I met Jenise, her mom and Ralph's mom at Jungle Island for our walk-through when she visited Miami in late January. We connected immediately and were corresponding at all times from there on. There had been some issues and several changes with the Venue that made Jenise feel less than confident. I made sure I knew as much as possible about their Wedding plans to be ready to make decisions.
Jenise & Ralph planned for a beautiful Tropical themed Wedding with an outdoor Ceremony followed by an outdoor Reception in Lakeside Cafe Terrace. Since Miami's weather is totally unpredictable, we had a back-up plan that I wanted to leave just as that. We were hoping for perfect weather but it rained on and off the Day of the Wedding so the back-up plan had to be implemented.
The Ceremony took place in the Arboretum Ballroom and best efforts were made to make it look as nice as possible since its original location -The Lover's Perch- was surrounded by beautiful scenery of all kinds of trees and a nice waterfall.
Harpist Deborah Fleisher was hired for the Ceremony and Officiant Eddie Rodriguez pronounced Jenise & Ralph Husband and Wife. After the Ceremony, guests were guided downstairs to the Cocktail Hour right outside Jungle Island's Cafe.
Dj Steven from Vision DJ's played some lounge music while guests mingled and enjoyed some hor d'oeuvres and cold drinks on the covered terrace. A DIY Cardbox was displayed on the Gift table along with floral arrangements also made by the Bride. The Cocktail tables centerpieces were cylinders filled with mini white orchids and a floating candle.
Jenise & Ralph took some pics around Jungle Island and then joined their guests for the last 15 minutes of the Cocktail. Inside the Cafe, the Reception was set-up and the surroundings were camouflaged by lots of plants rented by Jungle Island. As soon as guests walked in, they found the Sign-in Guestbook with Engagements pics of the couple and their Escort cards. These were made with frames painted in the colors of the Wedding.
The tables had turquoise crinkled overlays provided by the Bride and silver charger plates. The Centerpieces were DIYed by the Bride and her mom with elegant callas in small cylinders decorated with raffia. The favors were pastries baked by the Bride (she rocks!) in green favor bags with blue ribbons. On the place settings, little Photo share cards were displayed for guests to upload their pics of the night and share with the newlyweds online. The buttercream Cake was made by Edda's and decorated with mini green orchids.
Jenise & Ralph did not want any formal introductions, so they entered the Reception along with their guests and as soon as everyone was seated the DJ called them to the dance floor for their First Dance. Then, Jenise dance with her dad and Ralph with his mom at the same time.
After the dances, it was time for the Toasts. Ralph's sister and Maid of Honor gave her speech first followed by Jenise's brother and Best Man, who had everyone laughing. Dinner was served right after and took longer than estimated but the DJ hit it off with party music and guests were on the dance floor all night! Flip-flop baskets were brought out for comfort and guests were loving them. :)
I had a great time coordinating this Wedding and I'm glad that despite rain, everything still came out beautiful and most importantly Jenise, Ralph and their families really enjoyed themselves. Linda, mother of the bride, was great to work with!
Best wishes Jenise & Ralph in your future together. It was a pleasure to be a part of your memorable Day!
