A Garden-Inspired Beach Wedding at Adamson House in Malibu, California

Once Christina Warme (27 and a lighting designer) got up the nerve to instant message her hometown crush, Trevor Thompson (28 and an executive producer), the wheels were set in motion for their future together. “After a month of flirty text messages, we had our first date. From that night, we pretty much both knew it was end game for us,” Christina says. The two dated for four years before he proposed on a bluff in Malibu. “I always wanted a garden wedding, with lots of green and natural elements like moss and twigs—kind of an enchanted-garden vibe with pops of deep purple,” says Christina, who was at first thrown off by Adamson House’s beach location overlooking a popular Malibu, California, surf break. “I thought, This isn't going to make sense. Then I figured, who cares? I was going to have a garden wedding at the beach! Our venue allowed for separation between us and the beach, so it actually worked out perfectly.” After an outdoor seaside ceremony under a floral arch, Christina and Trevor’s 220 attendees signed a surfboard (in place of a guest book) and walked to the on-site reception, where they found their seats under a shady sycamore tree and market lights, which began to glow after sunset. For centerpieces, purple and white blossoms—like those used in the bridal party bouquets—were set amid table numbers made with moss fabric and small iron lanterns. For dessert, the true crowd-pleaser was a handcrafted wooden wall stocked with 1,000 fresh doughnuts from local bakery Donut Snob. “The large glittery ‘donuts’ sign had everyone swooning,” says Christina, who handwrote menus so guests knew what they were tasting. “It was so fun to have an array of choices. We also had a variety of cake and mini cakes, so we had to-go bags,” Christina says. These take-home treats, along with individual bags of coffee, were served as wedding favors. Quirky nontraditional elements and a relaxed approach made Christina and Trevor’s event distinct but still heartfelt. “Just have the best time and let everyone know you are enjoying yourself,” Christina says. “If you’re stressed, that will set the tone. Relax, breathe and celebrate your new union.” —Carolyn Meers