Preview: Michelle and Derek, All Saints by the Sea and Rancho Dos Pueblos, Santa Barbara

I don't typically post any of my own photos from weddings as I like to leave that to the professional photographers and their always much more amazing take on the day. After this past wedding however, I just can't resist. I have to share with you some of the details from the gorgeous and fantastic day I helped Michelle and Derek put together. Speaking of the newlyweds, how adorable are they?

Michelle's couture Rivini gown fit her personality perfectly- unique and fun while still being elegant

Guests started out on the front lawn of the house for cocktails and lawn games (bocce ball and croquet, to be specific)

Lounge furniture welcomed guests who wanted to sit and watch the fun and games

As guests walked to the back of the house for the dinner and dancing, these life-sized bird cages flanked the entrance to the massive lawn

Guests were treated to bottles of 1999 Dom Perignon as the champagne served for the toasts and throughout the evening

And then for the real fun- the team at White Lilac really outdid themselves with the decor and design for the event! Michelle and Derek had a very specific vision in mind, and they totally 'got' it. They incorporated bright colors and clean, crisp lines accented by centerpieces of whole lemons with just a few white orchids. So vivid and fresh!

For their favor a live succulent was set at each guests place setting for them to take home and replant

The fabulous head table with an 80 foot scrim (the screen behind the table) lit up at night with accent colors and the damask motif used throughout the wedding. The lights really began to show after the sun went down (you'll see later on...)

Michelle and Derek wanted to include pictures of their grandparents on their wedding days since they couldn't be with them to celebrate as they start their new life together. This was accomplished with a touching display that stood behind their gorgeous cake from The Cake Studio.

Isn't the scrim just fantastic! It really helped to define the space since the lawn was just ginormous

All the guests really came to have a good time and the party was underway in no time flat

Late night snacks whipped up by the chefs with Good Gracious included mini pizzas and little vegan milkshakes with soy cookies (delicious AND healthy!)

I am truly looking forward to the lovely and talented Kusha Alagaband's pictures from the day; and after this sneak peek, I am sure you are as well!!