Jill + John wanted a timeless and classic wedding, yet with a bit of relaxed California edge. As they recently relocated to LA from New York City they had to celebrate their new digs! So planner + designer, The Joy Parade, made sure to infuse all the *golden* vibes into their day! To share their West Coast adventure with all of their friends + family, they invited everyone out to the Ebell Club in Long Beach, CA.
Jill shares Our main focus was to plan a great party and vacation, especially for our traveling guests. We made sure everyone had time to relax and explore Long Beach during the day, and then could dress up and mingle with each other during consecutive evening events. It gave us plenty of time to hang with everyone before the wedding, which took off the pressure to spend quality time with every guest on the big day!
Let’s see how it all came together in the photos captured by EP Love!
Peachy pinks + orange tones rounded out this sweet bouquet by Of The Flowers.
The sweetest embrace!
Jill rocked a modern gown by Sarah Seven, along with a hairpiece + shoes from BHLDN.
BAM! With bridesmaids in black + the groomsmen looking extra sharp, these bridal portraits look like they’re straight out of Vanity Fair.
Going against norms of carving out room blocks at multiple hotels, we picked only one hotel which had a good rate and had a ton of outdoor space. Everywhere you went, you bumped into your guests and it really felt like a weekend retreat with all of your favorites.
Of The Flowers enhanced the lush surroundings by adding tropical greenery and light floral elements. The ceremony piece they created invoked a waterfall feeling and was made from California Pepper Berry.
I remember waiting on the staircase with my father and the bridesmaids... Waiting for our turn to descend and walk down the aisle. We couldn't see what was happening, but with the music playing you could envision the groomsmen taking their spots up front. Then a huge cheer let out with clapping and whistles and I knew it was for John... I immediately teared up from the love and joy the room had for him as he walked down the aisle — it was overwhelming! I truly felt the gravity of what we were doing, the love we had, and how proud I was of him while listening to all our loved ones receive him so excitedly. Little did I know (until seeing video later on) that John was dancing down the aisle to ease his nerves!
The most helpful tip that we were given was that guests will be looking at your faces to gauge how the wedding is going; if you are having a good time — they will too. Things will definitely pop up as the day unfolds, but focus on each other and the love in the room and the day will be a success.
Processional: Bridal Party: Bittersweet Symphony by Vitamin String Quartet; Bride's Song: A Thousand Years by The Piano Guys
Recessional: Another Day of Sun from La La Land (Instrumental)
First Dance: Crazy Love by Van Morrison
Incorporating giants palms + tropical leaves, along with clear crystal glasses and gold flatware, the reception space took on a relaxed California glam sort of feeling… And we’re all about it!
Dripping in gold, this three-tier cake was crafted by Sweet and Saucy Shop.
Of course planning is stressful and you feel pressure to plan the most amazing event for your guests. After all is said and done, the only thing you will remember is if you had fun and loved the day. Do things that will make you both happy and don't feel like you need to follow every rule. As long as you both are laughing and having a blast, your wedding will be a hit!
We couldn’t agree more! Congratulations, J+J!!
photography: EP Love // venue name: Ebell of Long Beach, Long Beach, California, USA // event design: The Joy Parade // planning: The Joy Parade // florals: Of The Flowers // wedding dress: Sarah Seven // wedding dress boutique: Sarah Seven LA Salon // hairpiece: BHLDN // bride's shoes: BHLDN // bridesmaid dresses: Jim Hjelm Couture // getting ready robes: Plum Pretty Sugar // hair stylist: Kacee Geoffory // makeup artist: Kacee Geoffory // groom attire: The Black Tux // groom's shoes: The Black Tux // videography: Kavin Lindgren // paper goods: The Bride // catering: Tres LA // cake: Sweet and Saucy Shop // desserts: Sweet and Saucy Shop // tabletop rentals: Signature Party Rentals // furniture rentals: Signature Party Rentals // linen rentals: Mod Mix Studio // music: Dart Collective // officiant: Family Friend
Every single image is a dream!
Love the back of the dress and the peachy tone in the flowers. Stunning!
Such a cute couple, love the cake too !
♥♥
This venue and design is so so sweet