At the end of the night, as the DJ broke down his equipment and the guests trickled out of the ballroom, Nathan traced his new Rolex — a gift from his best man, Davian, with his finger. “Davian says a watch is a man’s most important accessory. It sets the tone.” Nathan sighed and added with a thoughtful smile, “I’ve got a lot to live up to.”

He wasn’t just talking about the Rolex. He was talking about Melinda, his stunning bride and best friend, who had been toasted by her matron of honor, Liz, as the kindest, most giving person you could hope to meet. He was talking about Davian, his almost-brother and business partner. He was talking about the beautifully blended family he and Melinda brought together.

And if their joyful, tear-filled wedding day — which was every bit as beautiful as their engagement session the month before — was any indication, both Melinda and Nathan know that what they share is something to be treasured. It’s a love worth living up to.Wasn’t Melinda’s Maggie Sottero gown just incredible? And how about their wedding programs that they designed themselves? I might be a little biased because they reminded me a little of our own branding, but I was in love with their programs!Nathan left Melinda the sweetest little blue box from Tiffany’s . . . with a ring inside, of course.Meanwhile, Nathan and the guys were over at Rosen Shingle Creek getting ready for the big day.From the Louis Vuitton shoes to the real bow ties — which they worked hard to learn to tie — these guys knew how to do it big for a wedding! Then came Davian’s gift, and Nathan simply couldn’t keep it together after that.
Once everyone was ready, we all headed to Windermere Country Club, which had also been the site of Melinda and Nathan’s super-romantic engagement session. Their wedding day was even more romantic. They saw each other for the first time on the balcony for their first look. And some more tears.They got all their kiddos together for a family portrait. And I melted.Their ceremony took place on the golf course, overlooking the pond on that warm March afternoon. Beautiful doesn’t even begin to describe it.But before Melinda, Nathan, and their families walked down the aisle, they were chauffeured to the ceremony in luxury. Both Nathan and Melinda were so excited to send their parents and grandparents out to the ceremony in a classic Rolls Royce and antique Cadillac.I’m such a sucker for sweet moments during weddings. This ceremony had so many.Married!As the sun sank along the horizon, we slipped out to the golf course with the newlyweds. It was the magic hour, and magic is exactly what happened.Oh my goodness, you two!It was also the perfect opportunity for some more pictures with their best friends. Who definitely know how to work the camera as effectively as the bride and groom!I would have happily photographed them until the sky was dark, but we had a reception to celebrate!
The ballroom looked incredible, with draping, gorgeous damask linens, a bedazzled chocolate fountain — and a cake so beautiful, Danny didn’t even realize it was something edible at first. The best part about the cake? Nathan dreamed up the design. (Oh, and the other best part was that it tasted amazing!)The party got underway with the first dance — and no one was watching more eagerly than the kids.Then came lots more dancing and fun!I can’t ever get enough of kids at weddings! Or adults having as much fun as if they were kids again!But the best part came next. . . .The dance floor was packed most of the night!
The party charged on until midnight, when Melinda and Nathan shared one last dance . . . and then headed off to their last-minute-change-of-plans-mini-moon to Southern California.To see even more from their beautiful wedding, check out their slide show below and visit their + site.

Melinda and Nathan — we know what comes next for you two is going to be just as spectacular as your wedding day! We were so grateful to be there as you became husband and wife. You two are so greatly blessed, and your family is such a joy. Savor these first few weeks of marriage . . . and look forward to that belated Bora Bora honeymoon this summer!

Vendors:
Venue: Windermere Country Club
Bride’s Gown: Maggie Sottero
Bride’s Shoes: Louis Vuitton
Matron of Honor’s Dress: Monique Lhuillier
Hairstyling: Casey Cheek of M3
Makeup: Rali Koleva of M3
Groom’s and Best Man’s Tuxedo: Black by Vera Wang
Groom’s and Best Man’s Shoes: Louis Vuitton
Groom’s and Best Man’s Bow Ties: Calvin Klein
Groom’s Watch: Rolex
Flowers: Windermere Flowers & Gifts
Cake: Party Flavors
Catering: Windermere Country Club
DJ: CRB Entertainment
Lighting: CRB Entertainment
Draping and Linens: Sun, Moon & Stars Decorations
Chocolate Fountain: RW Chocolate Fountain Rentals
Photo Booth: Click!
Harpist: Jan Jennings
Venue Planner/Coordinator: Jennifer Weller
Photography: Laura Yang Photography

~ Laura + Danny