1. Real Weddings

Nicole & Luke: A Traditional Wedding in Ponte Vedra, FL

Nicole never imagined her parents would meet her future husband before she did. But that's exactly what happened when her cousin was visiting on a bus

Nicole never imagined her parents would meet her future husband before she did. But that's exactly what happened when her cousin was visiting on a business trip and brought one of his employees, Luke, to a family dinner. Luke sat through the entire meal completely unaware that he was chowing down with his future in-laws. After dinner, the group went to a local hangout and it was then that Nicole stopped by. In an attempt to act casual, Luke leaned back and reached for his beer, but then stumbled and knocked it over. What a first impression! he recalls. The Bride Nicole Brown, 27, real estate agent The Groom Luke Murphy, 27, medical sales The Date October 6 Luke may have looked clumsy then, but he was nothing but smooth when it came to proposing. On a visit to upstate New York on the Fourth of July, he took Nicole to a scenic lake and asked her to take a photo. When she turned around to show him the image on her camera, he was already down on one knee. Despite living in New England for the previous three years, the couple decided to marry in Florida where they met and Nicole was raised.

The eight bridesmaids carried bouquets with Estelle and terracotta roses, Makara orchids, magenta stock, tulips, mini calla lilies and green hydrangea wrapped in persimmon ribbon.
Nicole and Luke danced to Can't Take My Eyes Off of You by Franki Valli, and then the band Cloud 9 played a variety of oldies and classic rock for guests.
Nicole and two of her best friends made the ceremony programs, which were fans that hung from the back of each chair.
The couple cut a four-tiered cake with buttercream frosting, decorated with fresh flowers such as green hydrangea, Estelle roses and orange Makara orchids. Two tiers were yellow cake and fresh raspberries; the others were chocolate and chocolate cream.
Nicole and Luke had more than 200 guests, so alternating high and low centerpieces kept the 20 tables from overwhelming the room. Tall votive candles surrounded by a wreath of flowers in deep pink, purple, orange, blue and bronze hues were placed at some tables.
Since Nicole and Luke alternated high and low centerpieces throughout their reception tables, the taller arrangements featured cascading flowers.