Tea and Wedding Ceremony at Grand Gimeno

The Powder Room and Parlor were buzzing with members of Nicole and Phillip’s wedding party. Champagne was popped and poured, hair and makeup were complete and tied were knotted just in time for the bride and groom’s first look in the courtyard breezeway. Nicole stepped out in her lace wedding gown and Phillip immediately smiled with the look of love in his eyes. The two exchanged sweet compliments and then joined their bridal party who were watching the interaction close by from behind closed doors. With group photos done and guests beginning to arrive, and wedding party hid away for the first event, the tea ceremony.

Close family entered the Foyer, signed Phillip and Nicole’s guest book, then watched as the bride and groom and both their families participated in a traditional tea ceremony. Once all the tea in Nicole and Phillip’s cups had been finished, everyone headed outside to the Olive Grove for the bigger ceremony where guests had already begun taking their seats. Floral pillars decorated the area between olive trees where the bride and groom stood in front of all their family and friends. The read personalized vows, exchanged rings, and sealed the ceremony with a kiss.

Filet and Wild Mushroom Wellingtons, Fried Chicken and Waffle Bites, Lemon Parmesan Artichoke Hearts, and Crab Cakes were available to snack on during cocktail hour while the bar was mixing and pouring the newlywed’s signature drinks, a Georgia Peach and Sex on the Beach. While guests mingled, the bride and groom snuck away for a few photos. Upon their return, it was time for dinner.

Inside, tables were draped in our Cambria linen and topped with white floral centerpieces. Once everyone found their assigned seats, Nicole and Phillip made their grand entrance and danced together for the first time as husband and wife. Afterwards, dinner was served. A menu of Vietnamese Braised Short Ribs and Honey and Ginger Glazed Salmon with Pear and Walnut Salad, Gochujang Brussels Sprouts, and Wasabi Mashed Potatoes was selected by the bride and groom with help from our Event Specialist, Casey. While everyone enjoyed their food, family and friends stood to make toasts. Laughs and tears were shared, and glasses clinked in the air as each speech ended. Nicole and Phillip thanked their guests for coming to celebrate then invited everyone to indulge in some cake for dessert and hit the dance floor. The evening ended with guests dancing with the bride and groom and showing off their best moves before heading home.

Venue: Grand Gimeno // Catering: Jay’s Catering // Photographer: Kristine & Charles // Coordination and Flowers: Beloved Events Co