Chapter 1: “Woodland Wander & Wedding Wonder”

Setting the scene: Today we highlight two amazing people becoming one. Although Lilyan and Brandon are city people, for their wedding day, they wanted to change things up. Enter "The Lodge at Waters Edge," established in 2022. Imagine a hidden lodge perched on a wooded hill, overlooking a shimmering creek that flows with the calm confidence of a spa—but in nature.

They drive into a wooded lane and emerge: wooden, leather bound chairs flanking a neutral, boho style aisle carpet, leading right to a cozy fireplace decked with glowing candles and rustic logs, a round carpet awaits at the end of the aisle as a perfect landing spot to profess their love. Above, floral vines and white roses, delicate blossoms clinging to a brown cross—solemn yet whimsical. To one side, piled wood and rocks with steps leading to a wooden dance floor, DJ awaiting his cue; to the other, a tall brick wall dotted with little green promises of life. Trees overhead twinkle with LED lights, and beyond to the left—the rushing creek, crystal clear, trees rising high across the hillside, a peaceful postcard waiting for its moment. And if that isn’t enough, there’s a multilevel platform where guests can soak in the view—or, modern times—take that perfect selfie.

Chapter 2: “Letters, Laughter & Lifelong Vows”

Tucked uphill sits a small orange cottage—“Gwen’s Cottage at Water's Edge” An orange door, mossy green roof, and petite black tables perched on a deck with black carpets—it’s rustic, charming, and just right. The bride and groom stand on either side of the wall: she’s reading him her vows, tears threatening her mascara (and she quips, “woo, there goes the makeup”), a perfect blend of emotional and comedic. She speaks, he melts. He speaks, she melts. They reach across the barrier, touching hands, bond sealed—poetic and adorable.

Inside the mini-house, groomsmen and father of the bride chatter amid blue and green walls. Black vests over crisp white shirts—ready and relaxed. 

Chapter 3: “The Promise” 

They kick off with a violin intro through speakers, flower girl scattering sentimentally dried rose petals like confetti, bride entering in her father’s arms, reverend begins with prayer, rings travel through the crowd as the couple solidifies “I do,” sealed with a kiss—and then the crowd erupts like they’ve just won the lottery of love. Just awesome!

From there: sweet mingling, photos by the water (someone jokes “push him in” cue laugh), guests chatting inside and out, fish swimming below, drinks flowing.

Chapter 4: “The toast zone” 

The main lodge they saw upon arrival—think wooden floors, mid century green-cushioned chairs, mini shot glasses stamped “take a shot, we tied the knot,” name-tagged plates, head table adorned “forever and always,” swans, pearls, mirrors, candles, fireplaces, speakers, dessert tables, plant vases, architectural clocks—deep exhale. A cozy, expressive, slightly quirky reception hub complete with a mini memorial of loved ones (“In loving memory”) and a guest book equipped with stickers and sharpies for added personality and charm. Personal-style cake cutting: bride teases, “This is so weird,” they laugh through the cake, share a kiss.  

Chapter 5: “Party Time” 

Tiki torches lit, fire pit flickers, bride-groom, father-daughter, groom-sister dances, followed by a special tribute to the bride’s parents- 55 years and still going strong! Then, full-floor fun— as “old time rock and roll” gets everyone stepping in sync. After a quick wardrobe change, Lilyan- from classic ivory lace to flowing white chiffon,  Brandon- proudly stepped back onto the scene, with a new shirt making its debut, looking crisp and symbolizing the couple's evolution: "Boyfriend, Fiance', and Husband." 

 End game: “Dancing Queen” plays, farewell hugs abound, tree-lit outdoors echoing laughter and footsteps. Surprise: a custom song Brandon commissioned—“You’re more than my love, you’re my everything”—and they sway to that, captured on couches, forest sources through windows, smiles that say “this is home.”