Weddings are occasions when the bride and groom look to the future, but also pay homage to their past. Jonathan and Jasmine honored their culture and family with their chic country wedding. Jonathan is from Orlando and his bride Jasmine has family roots in Louisiana, so they knew they wanted to pay tribute to their origins by having a wedding with a southern feel. Jasmine honored the memory of her grandmother Ruby who raised her, by buying her bridesmaids breathtaking ruby bracelets. In addition, one of the couple’s favorite moments was when their officiant acknowledged their grandparents during the ceremony, and Jonathan’s grandmother Irene determinedly stood up from her wheelchair when her name was called. The couple carried the warm and inviting feel of their ceremony into their reception, which was a “glamorous version of a southern garden party,” complete with antique chandeliers, lace runners, and succulents that reminded Jasmine of her my grandmother’s favorite porch plants. Guests dinned on southern favorites: fried chicken and shrimp and grits. The couple danced their first dance to Prince’s “Adore,” and they continued to party the night away dancing with family and friends. Jasmine and Jonathan’s unique and charming wedding was photographed by ArtPhotoSoul Photographers and this wedding has been shared with our friends at Ebony.com.
- Bride: Jasmine Anderson
- Groom: Jonathan Taylor
- Wedding Date: July 27, 2013
Description of the Event:
From the Groom: The primary reason why we chose Orlando for our wedding was because, at the time, both of my grandparents (Daniel and Irene Aikens) were still living in Daytona Beach and could get to the wedding by car. A little over a month before the wedding, my grandfather passed away. He was such a positive role model for me and an all-around decent, kind, and loving person. I was devastated when he passed away. My grandmother is still here with us, and it was such a blessing to have her there to witness our marriage ceremony. I know she wished my granddad could have been there too – the day was bittersweet in that way.
From the Bride: Jasmine described the reception as a “glamorous version of a southern garden party. When we saw the southern menu from Big City Catering, that sealed the deal. Fried chicken – YES. Collard greens – OF COURSE. Shrimp and grits – ABSOLUTELY.” Jasmine credits her wonderful vendors and “amazing” wedding planner, RW Events, for making it happen.
Honoring their Past:
Jonathan and Jasmine both had strong connections to their grandparents, and made sure to honor them on their big day. Jasmine was raised by her grandmother, Ruby, and they were extremely close until she passed away in 2005. Johnathan appreciates Ruby’s influence on his wife and states: “Though I never had a chance to meet her, I know how much her grandmother meant to her and how so much of who she has become is because of the woman who raised her. Though it has been quite some time since her passing, the years have not faded the memories or diminished the strength her grandmother left her with. When I proposed to Jasmine, I told her how thankful I am to her grandmother for the wonderful woman she helped create. I will always be grateful to her for Jasmine.”
You Make Loving You so Easy
From the Groom… Jasmine is my best friend. She is loyal, loving, and a joy to be around. When we met, I was amazed by her beauty but also at the ease with which we got along. She is extremely supportive and I know that she will always be there for me. Whether it be new foods (sushi) or new pets (our cat Snickers), Jasmine is always encouraging me to try new experiences and I love that about her! She inspires me to be a better person and I am blessed to call her my wife.
From the Bride…Jonathan makes me laugh until I cry – he is hilarious. HILARIOUS. The first night I met him, I could not stop laughing and I have been laughing ever since. Beyond his sense of humor, he brings balance to my life. People who know me well know I can get stressed and worried and will work myself into a frenzy. He has this ease about him, even in the most stressful situations, that centers and calms me. Most importantly, when things are tough, you can count on him to be there. Jonathan is a faithful partner and a great friend who has given me so much love and support – I am so lucky.
Vendors
- Ceremony & Reception Venue: Cypress Grove Estate House
- Photography: ArtPhotoSoul Photographers
- Event Planning: RW Events
- Caterer: Big City Catering
- Floral Design: Lee James Floral
- Dress: Gabriella Bridal Salon New York
- Makeup: Brides Be Beautiful
- Men’s Attire: Absolutely Fitting
- Officiant: Sensational Ceremonies
- DJ: DJ Carl
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ArtPhotoSoul Photographers , RW Events and DJ Carl are members of The Coterie, Munaluchi’s exclusive wedding collective. T0 learn more about their companies, click here and here and here. Want to learn more about The Coterie? Click here to learn how to apply.
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