Sparkly Urban Garden Wedding: Amanda + Matt

graffiti art

Amanda + Matt are both artistic, creative types who are deeply inspired by juxtaposition in art, design + architecture. And the idea of unlikely things being thrown together to create something beautiful inspired their ruggedly-refined summer wedding at LA’s Marvimon House. In an effort to deeply connect with each other and their guests as they exchanged their vows, they had a heartfelt, unplugged ceremony with the venue’s incredible succulent wall providing a perfect urban garden backdrop. And I love all of the bold + playful details they incorporated into their handcrafted reception – like gold-dipped mason jars, engraved wood table numbers + chunky sequined table runners. Such a pretty day, filled with lots of incredible ideas to inspire all of you newly engaged couples!

From Amanda, Los Angeles itself is full of contrasts, the most obvious being that it is a huge metropolis in the desert. I pulled inspiration from my parent’s succulent filled backyard, the scrub brush and concrete surrounding my apartment building, and the glittering ocean waves. I love adding sparkle to otherwise very subdued and classic styles. In the end I was referring to our style as “Urban Garden” or “Contemporary California”. I expressed that theme by using lots of unrefined materials (wood, linen, metal, glass) and added pops of color, texture, and sparkle throughout the decor and even on our stationery.

Big thanks to Let’s Frolic Together for the beautiful photography and congrats to Amanda + Matt on an amazing day!

teal and yellow invitation

gold heels

marvimon

ceremony program

unplugged wedding

marvimon ceremony

Our Favorite Memory From The Wedding

One of my favorite moments is the ring warming during our ceremony. We had all of our guests pass our rings from one to another, and as they held them for a second, we asked them to say make a wish, or bless them with their love. From that day on, our rings hold in their precious metals something even more precious—the love and support of the people who mean the most to us. It took a few minutes to pass through all 100 of our guests hands, but it was so moving to watch. And so many of our guests really felt honored to be part of our ceremony in that way.

marvimon ceremony

marvimon ceremony

marvimon ceremony

wedding party


Loving these images of Amanda + Matt, with their bridal party, and the amazing LA skyline in the background!

teal shoelaces

mint bridesmaids

bride and groom

bride and groom

coral tie

envelope guest book

cocktail hour

horseshoe

reception


Teals, aquas, corals + gold defined the reception space + little planted succulents served as escort cards + fun keepsakes for guests!

potted plant favor

veggie plant

city table names

marvimon

desserts

Our Musical Choices

Processional: Bridesmaids: Imagine – John Lennon; Bride: Here Comes the Sun – The Beatles

Recessional: Wouldn't It Be Nice – The Beach Boys + One Love – Bob Marley

First Dance: Regina Spektor cover of John Lennon's Real Love

first dance


Don’t miss Amanda + Matt’s super fun stop-motion video by Stephanie Collins!

Our Advice To Those Planning Now

I had a wonderful experience planning my wedding. Thankfully there was no family or friend drama. Everyone came together and enjoyed putting on a great party with us. However, being a designer and a very creative person, I started with a very strong vision of what our day should look, feel, taste, and sound like. I had my heart set on a venue that was expensive, and for a while, it looked like it would be out of our budget. It was really disappointing and I had a hard time letting go, but it made me feel selfish and "bridezilla-y" to demand I get my way. Thankfully we took a second look at our budget and were able to cut other less important things. In the end it was about open, honest communication with my fiancée and our parents (who helped us finically) on what each of our priorities were. Then we were able to compromise and find common ground. Looking back, I couldn't imagine our wedding at a different venue. It was so perfect and I can't even remember those other details we cut. Going through that process was such an important thing for all of us. It brought us closer and taught us how to open up and work together. So I guess to sum it up, I would say be honest with the people who are helping you financially and with the planning. It's ok if something is really important to you, but be open about it and willing to compromise.

photography: Let’s Frolic Together // venue: Marvimon House Los Angeles, California // coordinator: East West Event Productions // stationery + event design: the bride, Amanda Habbershaw // florals: Clementine Floral Works // videography: Stephanie Collins // catering: Savour This Moment // dessert: Sprinkles Cupcakes // dj: The Markness // officiant: Eric Shwartz // dress: Saja // headband: Ban.do // shoes: Nine WestNike // hair + makeup: Self-done // bridesmaid dresses: Simple Dress // tuxes: Jean Yves // rentals: Orchid Party Rentals // bartending: Catered Cocktails

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