I am so thrilled to finally be able to share this wedding with you all as I’ve had to keep it under wraps until the Exquisite Weddings issue it is featured in hit stands; now that it’s out it is game on (more on the magazine feature in a later blog post). So without any further ado- I present Melanie and Efren’s absolutely stunning tropical-fusion wedding. This was a labor of love since they had such an exquisite and unique vision; we definitely stepped outside the typical wedding decor ‘box’ to make it something so special and completely representative of them. A huge shout out to LaVonne of Adorations Botanical Artistry for her floral brilliance- the woman is a complete visionary and SO much fun to work with. Her team definitely carried out Mel and Efren’s wildest dreams- and then some. And of course we have Crissy (of Christine Farah Photography) to thank for the gorgeous photographs; I could not imagine a better fit for the lovebirds. Her energy made the say even better than it already was. On with the show…


You may ask- is this a dress? Or a work of art? Hard to tell, right? Oscar de la Renta makes my heart flutter.








And yet more works of art- I seriously almost keeled over when I saw the bouquets and boutonnieres LaVonne created. I mean really? I have yet to see anything top these in their artistic nature and beauty.


Pretty little details were in abundance that day.

And the piéce de resistance- their custom dark bamboo altar arbor. It was super important for every element of the day to exude the same vibrant energy that Mel and Efren do as a couple; I think this amazing creation definitely fits the bill. The structure featured a lush header of pavé style green spider mums, phalaenopsis orchids, and gloriosa lilies and to add to the whimsical nature- fully blossomed spider mums hanging from above. To die for!


The views of the bay were absolutely spectacular- across the water you can see downstown San Diego.


Pure joy as they danced- literally- back down the aisle as husband and wife.



Guests flew from as far as Japan to celebrate the occasion! The traditional kimonos these two women wore were gorgeous in their intricate detail and delicate fabrics.



The guests sat at a mix of round and long rectangular tables, with three different centerpieces showcased throughout the room. My favorite was this particular design featuring gloriosa lillies in individual spheres, all piled into a tall glass cylinder- although they were all amazing in their own right.



Mel and Efren’s first dance was definitely worthy of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ fame, and included a dramatic lift which the crowd (appropriately so) went WILD for.

Japan and the country’s culture played a role in the couples relationship- so they appropriately gifted guests with hand painted sake cups, and toasted with chilled sake at the beginning of the reception. Kampai!


Everyone- and I do mean EVERYONE- danced the night away. I don’t think the dance floor was less than packed the entire night!

The packed dance floor was definitely in big part due to the Disco Pimps who rocked the stage, complete with afros and 70’s attire.
A special thank you to the following fabulous vendors:
Christine Farah Photography
Young Video Productions
Adorations Botanical Artistry
Disco Pimps Band
Disco Friend
Higher Level Sound
Classic Party Rentals
Luxe Event Rentals
La Tavola Linen
Extraordinary Desserts
Broadway Booths
Pastor David Plank
Presidential Limo
Melinda Walker (hair)
Florence Pacho (make-up)
The team at the Admiral Kidd Club
























































by Kerrie
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