Call me crazy - but I wanted to donate a wedding. Not just my services, but an entire wedding to a deserving couple who without assistance, could not have gotten married. The proposal happened on stage at a charity concert, as a surprise to the bride - who had no idea how much her life was about to change! He popped the question, she said yes and I walked onto the stage (very nervous to be in front of thousands) and announced that not only was her engagement ring a gift from Diamond Vault Jewelers, but her entire wedding was being gifted to her as a “thank you” for her military service and service to the community. Tears followed, and so did many planning meetings!
Their vision was elegant country, I found them the perfect venue - Rafter J Ranch Barn, which was so kind to donate their rural farm venue as the location for their big day. Every detail of the wedding was generously donated by a local vendor (please see complete list), and donations for the affair nearly reached $40,000. I was in awe of the generosity of our community in Sarasota - everyone was happy to be a part of the wedding and bring their creativity and services. As a homage to her military service, Karrie adorned dog tags in remembrance on her bridal bouquet- a detail that touched the heart of all the guests. The groom’s wedding band was a custom made piece by Diamond Vault and was forged out of metal from his fathers wedding band - another detail in memory of loved ones. It is not every day that I get to “give” someone a wedding - plan them, style them, yes - but the feeling of giving two amazingly sweet people the gift of a life together is something that I will always cherish. Without the unwavering support of the local wedding community this simply would not have been possible. Sarasota is a small town, but with the biggest heart! A Very Special Thank you to the vendors who donated their time and talents: Photography: Katelyn Prisco Photography Bakery: Cakes by Ron, Wonder Cakes Rentals: US Tent Lighting & Draping: Palacios Events Furniture & Decor: So Staged Florals: Victoria Blooms Favors: Just a Basket Case Venue: Rafter J Ranch Barn Stationary: Write on Sarasota Ceremony Music: Marc Manino Entertainment: Harry Wright Event Planning & Styling: Jennifer Matteo Event Planning Jewelry: Diamond Valut Catering: Morton’s Market Photo Booth: Be Glam Photo Booth Officiant: Grace Felice Beverages: Gold Coast Eagle Paper Artist: CC’s Paper Florals Garter: Mandaleno's tickle YOUR fancy |
Jennifer Matteo
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