Cynthia and Paul met through a mutual friend at The University of Florida and after a long game of “hard to get” played by Paul, the two quickly fell in love. They maintained a long distance relationship for 2 years until they finally were able to reunite in Los Angeles. Paul surprised Cynthia with a sunset proposal at The Getty Museum overlooking the city. Soon after the proposal he whisked her off to dinner where she was surprised by her parents and her best friend who had flown in for the special day.
Cynthia is originally from the New Orleans area, where her parents still live, and wanted to throw an elegant black-tie affair at the beautiful Ritz-Carlton in downtown New Orleans. Cynthia has a very close knit family and her parents, Candy and Wally, were instrumental in the planning process. It often takes a village to plan a wedding and Cynthia and Paul’s wedding was no exception. Cynthia wanted a formal event while still throwing an over the top bash that The Big Easy is known for.
Seeking an authentic New Orleans experience, an elevated, over-the-top design elements, Cynthia and her mother, Candy, first approached the Sapphire Events team just after they had booked their ceremony and reception venue. Planning a courtyard ceremony in the Ritz-Carlton’s French Quarter property, the bride and her mother imagined an elegant, sophisticated celebration that represented their family’s dedication to hospitality and a good time.
I directed the creative process every step of the way, guiding Cynthia and Candy down the path of exacting detail and meaningful experiences planned for their seated dinner reception for 200 guests. Knowing that half of the guest list would be traveling to New Orleans from out of town, and coordinating with a bride on the west coast and a mother of the bride in my own time zone, I worked diligently to coordinate all aspects of communication throughout the year-long engagement.
Cynthia and Paul were married in a classic courtyard under a stunning lucite chuppah adorned with white orchids and roses. The ceremony was heartfelt, both the bride and the groom had their parents stand by their side throughout their vows. As soon as Paul broke the traditional glass and their guests proclaimed “Mazel Tov” to the newlyweds the real party began.
Cynthia and her mother had a chance to walk into the grand ballroom while the guests enjoyed cocktail hour in the foyer. Both ladies gasped as they walked in and Candy said she felt she had just entered a magical secret garden. the Ritz Carlton Lafayette Ballroom was completely transformed with florals in ivory, beige and gold hues and romantic candlelight that emanated throughout the space.
The highlights of the night included a mash up father-daughter dance that began with Celine Dion’s “Because You Loved Me” and ended hilariously with “Selfies,” as well as a heartfelt toast from the father of the bride who was so happy he could barely contain his tears of joy. This was a wedding for the books! Mazel Tov to the newlyweds!
