Taking the Plunge
Stephanie McKeeman and George Varney
April 24, 2010
Communication and compromise are the cornerstones of a successful marriage. In planning their wedding day, Stephanie McKeeman and Tom Varney took those marriage tenets to heart and incorporated favorites from both sides of the aisle, as well as the groom's two children.
The bride's preference for feminine purple was tempered with the groom's 'camo and camping' style. Call it 'flora and fauna' chic. Not only did it 'work' aesthetically, merging the bride's and groom's tastes actually created a bonding experience for the entire family.
Take the groom's cake. Stephanie and her soon-to-be stepdaughter visualized a camping-themed cake as a surprise for the groom. Explains Stephanie, the team at Ambrosia "modeled the cake and people using photographs of our actual tent, and the bride, groom, kids and dog."
Tom's son designed purple athletic shoes for the bride, emblazoned with the phrase "Tie the Knot." Stephanie wore them throughout much of the reception, saying, "My Converse were a comfortable and fun alternative designed by my wonderful stepson."
The couple took great care in designing an event that would demonstrate their happiness with the blending of their families. Rather than the traditional garter and bouquet tosses, they created a dedication ceremony during which they presented the kids with the bouquet and the garter.
Following a gourmet meal, the family and their guests enjoyed dancing, and a little surprise entertainment. At the end of the evening, they led a conga line of guests out to the pool, and literally took the plunge--wedding attire and all! The spontaneous pool party was followed by a quick change of clothes and a continuation of the festivities.
In an upscale twist on the much-loved camping tradition of making s'mores, the couple invited their guests to join them at 11 pm to make s'mores together around the firepits. They created adorable favor bags with the fixings for a sweet finale, bearing an invitation to "join us for s'more fun."
Location:
Sheraton Tucson Hotel & Suites
Floral Design:
Elaine Taylor Fine Flowers
Photography:
Something Blue Photography
Videography:
Soltero Productions
cake:
Ambrosia of Tucson
Entertainment:
DJ Warren B. and Canyon Quartet
Make Up Artist and Hair Stylist:
Artisan Salon
Transportation:
Xtreme Limousine
Rehearsal Dinner:
El Corral
Bridal Gown:
A Tailor Tuxedo and Bridal Shop
Bridesmaid Gowns:
Alfred Angelo
Rentals:
Celebrations by Silvia
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