Alan and Judy tied the knot at the Mandarin Community Center with Reception at the same location. Judy carried the most beautiful (and colorful) bouquet! Their ceremony was very family oriented and fun loving as the entire party danced up the isle after the ceremony.
I must say this was a very easy going group with goofy poses and a hilarious groom cake! Nothing says I love you more than an appreaciation for humor 
This couple will most definitely enjoy each other for many years to come! Congrats Alan and Judy!
Hello Again,
Here is another wonderful couple I had the pleasure of sharing their wedding – Brian and Kristin Reap. Kristin found me on the Internet through Big Day Small World and after some email correspondence we scheduled a meeting.
The couple got married at St. Francis Xavier Church in Live Oak, FL with the reception following at the Spirit of the Suwanee State Park. Kristin was gorgeous in her white gown with brown sash!
Everyone danced the night away following a cocktail hour while we explored the park to get some scenic couple pictures. What a fun group!
I wish you many years of happiness!
Congrats Kristin and Brian!
Hello Again!
As I have been run ragged in October with many many things to do, I have equally slacked off in November. Here we sit going into Christmas week and I am now going to finally share my wonderful couples of October.
First and foremost October 9th I had Darryl and Njeri Gichia- Broussard – Orange Park
Then on October 10th Brian and Becky Massey- Brunswick, Ga
The following Weekend Brian and Kristin Reap- Live Oak, FL
Wrapping up October on the 24th Alan and Judy Costley – in the Mandarin area of Jacksonville.
Find the wonderful stories in my next few blogs.
Thanks for keeping up
Vanessa
Hello everyone,
Ok so we have finally gotten to the end! This is the last article I have for you right now This one is all about underestimated venues… Mainly State Parks. We have such beauty here in Florida and it gets overlooked so often. Lets say you are planning the wedding of your dreams and it must be outside, but the beach is so sandy and a garden is too played out! What are you ever going to do? How about get married by a waterfall? No Im not saying fly to Hawaii, check out you local State Parks. Read all about it.
5. Unique venues in your region—
Florida has some of the most beautifully scenic areas in the United States- varying from crystal clear freshwater springs to rolling green pastures. You will never lack in venues here. My most favorite venues are spread all over Florida. Check out your closest State Parks!
Most State Parks are willing to hold your event and most often cheaper than renting a location. I know Rainbow Springs in Dunnellon is only $1 per person, and like most parks they just ask you clean up after yourselves. In a tight economy this is a very affordable option!
You may think “my location offers a pretty lake and I can have the reception there too”- that’s wonderful! Do they offer waterfalls? How about wildlife? Can you capture a piece of history? Fort Clinch offers tours of the historical fort, and beautiful jette lined beaches behind the fort. Rainbow Springs gives a gorgeous gazebo and 3 different waterfalls. Gold Head State Park has a tucked away ravine with a little river running through it- It’s very beautiful in the fall or winter with the falling leaves and bright colors. Every park I’ve been to offers pavilion rentals for your receptions as well.
Well what about large weddings? You are outdoors! These places could have room for hundreds! I’ve captured weddings with less than 10 and up to 50 – room will never be an issue. The only thing you may ever worry about is the weather. Most parks offer covered pavilions, gazebos, or buildings for this occasion, but if the weather is permitting why not get overlooking a waterfall? These parks are open sunrise to sunset and will gladly host your special event. When planning your day why not visit a park or two in your area? Even if you decide to rent another location you still have a great day walking the park and spending some quality time with your other half.
Hopefully I have helped you at all in this ever so stressful time of wedding planning. Please leave me a comment, or contact me with any feedback or questions you may have. I would love to hear from you!
Good Luck!
Vanessa
They are a lovely couple who have been so lucky to find each other overcoming many obstacles in the journey. We met through Alpha and Omega Events here in Jacksonville even though the couple live down South. 
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