In West Covina, there is a little historical museum called Hurst Ranch. Typically, they host wedding receptions inside their main building. However, on this beautiful September evening, Heather and Michael chose to have their wedding under the stars and between the trees in the courtyard nestled amongst the barn and buildings. I met Heather and Michael for the first time at this very spot back in June, where they told me their vision was to create a “dinner party” type atmosphere with dancing. I suggested a floor plan that helped them create the intimate, personal feel they were going for and over the next few months, they picked out the perfect soundtrack of songs to make their wedding day as personalized as can be
The ceremony took place directly next to the reception area in the small garden. Their good friend officiated the wedding, and after the kiss, Heather and Michael donned sunglasses and strutted back down the aisle to “You Make My Dreams Come True” by Hall and Oats. Their guests were then treated to a fantastic live Mariachi to celebrate their Mexican American heritage. As the evening progressed, the guests felt relaxed and at ease while eating dinner, having their silhouettes cut out by a talented artist, and enjoying a nice summer night. Once the dancing began, everyone got out on the floor to join in the party.
If there is one word I would use to describe Heather and Michael, it would be unique. They wanted to add some personal touches to their wedding. The songs they picked out for the formalities were outstanding, fun, meaningful choices. For the Bouquet/Garter toss, they created a Bouquet and Garter of lottery tickets. We had fun calling up all the ladies and all the men (instead of just the single ones.) I even suggested doing a “Selfie Dance” so their friends and family members could take photos with them while dancing. As we drew closer and closer to the music cut off, a couple of Heather’s friends came up to me to request one final song that was “Heather’s Song”. When it came time for just “one more song,” I played “Toxic” by Brittany Spears, much to Heather’s surprise, and everyone joined in to dance like the Princess of Pop.
Nights like this are made so much better when you work with a great staff of professionals who are all there for one reason…to make the Bride and Groom’s night the best it can be. The photographers Jenn and Pawel, the staff with Bashful Butler Catering, the security at Hurst Ranch, and the amazing wedding coordinator Crystal Brooker (our event planner) all helped put together the perfect evening for Heather and Michael.
Dave’s recommended vendors from this wedding included:
- Hurst Ranch Historical Foundation – www.hurstranch.com
- Bashful Butler Catering – www.bashfulbutler.com
- Jenn & Pawel Photography – www.jennandpawel.com
- Mariachi Ambiente – www.FB.com/MariachiAmbiente
- Crystal Brooker Event Planner – www.classyandsassyeventplanning.com