1. Real Weddings

Stephanie & Ulises: A Traditional Wedding in Dallas, TX

Stephanie actually overlooked Ulises when they had Spanish class together in high school, but Ulises sure noticed her. Still, he waited more than four

Stephanie actually overlooked Ulises when they had Spanish class together in high school, but Ulises sure noticed her. Still, he waited more than four years to actually talk to Stephanie; the two were reintroduced through a mutual group of friends. The Bride Stephanie Hain, 27, administrative assistant The Groom Ulises Torres, 28, network analyst The Date September 27 They became close after talking to each other about previous breakups and helping each other get through their latest failed relationships. Then on Thanksgiving in 2005, Ulises finally mustered up the courage to kiss Stephanie, and their friendship turned into a relationship. Less than two years later, Ulises couldn't wait any longer to propose, so he popped the question on his birthday.

The two-layered, hexagonal cake wasn't exactly what the couple had envisioned, but they received multiple compliments from guests throughout the night on its design.
Modern table numbers with a monogram designed by the bride showed guests where to sit. Votives surrounded each table number to make it stand out (and easier to read!).
Black ribbon and an edible version of the couple's monogram decorated the four-tiered, fondant cake.
In case of happy tears, Stephanie carried a lace handkerchief embroidered with her and Ulises's initials and their wedding date.
The Invitations
Stephanie made the cards the day before the wedding (talk about pressure!) by printing guests' names on paper similar to what was used for the table numbers.
The Reception
Votives in varying heights and square arrangements of hydrangeas and other colorful blooms sat on top of a patterned table runner that helped inspire the monogram design.
The Exit
Stephanie filled 200 cubed vases with baby's breath and tied them in black ribbon for guests to take home. The only problem? Their large size made guests think they were decorations instead of thank-you gifts, so the couple had 100 left over the next day.
As part of their gifts for being in her wedding, Stephanie gave each bridesmaid a different cross, which she incorporated into the bouquet wraps.
Stephanie's three bridesmaids and her mom, who was also her matron of honor, chose their own long black dresses by different designers.
The Reception Decor
Stephanie's mom insisted on having ceremony flowers, even though the bride didn't want them. Stephanie had just one request: Don't make them look like funeral sprays! The tall glass bulb vases filled with orchids, hydrangeas and rose paves ended up being her favorite flowers of the day!