1. Real Weddings

Brooke & John: A Pink Wedding in Aurora, OH

With cheerful floral arrangements in bright and pale shades of pink, Brooke Wells and John Costin’s wedding day exuded a garden feel -- even though th

With cheerful floral arrangements in bright and pale shades of pink, Brooke Wells and John Costin’s wedding day exuded a garden feel -- even though the entire event was held indoors. The BrideBrooke Wells, 26, dietician The GroomJohn Costin, 29, surgeon The DateMay 21 It was a rainy day in May when John suggested he and Brooke go to an outdoor garden and wander around. “I was wondering why he was so insistent on doing such an activity on such a miserable day!” she says. Little did she know that her boyfriend was planning to propose in a very special spot in front of a particular hydrangea bush. John’s brother was even supposed to be hiding in the bush to capture the moment on film. But unfortunately, when John dropped to one knee, he picked the wrong spot – and his brother was hiding too far away to pick anything up on tape. Luckily, Brooke still said “yes,” and the couple celebrated with a romantic dinner at a French restaurant later that night.

The four-tier white cake featured the couple’s monogram and a topper of iced flowers. The round cake stand was surrounded in light pink rose petals.
The Couple
Brooke’s three bridesmaids and maid of honor wore strapless satin floor-length dresses in pearl pink. The draping on the side of the dress was fastened with a brooch at the waist. The bodice of Brooke’s strapless A-line gown featured intricate beading and simple lines. During the ceremony, she wore a cathedral-length veil but changed into a fingertip-length for the reception. Her shoes were closed-toe with a champagne-glass-shaped heel.
The indoor ceremony took place in the sanctuary of a Presbyterian church, adorned with simple woodwork and detailing. Two floral arrangements of peonies decorated the altar. Every third pew was adorned with a large pink peony with a satin white ribbon.
Each guest received a box of Malley’s chocolates, a local favorite.
The groom’s love of ’80s music inspired the couple’s first dance to “Take My Breath Away” by Berlin. A fitting song, considering the nickname bestowed upon John by a co-worker, Maverick. “He even personalized his cell phone ringer to that song for whenever I call,” says Brooke.
Programs, designed by the bride and her sister, featured a simple “C” monogram and were constructed from white paper and light pink card stock tied with a pink ribbon.
The Accessories
Each guest table was decorated with a tall, thin vase full of light and dark peonies and white hydrangea.