There’s something about a bold purple color palette and peacock feather motif that’s at once lavishly elegant and sophisticatedly contemporary, and Marie + Kevin’s dramatic wedding (captured by Travis Hoehne and planned by the FABULOUS Angel Swanson of Events of Love Splendor) really was all that and more.  Judging by these fab photos, chic California hotspot, Seven Degrees, was an idea venue for the couple’s outdoor ceremony and modish reception.  While I was initially struck by the bride’s richly-colored and be-feathered bouquet from Irvine Village Flowers (I’ve never seen a bridal bouquet quite like that before!), it was the classic lines and couture detailing of Marie’s Vera Wang gown that really had me wowed.  And wow, what a dress it was!  For those brides looking for a unique alternative to the usual single-flower boutonnière, check out the groomsmen’s dramatic feather + flower combo.  (Unfortunately, it may be a little harder snatching up the bridesmaids’ romantic lavender frocks, as the bride chose custom dresses made by her own mother!)  Cupcakes from Sabor y Cultura Café rather than a traditional wedding cake gave this ultra-cool, luxe affair just the right amount of personal flavor and flair.  I love Southern Weddings!  Do you?  Check out our latest contest and show us your love!

How did the two of you meet? Tell us your story.  We met in summer school while studying in the same astronomy class and lab group.  I would always try to race the other people in my lab group to see who could finish first, but Kevin was really the smartest in the class.  He sat back and let everyone else do the work and then copied their answers later!     

Describe the proposal: Kevin swept me away to a romantic destination on our sixth anniversary where he surprised me with a proposal!

What was the design inspiration for your wedding? Modern, clean and elegant, very much inspired by Philippe Starck’s interior designs. 

Favorite design element of your big day:  There are so many favorites!  We loved  the gigantic paper flower pomanders that my mother made, the peacock feather motif on the escort cards and the actual peacock feather in the pewter vases.  The turquoise napkins which were a surprise gift from our coordinator! 

Tell us about finding your wedding dress:  One day at work, I read about the Saks’ sample sale on Daily Candy.  I decided to stop by to see what was there, not planning on purchasing anything.  I expected a mob but found the store to be somewhat empty with just a few brides leisurely browsing.  I picked up a few samples to try on for fun and ended up finding the perfect dress!  The girl sharing my dressing room even told me how perfect the dress was!  That day, I walked out of the store with my wedding dress.

The most unexpected event on our wedding day was:  An earthquake!  4.7!

Did you write your own vows? Yes, but we had the officiant read them to us so we didn’t have to memorize them. 

What advice would you give to someone planning their wedding?  On the day of your wedding, make sure you remember to relax!  Let other people deal with whatever issues arise.  If possible, hire a day-of coordinator.  And enjoy every single moment of being engaged and planning your wedding!  It is such a special time.   

Congratulations on your marriage, Marie + Kevin!