Paula and Michael: A Glamorous Wedding with Military Flair

by Amy Serrago

Paula and Michael met on a cruise with their families and they’ve been inseparable ever since. Michael says that from the first time he laid eyes on Paula he was, “determined to get to know that woman!” On the first night they hung out they stayed up all night. “We talked and joked about any and everything. I had to know more about him and him about me”, says Paula. When Michael decided it was time to ask Paula to be his wife, he thought the best way was to plan another cruise. With help from his parents, he booked a week-long cruise for the whole family. One night at dinner he had his brother ask all the couples to tell their meeting stories. When Michael’s turn came along, he told his and Paula’s story and then got down on one knee. He told her how much she means to him and asked her to be his bride. Of course, she said yes, and the wedding planning began. All Paula knew was that she wanted something elegant and since she is in the Air Force she wanted to include some military flair in the ceremony. She and Michael had a traditional Christian ceremony that included a sand unity ritual and communion. And on their way back down the aisle as husband and wife they were honored with a traditional military saber arch.

Paula was picture perfection her trumpet cut gown with its wide straps and sexy sheer back. She finished her look with a fingertip veil and a sparkling headband for extra glamour. Her bridesmaids were elegantly clad in wine colored gowns, a color that was featured in Paula’s bridal bouquet while her ladies carried all white florals that popped against their gowns. It was important to both Michael and Paula that he stand out from his groomsmen, so while they were handsome in light gray, he rocked a three-piece navy blue Kennth Cole suit with a gray vest and wine colored tie.

The reception decor was truly stunning. Using a color palette of wine and silver, Noah’s Event Venue in Morrisville, NC was transformed into an elegant and dreamy wonderland. Michael loved that they got to customize the venue’s ceiling design. He chose “the spoke” which included sheer draped fabric radiating from a three-tiered chandelier which hung above the center of the space. The fabric cascaded down the side wall and formed a glamorous backdrop for the head table. Their design also featured a suspended wedding cake, a new trend we can’t get enough of. Silver accents, floating candles and dramatic floral designs that included hydrangea and orchids completed the decor. Paula and Michael had fun playing the shoe game, but once the newlyweds got it going on the dance floor, there was no stopping the party. Especially, when their violinist, Daniel D, busted loose. Congratulations Paula and Michael!