Beauty and the Feast
Ashley McGarity and Mark Cook
May 21, 2011
Glamour and romance were at the top of the list when Ashley McGarity and Mark Cook celebrated their wedding at Villa Siena last May.
"I was looking for a romantic venue with an old world feel," says Ashley. "When I saw Villa Siena, it reminded me of my summer trip to Italy and I fell in love with the location."
White chairs, an aisle runner strewn with white and pale pink rose petals and seven attendants on each side awaited the couple in the courtyard, where they exchanged vows. "Flowers were everywhere," beams the bride. "My favorite flower arrangement was in the stone fountain, with white hydrangea, white and blush roses, snapdragons, and cascading green amaranthus." Ashley's gown, with its dramatic ruffled skirt, was complemented by a cathedral-length veil and a bouquet of roses. The flower girl announced the bride's arrival with a vintage style sign created by the father of the bride.
"When the ceremony ended, everyone went inside to enjoy our signature French martinis, cucumber-lemon-mint vodka spritzers, and gourmet appetizers," says Ashley. While guests mingled, they took advantage of the photo booth to record the fun evening.
The mahogany-paneled walls and opulent decor of the grand ballroom was enhanced by the overflowing floral arrangements, placed in silver urns on tables covered with custom linens. The couple's wedding cake, a stunning five-tiered confection in pearl fondant, was in perfect harmony with the romantic nature of the celebration.
While the wedding feast was enjoyed by all, guests were also treated to a gourmet coffee and tea bar, a dessert buffet, and late night snacks. Recalls the bride, "My mom and I created special 'love' boxes with a thank you note that read 'hugs and kisses, Ashley & Mark' that were filled with chocolate hugs and kisses." In addition, guests were treated to a substantial parting "snack" of Chicago dogs, chips and bottles of coke in charming takeout boxes.
Location:
Villa Siena
Photographer:
Vicki Lynn Photography
Floral Design:
Blume Events LLC
Invitations:
Signatures Invitations and Gifts
Entertainment:
Encore Quartet, Ray the DJ, A2Z Photobooth
Cake:
Piece of Cake
Linens:
GBS Linens
Bridal Gown:
Iris D |
