Real Wedding: April & Aaron

The Feldmans happened to meet on an Exquisite Weddings photo shoot (which certainly warms our hearts). He was the man behind the camera (founder/CEO of True Photography Weddings) as she styled the shoot at the lovely Cal-a-Vie property. A romance commenced, leading to a New Year’s Eve proposal in Palm Desert in front of their closest friends and family. When it came time to choose a ceremony site, it made perfect sense to return to the stunning setting where it all began.

I Dos
In a 400-year-old stone chapel from Dijon, France, with wooden pews and antique chandeliers, all enhanced by a wealth of greenery—the bride’s vision was to bring a garden feel inside.

Gorgeous Gown
April wore White by Vera Wang, an elegant one-shoulder dress with a Greek goddess feel.

Walking Tall
She wore Lucky Brand 5 1/2-inch blush-colored T-strap sandals, since her husband Aaron stands 6-feet-6-inches tall.

Bridesmaids’ Style
April gave each one a color and said, “Pick a long dress that you love.” So she was surrounded by an array of color—red (her favorite), purple, coral, and a floral print.

The Gents
Aaron gifted his groomsmen with shirts and ties in lighter shades of the bridesmaids’ palette.

Reception Inspiration
“It all started with an avocado and a picnic theme,” chimes the bride. The property’s expansive setting has a French country feel, with its manicured gardens, twisting grape vines, lavender fields, stone well, windmill, rolling hills, and Provençal architecture.

Details, Details, Details
The couple wanted an eclectic and bright wedding with details that had meaning to them. They put fresh mint in the bouquets and avocados on the place settings atop a stylish recipe card for guacamole. Watercolors, hand-painted by the bride, rested on each table, reflecting their favorite things like old-fashion cameras, baseballs, and their signature sea foam scooter.

Bride’s Favorite Touch
The colorful flag and sail escort cards by Brightly Designed and the vintage wood boat that they were displayed in.

Caribbean Cuisine
A fresh, organic menu with island flair—fish steamed in banana leaves, curry chicken, and coconut-infused rice—served buffet style.

Sentimental Sweets
April’s mom made all of the cakes and divine cookies, since the bride wanted that homemade touch.

Groom’s Favorite Moment
Reading their vows. “Her kind face, smile, and eyes affected me so much. The genuine words captured my heart. I felt a sense of total peace knowing that she truly loves me for who I am, unconditionally.”

Inside Joke
Aaron’s best friend served as officiant, and since he is much smaller than the towering groom, Aaron lightened the mood by bringing out a stool for him to stand on as the ceremony began, triggering a round of laughter.

Pre-ceremony Present
April gave Aaron a custom-made, retro Padres jersey embroidered with his last name.

Grand Exit
The happy couple drove off in a golf cart chased by their enthusiastic guests.

Honeymoon Heaven
April and Aaron explored the true local flavor of Tahiti by staying with resident islanders who dazzled their taste buds with luscious tropical fruit growing in their backyard.

—Jennifer Rea

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