1. Real Weddings

Elyssa & William: A Destination Wedding in Miami Beach, FL

Since Elyssa Shapiro and William Hessler waited until their 16th dating anniversary to get married, they didn't feel the need for a supertraditional a

Since Elyssa Shapiro and William Hessler waited until their 16th dating anniversary to get married, they didn't feel the need for a supertraditional affair (they said no to a formal first dance or cake cutting, yes to passed preceremony mojitos and a DJ spinning from midnight until 4 a.m.). The BrideElyssa Shapiro, 35, producer on Live with Regis and Kelly The GroomWilliam Hessler, 37, building contractor The DateApril 16 Though Elyssa and William live in New York, they decided to get married at her father's vacation home on Palm Island in Miami Beach. We chose a Cuban theme to play up that aspect of the city, Elyssa says.

The Reception
The celebration surrounded a large swimming pool, which the wedding planner filled with bright rose petals for an exotic effect. The couple chose turquoise and fuchsia accents to create a subtle Latin vibe.
Traditional flower arrangements would have looked too dainty in comparison to the lush grounds, Elyssa says. Instead, they placed palm leaves in huge vases surrounded by hot pink orchids. The florist brought more color to the tables by dyeing the flower water deep turquoise and bright pink, while the pale blue tablecloths were made of the same fabric used to make guayaberas, the traditional Cuban men's shirts.
The women received pashmina wraps; each male guest found a domino set at his place setting with a note explaining the history and rules of the traditional Cuban game.
The Centerpieces
The Location
The Reception Decor
The couple departed from the Latin theme when it came time for dessert and chose a croquembouche, a classic French wedding cake that's essentially a tower of cream puffs.
The bride's Monique Lhuillier dress was two separate pieces -- a practical choice, since she's actually worn the top again. William's gold tie matched the sash on her ensemble. After dinner, the stylish bride changed into an ivory satin corseted Dolce & Gabbana number for dancing.