June 21, 2014 – The 1 year anniversary of the Calgary Flood, and Jasmine and Antonio’s Wedding Day.
All week the forecast had been teasing me with a chance of rain for that Saturday. Jasmine and Antonio had planned an outdoor ceremony in Antonio’s parents backyard. The girls had their adorable yellow rain boots and the guests had been instructed to bring umbrellas.
The chairs were wet from the rain during the night, so a couple of Antonio’s aunts went out with rags and a leaf blower to dry everything off.
10am came quickly and the guests waited in anticipation. The clouds held their rain, “Why do fools rush in” began to play, and Jasmine walked down the flower petal lined aisle to marry the love of her life. I am so honored to have been there to witness it.
There are SO many things I love about Jasmine and Antonio’s wedding that I don’t even know where to start. So I figure I’ll make a list…
First off… that dress. A beautiful, strapless, floral lace gown. It was super light weight and allowed Jasmine to move around comfortably and it even had pockets! Perfect for stashing your lip colour, or some snacks:)
Second, I absolutely LOVED that the ceremony started in the morning. It allowed us to have a super relaxed day with a TON of time for pictures. We went to 4 different locations and were able to just goof around and have a good time taking photos.
Third, I love backyard weddings. There is so much warmth and love and family when the ceremony is at a beautiful place that holds meaning for the couple.
Fourth, Jasmine and Antonio had a Love Letter Ceremony. This was the first time I had seen this done and thought it was such a great idea. The box contains 2 wine glasses and a bottle of wine, along with love letters written by the Bride and Groom. The box is sealed at the wedding ceremony and it will be opened on a significant anniversary.
Fifth, Jasmine MADE her own bouquets out of fabric! They were absolutely gorgeous! She also made all the banners you will see in the photos. Jasmine has her own Etsy Shop and a blog. Go check it out!
Sixth, Rain Boots. Cute yellow rain boots. So perfect for this rainy day backyard wedding.
Seventh, During the recessional, the guests threw rice! I feel like nobody does this anymore and I loved how it looked in the photos.
Eighth, instead of a receiving line, Jasmine and Antonio opted to greet their guests individually and take a photo with each of them. As you’ll see, this allowed for so many hilarious and candid moments between the Bride and Groom and their family and friends.
Ninth, they had an absolutely hilarious bridal party. You could tell that they all really enjoyed each others company and it was so much fun hanging out with them.
Tenth, Instead of the traditional toasts and speeches at the reception, Jasmine’s sister made a video that incorporated pictures of the two of them, along with each person in their family telling what they loved about Antonio and Jasmine. It was full of emotion and something that they can look back at and be able to show their children one day.
Eleventh (I told you there was a lot of awesome at this wedding), I can’t recommend the DJ enough. Jay at Sounds Unlimited did an amazing job. It was a full on Latin Dance Party at the Reception complete with a dance-off between the brother and sister of the Bride.
And I’m sure that after I hit publish on this post I will think of a bunch of other little things that I loved about this rainy day backyard wedding. Enjoy looking at the photos! And if you know Antonio and Jasmine, be sure to leave them a note in the comments.
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Ceremony hosted by: Antonio’s Parents. Reception hosted by: University of Calgary. Bouquets and Fabric Floral Centerpieces by: Jasmine Podio. Cake by: Paula Pustanyk. Bride’s Dress by David’s Bridal, Designer Galina Style WG3512. Bridesmaids Dresses by: Marciano and Top Shop.Bride’s Headpiece: Michael’s. Reception Entertainment: Sounds Unlimited Disc Jockey & Entertainment Services. Rain boots from seller City Life on Aliexpress. Brides Makeup and Hair: Tina Leclerc
Photography by: Carlin Anquist – I am a Wedding & Portrait Photographer based in Calgary, AB, and available for international travel. Email hello@carlinanquist.com to inquire or just to say hi!
Second Shooter: Tiffany Vaughan Photography
You can view Jasmine and Antonio’s Engagement Photos here.
