1. Real Weddings

Enchanting Garden Wedding at Lord Thompson Manor in Thompson, Connecticut

It wasn't exactly love at first sight for Kate Cornelio (28, a training specialist for Connecticut Children's Medical Center) and Edward "Eddie" Dessu

It wasn't exactly love at first sight for Kate Cornelio (28, a training specialist for Connecticut Children's Medical Center) and Edward "Eddie" Dessureault (29, an ironworker for DC Welding Enterprises). In fact, when they met for the first time in middle school, Eddie enjoyed picking on her. "I would go home and tell my mom how much I hated him!" recalls Kate. Over time, however, their hatred cooled and they became best friends. "Our friends would always say that we would end up together, and one of us was always quick to respond with a comment about how and why it would never work out between us. Needless to say, they were right," says Kate. They started dating shortly after she graduated from high school and they've been together ever since. When it came time to plan their wedding, Kate says their inspiration came from wanting a unique wedding experience that represented both their personalities. Thanks to an enchanting color palette of purple, green and gray and stunning florals, Kate and Eddie seamlessly blended eclectic, rustic and vintage styles into a one-of-a-kind and truly romantic affair.

Silver Peep-Toe Wedding Shoes
Kate wore her side to the side with soft curls and a twisted back accented with a crystal, pearl and rhinestone hairpiece.
Kate carried a wild-looking, fresh-from-the-garden bunch of succulents, roses, veronica, purple lisianthus, ferns, scabiosa, calla lilies and anemones.
Eddie wore a single white succulent boutonniere.
Eddie wore a slate gray tuxedo with a platinum vest and a purple and black striped tie.
"We didn't have to do much to decorate the space because it comes equipped with a beautiful wrought iron pergola that is decorated with a chandelier," recalls Kate.
"Victoria did a spectacular job of creating a personalized and spiritual ceremony that really encompassed what was most important to both of us," says Kate. "Initially we did not think we wanted to write our own vows, but she encouraged us to and I'm so glad we did."
Kate's seven bridesmaids wore the same strapless, purple chiffon gown by Bill Levkoff with a strapless, sweetheart neckline and a ruched bodice. Her maid of honor stood out in a floor-length version, while the rest of the girls wore a knee-length style.
Kate wore a strapless chiffon and tulle fit and flare wedding dress with a sweetheart neckline, a ruched bodice and a rhinestone embellishment at the hip.
Lord Thompson Manor Wedding Venue
Low floral arrangements meant that guests could easily interact with each other during dinner.
Purple Wine Glasses Place Settings
Low Fern, Wicker Ball and Scabiosa Centerpiece
The centerpieces were an eclectic mix of local garden flowers including purple lisianthus, scabiosa, purple kale, veronica, dahlias, ferns, eucalyptus, mini green hydrangea, roses and gomphrena.
Pink Dahlia Terrarium Arrangement
"Love Song" by 311 First Dance Song
Wooden Favor Sign
Potted Succulent Wedding Favors