Japanese Friendship Garden
May 29, 2010

The Connect: Introduced through friends and co-workers.

The Proposal: Victoria anticipated the proposal coming, as they had planned a dinner at a 5-star restaurant later in the week. Matthew surprised her as he grabbed her with no makeup on and in her gym clothes as he convinced her to grab some food from Whole Foods. He had packed blankets, extra warm clothes and lots of other foods and drinks for a romantic picnic. Victoria was shocked he had planned this all and had no clue it was coming. Matthew told her a story of how he knew she was the one, she can’t remember the exact words but saw a sparkling diamond ring and realized he must have asked her, so of course she said yes!

The Celebration: They chose a late afternoon ceremony at the rustic St. Francis Chapel in Balboa Park. They then moved to the tranquil environment of the Japanese Friendship Garden for the cocktail hour and reception which was decorated with olive satin belly bars, accented with coral peonies and organic stones, origami birds and crystal jewels dangling from the trellis. The guests then moved to dinner tables beautifully adorned with mocha and light sage linens, tall and short birch branch filled vases with complimenting coral peonies, white orchids and candles. The venue glowed as the guests enjoyed themselves and danced into the evening hours.

Victoria’s Advice: “With all the planning, don’t neglect your relationship and make sure your mate knows the real importance is your wonderful life together after the party.”

Ingredients:

CEREMONY VENUE St. Francis Chapel

RECEPTION VENUE Japanese Friendship Garden

COORDINATOR Fun with Jack, Bradley Snyder

OFFICIANT San Diego Minister, Rev. Grant Daversa

PHOTOGRAPHY Love Art Photography (formerly AP Studios)

GOWN Mona Amie Bridal

MEN’S FORMALWEAR Gentleman’s Tux Club

FLORIST & LINENS Fun with Jack

CATERING TK&A Custom Catering

CEREMONY ENTERTAINMENT Sacha Boutros

RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT DJ Johnny Sanchez

CAKE Cake

INVITATIONS Nic Roc Designs

HAIR & MAKE-UP Flora Wade

JEWELRY Tiffany & Co. and Leo Hamel

RENTALS & LIGHTING Fun with Jack

TRANSPORTATION Five Star Tours