• Real Weddings

Marlana and Nicholas actually met at Nicholas' going away party. He was heading back to Colorado, and they went on a date before he left that did not go so well. They knew the situation - he was leaving California and going back to Colorado. The date didn't go well but it didn't end there, she sent him a text, which turned into phone conversations, which turned to handwritten letters, skype dates and finally a job opportunity for Marlana to move to Colorado.
Planning their semi destination wedding: They weren't sure where to get married. The majority of their friends and her family lived in California, his family lived in Colorado so they decided on an Aspen wedding. They decided a couple weeks after their Aspen wedding that they would have a small barbecue reception in California. Suddenly it turned into a bigger party .... and this is it, Marlana and Nicholas' fruit stand backyard wedding reception. Delightfully captured by Joe+Kathrina Photography. As per all of our fabulous features, you can see all the details up close in the full gallery here.

Look closely at the entrance table, you can see that shutters were placed on the right and left of the entrance table. Each shutter had the table assignments hanging on them. The table also had a box to place wedding cards. Great idea ... right? We must also mention that each table was named after a fruit and a huge bowl of fruit was placed on each table in lieu of transitional table numbers. Another great idea.

Another table had a place for guests to write their well wishes on Jenga pieces. Each time Marlana and Nicholas played the fun game they can read their well well wishes. So fun!

Best Idea Ever:Nick doesn't consider himself vegan but his diet is very strict, they joke that a week visiting him you digestive system will thank you! Taking that in, they decided to have a theme of fruits for their reception. Their invitation gave a prelude to that with a pear design...their table seating were all named after fruits (ie: Apple, Berries, Grapes, Oranges, Plums) and at each table were a bowl of fruits to signify the names. The best part were their favors! They created a "produce stand" with fruits and gave away reusable bags that said "I (heart) your Heart". Guests felt like they were at a farmer's market and loved it!

Photographer: Joe+Kathrina Photography Makeup: Laura Schaner Hair: Laura Schaner Caterer: Wahoo's Cinematography: Bride's Brother, Chris Haag DJ: SOS Entertainment Dress Designer: Allure Exclusive from Tom's Bridal Veil or Hair Accessories: Kate Pewthers Venue: Celeste Gallagher's Home + Design & Decoration