An Intimate Vintage Wedding at Bella Collina in Montverde, Florida

After four years of dating, Michael Burgos (29, and a wedding cinematographer) surprised Michelle March (31 and a wedding photographer) by proposing in a park near their home. “I honestly have no idea what he said,” says Michelle. “I couldn’t believe it was happening and when he took out that blue box, I just about passed out.” The couple had a legal ceremony within five months followed by an intimate vintage-inspired wedding at the Bella Collina 17 months from when they became engaged. The couple worked with Peplum Events and Design to assist in the planning process. As a wedding photographer, Michelle fell in love with the venue after shooting a wedding there. But, everything was based on whether or not their Old English sheepdog, Joy, could attend. “She’s so special to us and we couldn’t imagine her not being a part of this,” says Michelle. Her and Michael’s pet was included in the wedding as both their flower girl and partial inspiration for their decor. Juliet Grace Design created a custom invitation suite and family crest for the couple, which included their dog surrounded by a halo of red flowers. A red color scheme was reflected throughout their celebration. Michelle and Michael's ceremony was decorated with a white vintage fireplace mantle, simple exposed wood benches as well as rose petals and eucalyptus spread along the aisle. “We wanted something that was very personal to us, but organic and handmade,” says Michelle. “We wanted it to all look elegant, but comfortable and a bit rustic.” The reception reflected this notion with mixed vintage chairs in different hues, blush chiffon table runners, eye-catching cranberry candle sticks in brass holders and lush floral arrangements. The couple’s centerpieces included king protea, eucalyptus, garden roses and dahlias in shades spanning from blush to cranberry. Michelle and Michael took their first dance to “Come Rain or Come Shine” by Ray Charles. “We wanted a song that felt honest about what being in a relationship is like and still beautiful and heartfelt,” says Michelle. Each guest had a personalized hand-tied box of macaroons and was given the opportunity to have a caricature drawn as their wedding favors.