Every once in a while, a wedding comes across our desk that creates a “How did we not think of that?” moment. Allison (Alli) and Michael (Mike) Sullivan’s wedding is one such celebration which was so perfectly decked out in succulents that makes us wonder why every wedding doesn’t rely on the stubby little plants for everything from bouquet accents to place cards to party favors. All of the creativity and beauty was caught on camera by Ashton Kelley Photography, who shows off “The Succulent Sullivans” quite successfully in the photos below.
The best thing about it being your birthday is that everyone has to do what you want–at least, that’s how Mike approached his 24th when he spotted Alli out for a girl’s night across the bar. After walking over and introducing himself, he promised to leave her alone with her friends on the condition that she made his birthday wish come true and agreed to go out on a date with him. Alli agreed, and later met up with Mike for lunch at Panera, followed by a cup of coffee at the shop around the corner that lasted until dinnertime.
Two and a half years later, Mike and Alli had made plans to vacation on the beach in Miami. Immediately after checking into their hotel, Mike insisted that Alli slather on the sunscreen and head straight to the beach. Waiting for them by the water was a cabana stocked with rose petals, champagne, and strawberries. As they settled in to enjoy, Mike let Alli in on the secret–that they were in fact celebrating their engagement–before giving her the ring he’d had custom made to include a center diamond flanked by sapphires, her birthstone.
Though rain was forecasted for their July 18, 2015 wedding date, they were pleased to find that the rain fell early in the morning, making way for a perfect, clear sky during their outdoor ceremony. They wed in front of a gorgeous floral arch before sending guests to a table of succulents to find their seats for the reception
In honor of meeting on Mike’s birthday, they ate birthday cake flavored cupcakes from a teared stand topped with their names. After taking dancing lessons with The Wedding Dance Specialists, they showed off their new moves to “You’re My Best Friend” by Queen.
VENDORS
Venue: Belmont Manor House | Photographer: Ashton Kelley Photography | Bride’s Gown: Essence of Australia, Betsy Robinson’s Bridal Collection | Groom’s Tux: Jim’s Formal Wear, The Bridal Boutique in Columbia | Hair Dresser: Haute Blow Dry Bar | Makeup Artist: Gay Bohn and Megan Fields | Event Coordinator: Jillian Jenkins, Elle Ellinghaus Designs | Cake: Kupcakes & Co. | Florist: My Flower Box Events | Caterers: The Pantry Catering | Transportation: An Extraordinar Limousine Service | Videographer: Just Hitched Wedding Films | Music/Entertainment: DJ Flounder, FM Entertainment | Invitations and Stationary: Erin Alexander, EAlexDesigns | Cake Toppers: P.S. Weddings and Events | Bridesmaid Robes: Silk and More | Jewelry: John Greenan & Sons | Officiant: Raina Gover | Favors: The Succulent Source
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Caroline Cunningham joined Washingtonian in 2014 after moving to the DC area from Cincinnati, where she interned and freelanced for Cincinnati Magazine and worked in content marketing. She currently resides in College Park.
