April and CJ’s Leu Gardens wedding was the perfect location for their Alice in Wonderland whimsical theme. From their garden ceremony to their tea party brunch reception, it felt like we had fallen down the rabbit hole of love.
My sweethearts’ story began a few years back when CJ and his friends happened to pop in the local Jason’s Deli for lunch. April at the time was working the checkout counter and as CJ’s friends moved along the line to checkout, they noticed the interaction and excitement between April and CJ. Well, as CJ’s best man reminded everyone in his toast at their wedding, CJ was completely CLUELESS! I mean seriously had no idea April was flirting with him. Of course being a good best friend, and now best man, he would not let CJ leave the sub shop until he asked April for her number.
Working up the courage, CJ walked up to the counter, asked April for her number, which she immediately handed over smiling. Flash forward a few years later, it was clearly the best little push his friends gave him, as the two were meant to be. While April had fallen for CJ’s eyes the moment she saw him, it was the way he loves her and how he tells her each and every day that has made a lasting impression on her. For CJ, he loves how April’s beauty radiates not only on the outside, but also on the inside. Her kindness and beauty is unsurpassed. Oh and of course, he couldn’t forget her “adorable little laugh” that he loves so much as well.
CJ’s proposal to April was the perfect way to start the New Year. Heading out for a date at Gaylord Palms and a fancy dinner afterwards, the two enjoyed a night out walking under the Christmas lights at the gorgeous hotel. As they walked along, CJ steered their conversation about how wonderful their relationship was and how much he admired April. Wandering upon a waterfall along their walk, CJ dropped to know knee and asked for April’s hand in marriage. April was over the moon with excitement and of course said “yes!”
From their engagement to their wedding day, it has been amazing to capture such beautiful memories of my darlings. Starting our morning bright and early, we met April at a nearby hotel for a few getting ready shots before heading over to Leu Gardens. Both in their respective getting ready suite, we captured CJ as him and his groomsmen put on their jackets and April putting on her dress.
Their ceremony shortly followed after we all arrived and took place in the iconic rose garden. The roses were in full bloom ranging from impactful reds to light and airy pinks. It was the perfect fairytale feel for their Alice in Wonderland themed wedding.
After their ceremony, we headed out in search of a shady cool spot for formal portraits with my couple’s family and wedding party. I love the whimsical backdrop of the deep forest greenery behind everyone combined with the light pastel blue dresses and grey suits of our wedding party – such a perfect contrast. Of course, newlywed photos soon ensued after as we went on a little adventure around the park.
April and CJ’s reception took place inside under market lighting in the ballroom. I was incredibly impressed by the detail in their décor from a variety of antique and vintage plates for their ‘tea party’ theme to table card numbers of fairytale nursery rhymes. Even their napkins matched the exact color in the bridesmaids’ dresses. I must say though, my absolute favorite detail of their reception had to be their wedding cake. Scenes from the Alice in Wonderland novel were depicted on each tear along with their first tear being a teacup. Guests could not get enough of the cake and kept visiting the table where it stood for pictures. We all agreed that while it looked delicious, the masterpiece was such a stunning work of art that it would be hard to not feel a little sad cutting into it. Truly, no detail went unnoticed.
From first dances to meet and greets with their family and friends, it was the perfect intimate setting for a special day. Wishing these two amazing individuals a beautiful life together!
Venue: Leu Gardens
Officiant: Al Sterling
DJ: Jeff Scott
Caterer: Puff N Stuff
Rentals: Orlando Party and Wedding Rentals
Cake: Bake Me a Cake
Dress Shop: Lauderdale Bride
Dress Designer: Sophia Tolli
Men’s Attire: Tux 45 Bucks
Ring Shop: Zales
Bridesmaid Dress Shop: David’s Bridal
