That’s Amore

 

What an amazing weekend!  We were so honored to take part in such an special wedding celebration for our friends Ryan and Jill.  It was filled with love, laughs and lots of shenanigans and was right up our alley!  Here are some of the highlights:

 

The ceremony took place at Palencia Golf and Country Club in St. Augustine.  The setting was beautiful, overlooking the golf course and weather Gods were definitely on our side! Rain clouds were looming prior to “go time”, but as soon as the ceremony started it was absolutely gorgeous, much like the bride!

The groom and groomsmen getting a look at the bride for the first time.

The lovely bridesmaids in Melissa Sweet dresses – so classy!

 

I have been so excited about Jill and Ryan’s wedding for a while.  We have such a fun friendship with them, and definitely felt a connection with their big day.  Jill actually caught the bouquet from our wedding (yes, we both used to have blonde hair!) and even more special, the officiant who married us, married them as well.

 

 

The ceremony was fun, humorous and full of personal touches.  It definitely depicted their love for each other – so sweet.

 

 

After the midday ceremony, we had a few hours to kill before the evening reception. 

We headed to a local downtown restaurant, Santa Maria, right across the street from the reception location.  We ordered drinks and appetizers and I even tried my first oyster (steamed)…the verdict?  I’m glad I tried it, but didn’t go back for more.

 

 

Look who we saw taking pictures right in front of the restaurant!

 

 

After some “pre-gaming” at the Santa Maria, we meandered across the street to The White Room for the reception festivities.  The banquet room was gorgeous and the porch views were breathtaking.

 

 

 

The low lighting and candles added such a romantic hue.

 

Candy bar! 

I can say from personal experience that the orange gummies and chocolate covered almonds were a hit!

 

 

 

Good friends, good times!

 

 

First dance song:  True Companion by Marc Cohn – one of my all time favorites!

 

 

Menu:

• Mixed field greens with pecans, blue cheese, mandarin oranges, yellow raisins served with raspberry vinaigrette.
• Pepper Seared Beef Tenderloin
• O.C. White’s Famous Crab Cakes
• Roasted Vegetables
• Garlic Herb Whipped Mashed Potatoes

 

 

The wedding cake was delish!  There were three different layers of flavor, but my favorite was the chocolate with raspberry filling.  Yum!

 

 

 

After all of the eating, dancing and toasting, the real shenanigans began.  We had a blast celebrating with all of our friends and taking part in such a special day with Ryan and Jill.  This was definitely an epic night with memories that will last a lifetime.

 

 

Congrats Mr. and Mrs. Francoforte!