Julia and Nick’s pink and gray garden wedding at the gorgeous Marie Selby Gardens in Sarasota, Florida was everything that they wanted- romantic, intimate, and unique! Drawing inspiration from their lush outdoor venue, Julia’s vision was to incorporate organic elements in with a romantic style. Unique flowers & centerpieces by Events in Bloom, a 3-tiered “naked” cake, and the most unique bridal bouquet I’ve ever seen are just a few of the details of this Sarasota wedding that you do not to miss. Lucky for us, Renee Nicole Photography was present to capture Julia & Nick’s wedding day as they celebrated with their nearest and dearest, and we cannot wait for you to see!
What (or who) helped you most in your planning process and/or on your wedding day?
Renee Rodgers helped me tremendously, she suggested several of the vendors that I used. I am so Thankful that I stumbled upon her on Etsy.com for the invitations. She and I started talking and she advised me she did photography too and I was set! She seriously helped me through panic moments and was really caring throughout the entire time beginning to end. I also received a lot of help from my friends and family. My girlfriend Allison Bungert helped with the table numbers and the signs that we used and since I did not have a wedding planner another friend Jackie Manchester helped set up and make sure everyone had what they needed.
Our Caterer John at Zest Catering was phenomenal. They created a custom menu for us we wanted Southern inspired foods with a twist! Zest also did our Linens and lighting along with the place settings. I don’t know what I would’ve done without them they really helped pull everything together too.
What was the most important thing to you when deciding who to work with for your wedding?
We really wanted vendors who got “us” and that we felt comfortable around. I felt like meeting Vendors was like you were going on a first date. Lol !!! We pretty much knew within minutes if we had a good vibe with them. It was really important to not feel like just another couple.
What was your inspiration for your wedding details and/or design?
I’m not usually a very girly girl but for some reason I was really drawn to Romantic and girly things when I was looking at ideas. Our theme was Organic Romantical :) I love anything natural looking and was Very drawn to pinks and Grey has become an obsession of mine so naturally that’s how we found our colors. Linen, Blush and Grey.
It was very important for us to feel like we were in our own back yard and we threw a way bigger and fancier party!! I always thought I would get married on the beach but when we went to beach venues it didn’t feel right. We walked into Marie Selby and I almost started crying (little did my fiancé know and plus its so unlike me).
It was so insanely beautiful everywhere I turned I couldn’t believe it AND it was on the water. It felt like we were in our backyard on the water. Perfect!
What was your favorite thing about your wedding?
Turning the corner at the Ceremony and hearing At Last by Etta James while walking with my Dad to meet Nick. That was the most insane feeling! I’m sure everyone probably says that but everything else went by like a blink and this moment felt like it was in slow motion. Plus, I hadn’t seen anything so taking it all in, the view and everyone there it was just breath taking. Also my flowers!
What is your best piece of advice for other brides?
Really stick to your dream and your vision and find vendors who will help you achieve it. It IS possible. They are out there. Oh AND Breathe!
It’s over in a blink – I was told take a moment and step back and watch with your new Husband – that’s a great moment watching everyone enjoy all of your hard work and celebrating you!
Oh I just love Julia’s advice- it makes me want to get married all over again so I can heed her wise words! And her bouquet… how absolutely amazing is it?!
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