Conly and Daniel. Where to even begin...
Conly and I met in the theater world. She is sweet and intelligent. A poet, writer, actor, singer....a dreamer. There was no question when I met Daniel that he was destined to be her life counterpart: an actor as well, a dancer - and completely devoted to Conly. They are creatives in the truest sense of the word. They infuse meaning into everything they say and do.
The wedding was to take place in Little Rock, Arkansas. No big deal that they were in San Francisco for grad school and I was in NYC just 6 months a new mom. (Thank you FaceTime and Google Sheets)The 1930's styled wedding took place at Wildwood Park for the Arts: a perfect location to take guests through a full 1930's experience from the outdoor lakeside ceremony to the speakeasy indoor reception.
The ladies were styled to 1930s perfection, starting with hair and make up...
...While the gentlemen enjoyed cigars and a beer.
The attendants gathered for these stunning pre-ceremony photos…
The ceremony took place at the Gazebo. Guests took at 5 minute walk along the lake to this beautiful site:
Conly carried with her the Bible carried be her paternal grandmother and many others in the family at their weddings. Conly's father looked so debonair in his 1930s attire!
The reception was followed by Cocktail Hour at "The Pavilion Club" featuring drinks such as "We'll Take Manhattan" and "The Make 'Em Laugh Cosmo". Guests were encouraged to write a post card to the couple that they would read at their 1 year anniversary, craft an origami creature, or snap a pic while "Puttin' on the Ritz".
After cocktail hour, with help of some way-finding, guests made their way to the "Daydream Ballroom", where they would welcome the newlyweds. The menu was designed by the couple and perfectly executed by Two Sisters Catering.
"Ladies and gentlemen, for the first time I present to you.....Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Self!"
(yes, their first dance was incredible. yes, it was choreographed. They ARE the modern-day Fred and Ginger.)
Throughout the evening guests were serenaded by the musical stylings of Steve Ross and The Goat Band.
...and they danced the night away!
Their Paper Moon cake was baked and designed by Hannah at Sweet Lavender Bakeshop.
The evening came full circle as guests gathered once again at the Pavilion under the Little Rock moonlight.
Daniel and Conly, thank you for delighting me with this courageous wedding venture! It is a day I will hold close not only as your coordinator but also as your friend. Wishing you the very best as you share this life together.
Photography by Cottonwood Studios
Hair styling by The Vance Family
Bride's Bouquet by About Vase
SPECIAL SHOUT OUT TO Georgia Rogers who took care of my sweet daughter all week!
Also to the Groomsmen and Lauren Wainwright, my extra sets of hands.