Nestled within the enchanting woods of Ridley Creek State Park, Parque is a venue where timeless elegance blends seamlessly with nature’s tranquility. Maria and Cameron’s late summer wedding here was not just a celebration of their union but a heartfelt gathering focused on family ties and intimate moments. The day was filled with beautiful traditions, heartfelt vows, and tears of joy, creating memories that were as vivid as the lush backdrop of their venue.

all white sophisticated wedding invitation suite by Emily Wren Photography

Getting Ready in Parque’s Bridal Suite

As the morning sun filtered through the elegant windows of Parque, Maria’s bridal preparation began. In a symphony of elegance and grace, Maria’s bridal look is a vision of refined beauty. Her hair is styled into a sculpted bun that exemplifies timeless sophistication—a true masterpiece from Marissa Grace Artistry. The makeup, done by Rae Beauty & Bridal, was flawlessly natural, enhancing her features with soft, earthy tones that echo the serene joy of her special day. Her wedding gown, a masterpiece by Trish Peng, featured delicate lace and an ethereal silhouette that echoed the day’s essence of sophistication. Accompanied by her bridesmaids and mother, the atmosphere was light and joyous.

Exchanging First Looks & Vows Amid Parque’s Sprawling Nature

The anticipation heightened during Maria and Cameron’s private first look. Set against the rustic charm of Ridley Creek’s stone architecture, Cameron awaited his bride on a secluded pathway, their moments filled with a palpable tenderness. This intimate exchange set the tone for the day, as they read their vows privately, an emotional prelude to their ceremony, punctuated by mutual tears and tender smiles.

bride & grooms private first look at Parque Ridley Creek by Emily Wren Photography

Outdoor Ceremony at Parque: A Serenade of Emotions and Elegance

Maria and Cameron’s wedding ceremony, held in the lush gardens of Parque at Ridley Creek, was a picturesque scene of natural beauty and heartfelt moments. The groom, Cameron, stood awaiting his bride, visibly moved, his emotions captured in a touching moment where he wiped away tears. This genuine display of love set the tone for what was to unfold under the historic stone archway, enveloped in delicate white florals by Topiary 219 Floristry & Horticulture that cascaded around and above, adding a dreamlike quality to the setting.

As the strings of the quartet filled the air, Maria, radiating grace and elegance, walked down the aisle, her approach heralded by the soft flutter of her veil. The ceremony was deeply personal, officiated by Maria’s cousin, which added an intimate touch to the proceedings. The exchange of vows was a profound exchange, stirring deep emotions not only in the couple but also among the guests who were visibly moved, sharing in the couple’s joy with tears and affectionate glances.

outdoor late summer wedding ceremony at Parque Ridley Creek by Emily Wren Photography

A Sophisticated Reception at Parque Ridley Creek

Following the ceremony, the reception unfolded inside the majestic halls of Parque, where the heritage of the venue complemented the modern elegance of the wedding design. Special touches like the “Hello Darling” mirror greeting guests with playful yet elegant scripts and the bespoke table plan, displayed against a backdrop of elegant floral arrangements and candles, showcased the couple’s attention to detail and their desire to create a welcoming and memorable experience for their guests.

The space was transformed into a vision of white and light, with table settings that gleamed under the soft glow of candlelight, each detail reflecting a careful blend of sophistication and simplicity. The floral arrangements from Topiary 219 Floristry & Horticulture were minimalist yet impactful, with gentle sprigs of greenery accentuating the clean, white decor.

The dinner tables were adorned with elegant place settings, each detail from the linen to the cutlery curated to enhance the experience of their guests. The centerpieces, tall and filled with candles and delicate flowers, cast a romantic light across the room, while the mirrored surfaces and crystal decor elements reflected the soft, ambient lighting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The couple’s entrance to the reception was nothing short of spectacular, with Maria and Cameron sharing their first moments as a married couple, their happiness infectious, evident as their wedding party held up marquee letters spelling out their newly shared last name. Their joy was palpable, setting a lighthearted and festive tone for the evening.

The evening was filled with lively celebrations, including heartfelt speeches that moved the room to tears, a spirited first dance, and playful moments such as the bride and groom joyously cutting the beautifully ornate cake. In a heartwarming twist to the traditional wedding festivities, Maria delighted everyone with a tender mother-daughter dance. This touching moment not only showcased their deep bond but also added a layer of intimate joy to the celebration, leaving guests moved and cherishing the warmth of family ties. Laughter and love were the evening’s motifs, which I was so honored to capture, ensuring these magical moments were immortalized for the couple and their families to cherish.

Maria and Cameron’s reception not only celebrated their new journey but did so with an elegance that was both breathtaking and deeply personal. Every moment was imbued with love, from the heartfelt speeches to the laughter and dancing that filled the hall until late into the evening. The reception was not just a celebration, but a beautiful testament to their story, which I was so grateful to be a part of.