So many emotions and words come to mind when I think about my bridal shower and the love that surrounded me. It was such a whirlwind in the best way possible and one of the most special days of my life. My head was in the clouds the entire day; I barely noticed the little details that I spent so much time planning. I was so consumed by engaging and meaningful conversations with all the ladies that everything else around me faded. The most important thing to me in those moments was spending time with everyone who came out to celebrate with me and letting them know how appreciative I was that they were there.
From the flowers, to my cake, to the champagne wall, to the table numbers, every little detail was perfect! It all came together so beautifully, even more so than I could have ever imagined. The staff at The Starting Gate went above and beyond to execute on my vision for the event, and I was so beyond pleased with their work and service. I also have my mom and bridesmaids to thank for putting many of the details together and making sure I had everything I wanted. I could never put into words how grateful I am for them and everything they did for me that day to make me feel like the luckiest bride-to-be in the world!
Out of all the decisions I made for that day, the one that was priceless to me and I would spend any dollar amount on, is photography. Of course, everyone hires a photographer for their wedding day, but it’s less common to hire a photographer for the smaller events like a bridal shower. Photography is extremely important to me (I wrote more about it on this blog post) for many reasons. For one, I’m fascinated by it – I think it’s such a beautiful art that takes a lot of talent and a keen eye. Most importantly, I love that photography can capture the most beautiful moments of your life that you’re then able to cherish forever. I knew that there would be so many things I missed on my bridal shower day, I knew I wouldn’t see all the beautiful flower arrangements and votives, the delicious smelling homemade donuts, or the expression on my mother’s face as I was giving my speech. Thanks to my wonderful and incredibly talented photographer Iryna, I was able to see all those things afterwards, and I can look back on those photos for the rest of my life! A picture can really speak a thousand words, especially the candid ones. Iryna captured everything so beautifully and I was so blown away by her work. She captured all the décor, the food, posed shots, and very special candid moments. I highly, highly recommend her to anyone, check out her website here.
When I gave my speech one of the first things I said, besides telling everyone that Jonathan proposed to me on the golf course that the venue was on, was that my mom has called me “princesa” my entire life. “Princesa” means princess in Portuguese. It was a nice way to start the speech because it made everyone laugh, but I started it that way for a very important reason. I wanted to explain to everyone that yes, she’s called me that my whole life and has always made me feel special and unconditionally loved, but throughout this entire journey she has made me feel like a real princess. She has been so loving, accepting, and genuinely thrilled for me that I get to marry my best friend. She loves Jonathan too and she couldn’t be happier that we’re getting married. I’m the first of my siblings to get married, so it’s really cool to see her go through this all for the first time. I couldn’t ask for a better mom; I’ve always known how much she loves me, but planning my wedding she’s shown me that love on a whole new level and it’s very heartwarming and special.
Keep scrolling for more pictures and details from the event (and my outfit, of course!).
Photography: Iryna’s Photography
Venue: The Starting Gate
Flower centerpieces: Ladyslipper Designs
Table Numbers: PinkPosiesandPearls Etsy Shop
Balloon Garland: supersweetparty Etsy Shop
Paper Flowers: PetalsandPaperCo Etsy Shop
Cake: Taste by Spellbound
Dress: Zhivago
Shoes: AZALEA WANG
Sheila Rodriguez says
Sandy!! Congratulations on such a picture perfect bridal shower! I loved how you spoke about your Mother, I’m so excited for you! Last for few until the BIG DAY 🎊🤵🏻👰🏻💕
Enjoy every minute! You are going to be the most gorgeous bride 👰🏻
Stephanie Vainer says
This is the prettiest bridal shower and your dress is gorgeous!
Stephanie | a learning story blog