Published: November 15, 2011
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I had the honor to be a bridesmaids and wedding planner for two of my best friends, Donald and Amber. Amber, the bride, is one my most artistic, talented and creative friends. She currently has her own company called Bambu Earth, where she makes all of her own organic scrubs, lotions, and laundry detergent. She also painted the picture that was displayed at my marriage proposal. Knowing how personal Donald and Amber wanted to make their wedding and with Amber’s creative skills I knew it would be amazing!
It took place at Bandy Canyon Ranch in Escondido, Ca. This venue that has filmed many movies was a unique and incredible venue. The empty pallet allowed Amber and Donald to paint her wedding how they wanted. Their colors were brought in by each bridesmaid wearing a different color dress to the guys wearing matching Jack Purcells of the dress color of the bridesmaids they walked with. There was a rainbow of colors: yellow, purple, green, teal, light blue, navy blue, tan, and pink. My favorite part of the ceremony was they chose to have each groomsmen and bridesmaid carry a rock down the aisle to place in a circle that Amber and Donald would stand in while they got married. Each bridal party member wrote a word they hoped for them for their marriage. Amber’s Dad carried the last rock and closed in the circle once he handed Amber to Donald, there was many tears to say the least!
The reception was 20 feet away surrounded by an old adobe building and much greenery and hills. Amber dutifully collected old bottles and cans during their engagement for the centerpieces. Her Dad found wood planks they he painted with a dark top coat. The planks were placed in the middle of the long table with the old bottles on top with flowers coming out. Mason jars and tea lights fit into between the bottles. Silverware was placed inside mason jars with name assignments on chalk boards on the jar. The final touch was Amber’s famous homemade soap wrapped in pieces of colorful fabric.
Their guests grubbed on Phil’s BBQ, finished the night by eating homemade cupcakes and cake. We all danced the night away with a send off full of light up hats! The wedding felt like everyone had known each other forever. The handmade elements, left a comfortable yet one of a kind feel. My frist favorite part of the day was when I led Amber and Donald to take a picture before the wedding. They didn’t see each other but stood on opposite corners and held hands for the picture. Donald slipped Amber a card after they were done. My second favorite part was seeing the way Amber and Donald looked at each other all night as husband and wife. It was a perfect day, and I made it through being a wedding planner and bridesmaid. I even avoided stepping on a snake. This wedding was one to remember!
Congratulations Donald and Amber!
Love,
