What better way to start the New Year but with a little bit of shine! Lisa and Jeff Roper were married September 21st, 2013 at the Cathedral Basilica and reception at The Four Seasons in St. Louis. The Four Seasons hosted the rehearsal dinner, welcome party, and reception because of their worldwide five star reputation, the hotel truly went above and beyond their customer service reputation. Heather Roth with Heather Roth Photography and Keith Jorgensen with Poetic Productions based in Chicago captured every detail to this wedding. I personally have had the honor of working with the duo on countless wedding, so I knew they were a great fit for Lisa and Jeff. Belli Fiori and Exclusive Events were on board for the design, nothing was out of the question when the vision was presented. The 15-foot lamps around the lounge area were to make for a feel of “dancing in the city streets” while the lounge furniture was reupholstered for a vintage flare.
Lisa’s design vision allowed for guests to observe the silver, gold, white, and a hint of blush color palette in the classic and romantic with a modern twist design. Champagne was an integral part of keeping this theme cohesive from the welcome party to the after party. The design consisted of three different shaped tables, each having its own linens, chargers, napkins, and centerpieces. By transforming the room with draping, lighting, and a lounge area around the custom white dance floor; they created a classic and modern dinner room for their wedding party and guests. A runner of floral, crystal auras, an abundance of candles, and gold accent pieces provided a romantic ambience while the second look allowed for the bride’s vision of sparkle to shine. The round tables held silver sequined linen from California, clear chargers, a trio of white lamps. The goal was to create a modern and simple yet powerful look. By incorporating over-the-top floral pieces draped with crystals above the third table, a square table, the team integrated a more dramatic look to fit the tall ceilings.
One of my favorite things about the wedding were the small details. Two Blue Doors did an outstanding job with all the paper goods. One of the most unique ideas was the champagne escort table. The guests found their escort card on the top of the champagne flute upon their arrival. What better way to be welcomed than a glass of bubblies!
Music at the reception and ceremony was the top priority for Lisa and Jeff. After all, it not only sets the tone, it provides entertainment and ambience. Rosewood Ensemble collaborated with the Cathedral Basilica choir to make the most powerful and emotional ceremony any guest could possibly imagine. At the reception the band, Jeff and Lisa wanted a large, powerful and unique band. I was going out on a limb when suggesting to the clients to bring down Larry King Orchestra, 12 piece plus DJ band from Chicago, however, it’s no secret they are a favorite of mine. It was a good thing they have experience with collaborating with major artist because one week before the wedding, the groom informed me of his top-secret plan, his friend and famous rapper Nelly would make a guest appearance. With no time for communication with Nelly, the band created a track to collaborate with the rapper. When Nelly arrived, the singer had plans as to which songs were to be played, but within a few minutes the rapper and band created a last minute track not only shocked the guests but Nelly himself. Having a back stage, front row pass, to a once in a lifetime gig was probably the highlight of my year… ok maybe my career.
The best man speech was made by the groom’s son, which pretty much sums up why they are now such dear friends of mine. He quoted his dad, “In life need to surround yourself with good people and your going to be happy and my dad did this by marrying Lisa.” The vendors worked as a team to create an extraordinary event. Most importantly, the couple not only had a beautiful wedding with a celebrity appearance, but one of the most emotional weddings many of us have had the opportunity in which to take part of. From the rehearsal dinner, welcome party, ceremony, reception, and after party, it was an event for their friends and family to come together to celebrate their love.
NOW…. check it out!
Planner: Kristin Ashley Events
Photographer: Heather Roth Photography
Videographer: Poetic Productions
Church: Cathedral Basilica
Venue: Four Seasons
Floral: Belli Fiori
Decor: Exclusive Events
Music: Rosewood Ensemble
Band: Larry King Orchestra
Rentals: Aries Company
Stationery: Two Blue Doors
Transportation: Best Transportation
Hair and Makeup: Danielle Style
Gown: Lazaro Kleinfeld, NYC
Bridesmaid: Bella Bridesmaid
Groom: Hugo Boss, Nordstrom
Linens: BBJ & La Tavola