Karen and Austin got married at their church, and had their reception at Venue at the Grove. Their color palate of sage and chocolate brown looked amazing in the hall. When the couple arrived their excitement was evident, they were already glowing after their ceremony. . .  now it was time to celebrate!

Guests arrived to find a welcoming cocktail hour with a cheese and fruit display, as well as a signature drink! AK 1023, otherwise known as an amaretto sour with pineapple juice (one of the couple’s favorites) was a hit at the bar. Once guests made their way into the hall, they found personalized Chapstick at their place setting as their favor. Perfect for a celebratory smooch!

Guests dined on delicious food, and the dance floor was busy all night. One of the most touching moments of Karen and Austin’s wedding was Karen’s dance with her father and Austin’s dance with his mom. Both were so personal and touching, it was a very special moment.

Right before cutting the cake, Austin surprised Karen with a beautiful speech about their relationship. While courting, Austin had to go to Germany for work, in his speech, he expressed that this trip made him realize how special his relationship was with Karen, and how he knew he wanted to marry her. He surprised Karen with a very special and hard to come by bottle of wine that he purchased while in Germany.

Karen and Austin, your wedding was beautiful. We are so happy for you both! Congratulations, we wish you much love in your bright future ahead!

Photo courtesy of Michael Meimer

One of the best moments we get to share here at Venue at the Grove is that moment when the doors shut, there is a slight pause, and then we push them open for the bride’s grand entrance. It’s the first time that guests and sometimes the groom get to see her, and no matter how many times we close those doors, and re-open them, there is still that feeling of anticipation and excitement.   At the wedding of Sarah and Chris, that feeling was no exception.

Sarah and Chris now live in Seattle, but are originally from here in Phoenix.  Because of logistics, Sarah’s parents had to do much of the planning, however we felt like we got to know Sarah through her parents and several phone calls of course! Even though we hadn’t met Sarah and Chris until their wedding day, the moment we met them, their love for each other was evident, and we were so honored to be part of their day.

Sarah and Chris did a great job of making their wedding so personal. Their ceremony was so touching and incorporated guest participation as well as many ceremony traditions like a unity candle. They even hung a very special family cross on the arbor.  Inside at the reception, the décor matched perfect with their navy color palate, and the personalized bottles on the table were a special touch.

The hall was full of love and laughter that night. The dance floor was packed, and everyone had a great time! Congratulations Sarah and Chris, we wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

Photos courtesy of Brittany Janelle Photography