Tropical storms are a part of life in Florida. Enter Tropical Storm Debby, predicted to dump several inches of rain on the beach ceremony of this Missouri couple. Many couples just do not want to face the fact that it may just rain on their special day and a “Plan B” is a must. Flowers by Fudgie to the rescue! Owner Becki Creighton always has a watchful eye on the radar which prompted her to call this bride with Plan B all ready for her approval. The couple was thrilled and relieved that Becki had taken the initiative to prepare for the worst.
If the rain insisted on falling, the back up location of the John Ringling room at the Longboat Key Club would have to be transformed with help from our friends at Affairs in the Air. Soft draping along the wall provided a perfect backdrop for a bamboo arch with soft, romantic floral pieces on the top corners. The original plan called for a four post bamboo canopy on the beach but as space became an issue inside, creating an arch provided the same effect using less space. Chairs for 150 guest were adorned with hand tied clusters of fragrant white stock just as planned.
The bride was stunning as she walked the aisle carrying a perfect bouquet of all white peonies. Her attendants were dressed in strapless turquoise sundresses and carried hand tied bouquets of white hydrangea, ivory roses and white dendrobium orchids. White orchids also served as boutonnieres for the men.
A break in the wind and rain after the ceremony allowed the wedding party to don flip flops and head to the beach for some quick photos before joining guests at Longboat Key Club’s Harbourside ballroom for dinner and dancing. K & K Photography captured all the beauty…storm and all as evidenced by the photo gallery below. Thanks to Jeff and his team for providing such gorgeous shots!
Breathtaking is the only way to describe the beautiful arrangement on the foyer table. White phalaenopsis orchids sprayed from a ball of white hydrangea perched on a pilsner vase. Crystal chains hung from the arrangement and sparkled in the light. Inside the ballroom, an intimate lounge area was an inviting place to mingle and laugh over cocktails while the storm raged outside. Guest tables were a composite of 3 vases filled with creamy hydrangea and open ivory roses. Votive candles added a soft and cozy glow. Being a Sarasota florist, we truly appreciate couples who are flexible and can “go with the flow” when Mother Nature has other ideas. Holly and Jason, the rain may have been falling but the sun was shining from within the two of you. Congratulations!!