Weddings are the epitome of love, celebration, and beautiful beginnings. Imagine combining all the elements of a unique love story, charming historical ambiance, and exquisite floral designs—it's a recipe for an unforgettable wedding. Journey with us as we delve into the magical world of Alexi and Tommy's wedding at the illustrious Lightner Museum in St. Augustine, Florida.
Love filled the air as Alexi and Tommy embarked on their journey as a married couple in July. They chose to have a St. Augustine Wedding to give their guests an opportunity to experience a beautiful and historic destination. Lightner Museum provided the perfect backdrop for their love story, with its ornate architecture and exquisite decorative art. Guests were transported back in time, experiencing the historical significance of the venue and feeling a part of something truly extraordinary.
The bride wore a beautiful Enzoani gown from Pavane Couture Bridal. and she gave the bridesmaids free rein to wear their favorite gown in her color palette of muted neutral tones (when I first met Alexi, I asked about her color palette, and she said "think neutral tones from the brand Skims"). The ladies had dresses from Hello Molly, Boohoo, and Club L London.
Alexi's bridesmaids were friends she met throughout the years. One of her bridesmaids was a school pen pal from England. The ladies kept in touch all of these years and met when Alexi went to Europe after finishing school.
Tommy wore a Michael Kors suit and his groomsmen wore shirts and slacks from Calvin Klein. Tommy's groomsmen included his brother and lifelong friends as well.
The couple took advantage of the venue and had a first look prior to the ceremony! This is always a great option to consider as it allowed them to have a private moment together and it gave the photographer all the time needed to capture portraits and wedding party photos before the ceremony. This option worked out beautifully as we had rainstorms later on that would have prevented us from getting these amazing shots if we had waited.
With a trusting collaboration between the couple and their talented floral designers (who happened to be the groom's mother and sisters), the venue was transformed into a blooming paradise. The natural beauty of delphiniums, ranunculus, and greenery intertwined seamlessly with the museum's stunning interior, creating a breathtaking atmosphere that mesmerized all in attendance. The delicate scent of the florals filled the air, enveloping the couple and their beloved guests in a sensory wonderland.
Held within the breathtaking Historic Pool, the ceremony exuded elegance and grace. The Élan Events & Design team transformed the venue with breathtaking white florals and greenery that lined the staircases and the aisle, guiding Alexi and Tommy toward their forever. Alexi and Tommy chose to honor Tommy's heritage with a Messianic Jewish wedding ceremony, infusing the ceremony with rich symbolism and profound meaning. Their Russian and English ceremony melded their two cultures. We love that they privately read their vows to one another.
After the ceremony, the guests were ushered to the Grand Lobby of the Lightner Museum. The Grand Lobby looks out onto an amazing private courtyard. During this time we were able to capture all remaining formal portraits and Yuliana B Photo took our breath away with the photos she captured.
As the sun gently set, guests were led back to the pool area and were treated to a sumptuous feast that created lasting memories. The couple was serenaded by Russian singers, Kristina Oselsky & Samuel Kalmykov. We were in awe of these two as their voices along with the acoustics of the Lightner Museum melded to create perfection.
The skilled culinary team at Chef's Garden, crafted a menu with modern gastronomic delights, satiating every palate and reflecting the bride and groom's unique love story. The amazing award-winning pastry artists from, Creme De La Cocoa designed their beautiful cake and set up an amazing display of assorted desserts for all in attendance. With the bride having a gluten allergy, they were able to customize the desserts and cakes to meet her dietary needs. They also worked with the groom's family to also incorporate an assortment of desserts from the family's favorite Russian bakery.
Alexi and Tommy's St. Augustine wedding was a harmonious interplay of history, tradition, and undeniable love. Surrounded by opulence and the echoes of time, their union echoed the museum's grandeur and the everlasting power of love. As guests danced the night away, they joined in the celebration of two souls embarking on a lifetime of shared faith, respect, and cherished memories.
In this extraordinary celebration, we were reminded that love knows no bounds; instead, it transcends tradition, history, and difference – binding us all. And as Alexi and Tommy embarked on their journey as a married couple, we can only marvel at the ever-lasting legacy they are creating together.
Amazing Wedding Professional Team:
Floral/Designer: Elan Event Design
Venue: The Lightner Museum
Caterer: Chef's Garden Catering & Events
Singers & Ceremony Interpreters: Kristina Oselsky
Cake: Creme De La Cocoa
Bride Dress: Pavane Couture Bridal
Bridesmaid Dresses: Hello Molly, Boohoo, and Club L London
Grooms Suit: Michael Kors
Groomsmen's attire: Calvin Klein