It was January of 2016 when Donna first reached out to me. She, Duy, and myself finally met in June of that year. They took me to see the Oak Park Community Center, which by itself was one of the nicest community centers I have seen. We discussed their vision and how they wanted a rustic and simple wedding where everything was wrapped in burlap. But above and beyond that, we discussed how they wanted their guests to forget everything else and enjoy themselves. When the magic night finally arrived, the fantastic team of Frank and his crew transformed the center into an elegant wedding venue anyone would be proud of. The entire room was wrapped in white drapery, Jonathan from DJ Party Rentals did an amazing job lighting the place up, and Donna’s friend and coordinator Teresa made sure every single little detail was absolutely perfect.
Before we let the guests inside, Donna and Duy had a moment to take it all in and see their masterpiece of a room in all its glory. Their photographers and videographers from Tim and Co. captured this moment of reflection, as they did every moment of the evening with a team of shooters who were everywhere! (As well as some amazing drone footage to boot.) We lined up the bridal party (sponsors and all) out in the hall and brought them all in dancing. Donna and Duy took one peek inside the room as everyone rose to greet them and entered their reception. The guests were having so much fun and continued to enjoy themselves all night. Between the bar, the photo booth, and the dance floor, there was always a ton of energy and a big group of people.
I’m always on the lookout for new and interesting things brides and grooms decide to do at their wedding. Donna and Duy had the idea to go along with their rustic theme and placed a bucket (like a milking pail) in the center of the dance floor for their money dance. (Donna REALLY didn’t want money pinned on her dress!) It was a clever alternative and a great way to save a gown. It was a fun money dance too…even Donna’s dad, Nick, got into the groove. When it was all over, I had to think back at how lucky I am to count Donna and Duy amongst my happy client and now friends. I am so happy I got to be a part of their magical day.
Dave’s recommended vendors for this wedding are:
- The Oak Park Community Center (and Frank Martinez and his crew from Luxury Events…the in-house rental/décor/pretty much everything there company.) – www.luxuryevents4less.com
- Lighting by Jonathan Sacido from www.djandpartyrentals.com
- Tim and Co Photography and Videography – www.timandcoproductions.com
- Teresa Arriza (Their amazing coordinator) from www.BestFriendEvents.com