Having a Ball
Susan Lied & Jason Keesling
October 28, 2011
The famous saying is "when in Rome, do as the Romans do." When Susan Lied and Jason Keesling wed last October, they chose to do as the Venetians do, by hosting a sumptuous masquerade ball.
The couple only hinted at the carnival to come with their unique wedding invitations featuring a Venetian mask. When guests arrived, however, they quickly discovered that this would be no ordinary wedding. A mime in white Victorian dress greeted guests at Villa Siena, where an outdoor ceremony included touches of Italian glamour.
Susan chose an opulent antique gold European-inspired gown, while her attendants wore black dresses. Guests entered to a classical composition, "Carnival of Venice," while the bridal party processing was the "Love Theme" from The Godfather. The bride's processional was "Ti Sposaro Perche'" by Italian singer Eros Ramozzati. The song translates to "I will marry you because . . ."
Blooms were replaced with plumes in the artistically inspired bouquets and centerpieces. Susan’s bridal bouquet featured a collection of ivory feathers, accented with red and gold. Bridesmaids carried feather bouquets while reception tables featured dramatic arrangements of black ostrich plumes. In lieu of a flower girl, a "princess" rounded out the wedding party. As she came up the aisle, she presented each of the mothers with a blown-glass necklace.
Following a cocktail hour, a costumed Court Jester and Stiltwalker joined the Mime in leading guests to the Grand Ballroom for the masquerade reception, which included Carnevale-style entertainment. The place settings in the spectacular black and white decorated room included a traditional Venetian mask for each guest to wear during the party. Newlyweds Susan and Jason were introduced wearing their own exotic hand-made masks.
The menu consisted of delicious Italian fare served family style in large bowls for sharing around each table. Pasta sauces in the colors of the Italian flag (white, red and green) added to the Italian flavor of the evening. The groom's favorite caprese salad was a natural addition to the menu.
Capping off the memorable evening was a spectacular custom cake designed as two ornate pillows topped with a paper mache’ mask.
Location:
Villa Siena
Photographer:
Sierra Blanco Photography
Cake:
Piece of Cake Desserts
DJ:
Citron Sound
Hair Styling and Makeup Artist:
Dolce Salon & Spa |
