A Travel-Inspired Vintage Wedding at Bella Collina in Montverde, Florida
Lora McCray (25, a pharmacist) and Michael Kerr (26, a United States marine) first met in middle school but didn't start dating until Lora’s sixteenth birthday. “His kiss was the best gift I received,” she says. Michael proposed on a trip to Arizona after Lora graduated from pharmacy school. They were sitting on a rock, overlooking the grand canyon when he pulled out the ring. “It glittered in the Arizona sun and painted a smile on my face from ear to ear,” says Lora. Over the next ten months, the couple planned their travel-inspired wedding at Bella Collina filled with personal touches and vintage accents. The venue’s atrium, complete with a Tuscan inspired archway and chandelier served as the main decor for Lora and Michael's intimate ceremony. Rows of white chiavari chairs lined with light flower petals and floating candles at three different heights were the only additions. The couple and their 50 guests then moved inside for a vintage accented reception and cocktail hour. “Since Michael's last name is Kerr, for a rustic touch I ordered Kerr mason jars online. They served the dual purpose of vases and a fitting cup for our signature drink,” says Lora. Each family-style table was lined with a lace runner, a few low floral arrangements, globes and creative touches. Metal airplanes, metal bikes, luggage and compasses found by the bride were placed on each table. Star Wars elements were also included in the festivities. “As a photo prop, we purchased several toy light sabers and these became a source of entertainment for our guests as well,” says Lora. The couple entertained their guests with a DJ and photo booth. An embossed luggage tag was given to each guest as a wedding favor and place card.