The Reception Decor

While looking for a reception site, Michelle had a few requirements for the venue: It had to be on the water (to share her love of the beach and the ocean where she grew up with out-of-town guests); it needed both indoor and outdoor areas; and it should not be a typical ballroom setting. The Dana Point Youth and Group Facility met all of her specifications, though she and her mother had to start from scratch to turn the empty indoor space into a wedding wonderland. Michelle’s mom built two 15-foot birch trees, which flanked the newlyweds at their sweetheart table. She also created a false wall at the opposite end of the room by stringing together six 11-foot garden arbors, draped with sheer fabric and decorated with silk flowers. They set up everything themselves, from the tables and china to the bathroom décor, giving the venue a complete transformation.