1. Real Weddings

A Whimsical Wonderland Wedding at the Bushnell in Hartford, Connecticut

The only thing more whimsical than an "Alice in Wonderland"-themed wedding is an "Alice in Wonderland"-themed wedding that takes place in a historic t

The only thing more whimsical than an "Alice in Wonderland"-themed wedding is an "Alice in Wonderland"-themed wedding that takes place in a historic theater. Nicole Gugliotti (25 and a cardiovascular perfusionist) and Daniel Baldino (26 and an aircraft painter) had a colorful wedding with fun, whimsical details at the Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts in Hartford, Connecticut. "I loved the idea of having a theme in the details, so there were no over-the-top references to 'Alice in Wonderland,' but subtle, elegant nods to my favorite story," Nicole says. The reception took place on the theater's stage, which was illuminated by a starry-sky backdrop and colorful spotlights. Champagne flutes were tagged with labels that read "Toast me," and guests received bottles of wine made by Nicole's father with tags reading "Take me." Nicole and Daniel also paid tribute to their venue in their decor, with programs resembling Playbills and escort cards resembling ticket stubs. Wedding attire was also unique. The bridesmaids wore black dresses that featured different-colored bodices, and the groomsmen wore black tuxedos with different-colored vests that matched the bridesmaid dresses. Daniel wore a classic black tuxedo with a white vest ?while Nicole wore a Watters dress that was custom-embellished with Swarovski crystals. "We tried to make the day flow smoothly and provide our guests with the best food and drinks available," Nicole says. "Nothing was more fun than relaxing with our closest family and friends."

Nicole carried a bouquet with pink orchids, red roses and deep purple calla lilies on her wedding day.
Nicole wore a Watters wedding dress, which she bought from Julie Allen Bridal in Newtown, Connecticut. She had the dress embellished with Swarovski crystals. She also wore a fingertip veil and Swarovski crystal jewelry.
Since their wedding took place in a theater, Nicole and Daniel designed their wedding programs to look like Playbills.
The groomsmen wore black tuxedos with different-colored vests and bow ties. Daniel wore a white vest and bow tie with his tuxedo.
Nicole's bridesmaids wore black dresses with different-colored bodices by Alfred Angelo. "I love how they matched and complemented one another," Nicole says.
The bridesmaids carried bouquets of red calla lilies and roses with their Alfred Angelo dresses.
Escort cards at Nicole and Daniel's wedding resembled ticket stubs, which was fitting for their theater venue.
Dining tables for the reception were arranged on the Bushnell's stage. The backdrop resembled a starry night, and the area was illuminated with colorful spotlights.
"Toast Me" Sign With Champagne Glasses
Centerpieces at the reception were arranged on tall glass vases. They included red and white roses, yellow sedums and greens.
As favors, Nicole and Daniel gave their guests bottles of red and white wine that were made and bottled by Nicole's father. The bottles had tags that read "Take me," to go with the 'Alice in Wonderland' theme.
Black, White and Red Wedding Cake
Whimsical Stage First Dance