What a treat to see Elyse and Al’s wedding featured on Green Wedding Shoes this month! Their wedding took place at the lovely Rancho Valencia and was captured by Luna Photo. With our bride’s effortless style and our groom’s love for surf culture, we couldn’t help but pull from a palette of cool blue and aqua tones to create an organic, bohemian atmosphere. A custom ocean-inspired watercolor invitation suite by Lovely Paper Things set the eclectic seaside mood for guests weeks prior to their big day. Upon arriving, we asked friends and family to leave “a penny for your thoughts” by placing a handwritten note for the couple into a jar full of coins in lieu of a traditional guestbook. After a beautiful ceremony, Elyse and Al entered their reception with an amazing surprise salsa dance, a tribute to Al’s heritage. Teaming up with Backup Backdrops and Dear Darling Calligraphy, we had guests find their seating assignments with hand-painted agate coasters set amidst a backdrop of loose blooms, macrame, and an array of bohemian trinkets. The writing on the wall behind read, “In a sea of people my eyes will always search for you,” a sentiment to allude to sweet words Al shared with Elyse when they first began dating.  We loved collaborating with Lovely Paper Things and carrying the concept onto custom wood menus that were laser-cut into the shape of a human eye. Tables were adorned with brass-ringed napkins and metallic goblets from Hostess Haven, ornate chargers and gold flatware from Casa de Perrin, and lush floral arrangements by Oak and the Owl.  Reminiscent of Elyse’s and Al’s first date spent surfing, The 40 foot custom wall of watercolor agate ocean perched behind the head table though stole the show and made Al feel right at home in a sea of blue.  After a traditional Hora and dancing, guests were invited to live life to the fullest with delicious cake by Hey There, Cupcake  mixed with a variety of  Sweet Lydia’s mini desserts . As we look back on their beautiful day, we wish Elyse and Al a lifetime of sweet memories, “ever swimming next to each other.”