1. Real Weddings

A Colorful, Whimsical Wedding at Portofino Hotel & Marina in Redondo Beach, California

Amanda DiPiazza (29 and a TV executive) met Thadd William (30 and a freelance producer) while they were undergrads at Emerson College. “We didn’t star

Amanda DiPiazza (29 and a TV executive) met Thadd William (30 and a freelance producer) while they were undergrads at Emerson College. “We didn’t start dating until we had both moved to LA after graduation,” Amanda says. “All our mutual friends kept saying ‘You’re perfect for each other.’ ” For their wedding at Portofino Hotel & Marina in Redondo Beach, California, the couple worked to create a lighthearted seaside event bursting with playful personal touches. Patterns and pink played large roles in the day's theme. After Amanda and Thadd exchanged vows outdoors under a bright fuchsia and pink wedding arch, guests went indoors for the reception, which boasted a photo booth, perfectly personalized cake and a '90s cover band. “We were most inspired by the look of our venue and wanted to bring lots of color into the reception hall to match the beautiful ocean vistas,” says Thadd, who designed the invitations. Amanda’s advice to engaged couples: Learn to dance together. (She and Thadd took lessons to perform a choreographed dance at the reception.) “Honestly, going to those dance lessons allowed Thadd and me to let loose and have fun—planning a wedding can be stressful, but dancing together connects you and reminds you why you’re getting married.” —Carolyn Meers

Thadd designed the rainbow ombre invitations, which Amanda described as “classy but also unexpected and fun.”
Thadd worked with local designer Claydon Jewelers to create a pink diamond ring for Amanda.
Amanda's Mori Lee gown was elegant with a touch of playfulness. It was decorated with pink flowers and delicate, voluminous ivory tulle.
Brightly colored blooms were key for Amanda's bouquet, which was crafted by local florist Kathy Buffandeau.
"I knew I wanted the bridesmaid dresses to fun—and pink," says Amanda, who chose bright fuchsia gowns from Lela Rose with a lively pattern on top.
"I knew I wanted the bridesmaid dresses to fun—and pink," says Amanda, who chose bright fuchsia gowns from Lela Rose with a lively pattern on top.
Florist Kathy Buffandeau created bright pink and fuchsia bouquets for Amanda's bridesmaids.
Amanda and Thadd's dog, Baxter, was also present for their wedding day. "We have no shame in saying that we are obsessed with him," Amanda says.
“We were most inspired by the look of our venue and wanted to bring lots of color into the reception hall to match the beautiful ocean vistas,” says Thadd, who wore teal pants and a pink bow tie to echo the vibrant colors in the florals and bridesmaid gowns.
Amanda and Thadd said their vows outside under a colorful floral wedding arch made by Kathy Buffandeau.
Florist Kathy Buffandeau set each table with small but powerfully colorful centerpieces.
Saved by the 90s, a cover band, played hits all night—think Counting Crows and Notorious B.I.G.—at Amanda and Thadd's reception at Portofino Hotel & Marina in Redondo Beach, California.
Torrance Bakery created an exceptionally personalized cake for Amanda and Thadd, complete with a model of their dog, Baxter, taking a bite at the bottom.