The moment that Rachel laid eyes on the “I Do” Oak Tree at Bowing Oaks Plantation in Jacksonville, Fl, she knew that she would marry her best friend there. This outdoor space required no transformation as the richness of nature gracefully offered natural decor for Rachel and Trevor’s ceremony and a romantic backdrop for wedding photos.

A Puppy and a Proposal: The Perfect Day!

Everyone who knows Rachel and Trevor knows that they love dogs as much as they love college football. Trevor had a surprise in store for Rachel on the day they got their second dog, a husky puppy who they named Iris. It was already the best day ever! To celebrate their new addition, Trevor took Rachel to Ted’s for dinner, where they had their first date.

With sweet memories flooding back, Trevor suggested a walk on the beach despite the frigid February temperatures. Rachel remembered that the two had first exchanged “I love you,” on a similar walk in warmer times. Almost frozen and ready to head home, Rachel got the surprise of a lifetime when Trevor got down on one knee asked her to marry him! In the pitch black on a cold beach, Rachel made Trevor’s dreams come true with a big YES! It was a perfect day packed full of precious memories and new beginnings.

Bridal Preparations in The Dogwood Room

The Dogwood Room was designed to provide a private space for the bride and her bridesmaids before weddings at Bowing Oaks Plantation. The giggles and smiles practically never stopped for Rachel and her bridal party while Chudni of Paulina Perez Professional Hair and Makeup perfected the ladies’ soft curls and Rachel’s romantic low bun. Paulina Perez herself helped the beauty of each lady shine with her makeup artistry. Rachel opted for a classic look with a bold lip to show off her fearless spirit, which paired perfectly with her sleek and romantic fitted white gown from Amsale in New York. The sleeveless look showed off Rachel’s dedication to staying fit and the delicate white mesh back with little details like satin buttons and a flattering peplum added a crowning touch of femininity. Rachel was all dressed up and definitely had somewhere to go!

“My favorite part about the wedding day was getting ready with all of my bridesmaids and my mom. And then my favorite moment was when the doors opened and my dad walked my down the aisle and I saw Trevor’s reaction when he turned around to see me.”

Lace and Cigars

Ann Evans from Cypress Floral Design put together the most beautiful bouquets for Rachel’s bridesmaids. They featured a rich combination of natural forest greens, intense burgundy, and occasional whites. For the bride, Ann created a truly elegant bouquet of white roses which was delicately wrapped with the lace from Rachel’s mother’s veil.

Adding to the family traditions, Rachel wore a sixpence in her shoe from Trevor’s family. And staying true to themselves, the couple set up a sophisticated cigar bar on site, decorated in full vintage fashion. Classic novels held up a variety of cigars to choose from and highback rose velvet chairs lined the perimeter for smoking those stogies in style.

The “I Do” Oak Tree

A grand stone walkway at Bowing Oaks Plantation leads to the most majestic tree you’ve ever seen. The evening sun peeking through the surrounding forest of oaks and Spanish moss set the scene for a truly touching ceremony. Natural golden light reflected off the bridesmaids’ champagne colored gowns and the groomsmen’s burgundy velvet bow ties added warmth to the classic scene. Trevor donned a burgundy suit coat with black lapels, and was the sharpest looking man of the day. When Rachel began her journey down that stone path with her father by her side, her smile grew with each step closer to her best friend. Trevor’s reaction to his gorgeous bride should only be described in images.

Officiant Dan McClean delivered a beautiful message to the couple before uniting them in marriage. Two flower girls and two ring bearers exercised their attentiveness during the ceremony and guests enjoyed the cool February breeze. As the sun set in the background and the bridal party walked in the recession, Rachel and Trevor stopped in the center of the aisle to share a sweet newlywed kiss!

Before heading off to celebrate Rachel and Trevor, we took some fun photos with the tree swing on site, where the couple took a few moments to soak in the romance of the day. A giant flower wall provided backdrop for some more formal photos while guests enjoyed a cocktail hour with music by Kyle Wehrner Weddings.

Elegant Reception in the Oak Ballroom

The Oak Ballroom at Bowing Oaks Plantation truly brings nature inside and dresses her up for a party. Walnut colored chairs from Southern Charm Events complemented oak walls and rich golds and burgundy decor warmed up the space for an elegant and passionate style. Four chandeliers hung over the crowd reflecting the golden glow from the sunset. Fabric draped across the ceiling added luxury and romance, while four foot tall crystal and gold centerpieces with oversized flowers provided a stately appearance to each table.

Rachel embraced her sporty style with a quick change into a sleek white jumpsuit from Anthropologie Weddings, BHLDN. The plunging V neckline mimicked her bridal gown and the loose oversized pant-legs let our bride get down with her new hubby! During their first dance, our newlyweds seemed to be lost in happiness, giggling together and sharing the fun of the day. Rachel couldn’t take her eyes off Trevor all day, and vice versa.

Pastiche Catering provided a delectable plated meal for guests and the wedding party. The couple opted for a simple cake in a lightly iced style, but adorned with gorgeous flower details, including a floral crown on top. After enjoying the cake so lovingly made by Alley Cakes of Jacksonville, guests hit the dance floor to party with Rachel and Trevor. Some of the guys sneaked off to the cigar bar, but continued to enjoy the music provided by DJ Kevin Tos of Party Solutions Entertainment.

At one point, Rachel, wine glass in hand, took a seat on her mother’s lap and they shared the kind of laughs that only a mother and daughter could understand. The smiles of family and friends involved really stood out during this celebration and I’m certain that the shared joy will not be soon forgotten. We’re all wishing a lifetime of wins for the Gators and Bulldogs and a million more romantic moments shared between Mr. and Mrs. Lee!

“Just soak it all in. Take time for yourself during the day of, and just breathe. Everything will be perfect no matter what, and it’s a magical moment you will never get back and HAVE FUN!” – Rachel

More Favorite Images from Rachel and Trevor’s Wedding