1. Real Weddings

Lila & Mike: An Elegant Wedding in Newcastle, WA

On Christmas morning, Lila opened a gift from her honey to find... a glove-compartment tool kit. THE BRIDE Lila Ra, 28, interior designer THE GROOM

On Christmas morning, Lila opened a gift from her honey to find... a glove-compartment tool kit. THE BRIDE Lila Ra, 28, interior designer THE GROOM Michael Bray, 32, 3-D artist THE DATE September 27 Underwhelmed as she was, Lila gamely listened as Mike explained all the different tools it held and opened all of the compartments. Imagine her surprise when one of the last pockets held an engagement ring!

Lila chose a white, silk-satin gown by Jim Hjelm Couture that featured crystal embellishments at the bustline and at the empire waist.
The Couple
Lila and Mike exchanged vows beneath an open tent on the Prestwick Terrace of the Golf Club. They kept the decor clean and simple. I didn't want to take away from the view, since that's a huge part of the appeal of having your wedding at the club, Lila says. For the couple, having a friend of the family preside was the most special part of their ceremony -- their officiant was the father of the groom's best man at his own wedding.
Lila carried a bouquet of lavender cymbidium orchids, white mini calla lilies, white roses, privet berries, and hydrangeas.
Lila and Mike cut a four-tier cake with layers of German chocolate with mocha filling and white chocolate with berry filling, iced with cream-cheese frosting.
After the ceremony concluded, guests enjoyed a sunset cocktail hour on the patio before heading inside for dinner. For the reception, the club ballroom had been decorated with ivory, white, and cream hues predominating. Some tables showcased potted cymbidium orchid plants while others held floating orchids in oversize brandy glasses accented with candles. Larger arrangements of calla lilies bloomed at the foot of the head table, which sat before a great bay window showcasing views of the golf course and of the city, which lit up as the evening went on.