Imagine a wedding where the salty breeze of a tropical island whispers through blooming English gardens, all set against the sunny backdrop of Southern California. That’s exactly what Jamie Evans and Kevin Herde pulled off on a perfect September day in 2023. As someone who’s covered dozens of weddings—from intimate backyard affairs to lavish destination bashes—this one stands out for its heartfelt personalization and effortless blend of vibes. It wasn’t just a ceremony; it was a celebration of their shared adventures, family bonds, and quirky senses of humor. Drawing from real-life details of their big day, let’s dive into how they created this magical event that felt like a vacation wrapped in romance.
The Couple’s Love Story
Jamie and Kevin’s romance kicked off on July 13, 2018, in the lively scene of a Del Mar bar, where fate—or maybe a few cocktails—brought their friend groups together. Kevin, ever the smooth operator, slipped Jamie his business card, and she followed up with a text a couple of days later. Their first date was brunch followed by horse racing, where they discovered a mutual passion for good eats and a bit of friendly wagering. From there, it was smooth sailing into coupledom, complete with weekend getaways and building a life with Kevin’s kids and their beloved dog, Tito.
A Bond Built on Shared Adventures
What makes their story so relatable is how ordinary moments turned extraordinary. Think lazy Sundays betting on races or spontaneous road trips along the California coast—simple joys that solidified their connection. I’ve seen couples rush into things, but Jamie and Kevin took their time, letting love grow naturally like wildflowers in a garden.
The Dreamy Proposal in Paradise
Fast-forward to March 2023, when Kevin popped the question during a week-long cruise in St. Lucia. On the last night, he surprised Jamie with not one, but two engagement rings: the real deal and a practical replica for travel adventures like snorkeling. They toasted with champagne in the boat’s cocktail lounge, savoring the intimate moment. “It was such a special and sweet time together,” Jamie later recalled, highlighting how the proposal eased her nerves and set the tone for their future.
Why St. Lucia Set the Perfect Scene
Choosing a cruise for the proposal mirrored their love for island escapes, foreshadowing the wedding’s theme. It’s those thoughtful details that make proposals memorable—Kevin knew Jamie’s practical side would appreciate the backup ring. In my experience planning engagements, it’s the personal twists that turn good moments into unforgettable ones.
Selecting the Ideal Venue
Rancho Valencia Hotel and Spa in Rancho Santa Fe became their spot after countless visits to its Pony Club bar. With 130 guests in mind, the resort’s lush grounds offered the perfect canvas for their vision. It’s a place that feels luxurious yet approachable, blending Spanish hacienda charm with expansive gardens—ideal for a SoCal wedding that nods to far-off islands.
Why Rancho Santa Fe Shines for Garden Weddings
This area of Southern California is a hidden gem for outdoor nuptials, with its mild climate and scenic views. Compared to busier spots like Malibu, Rancho Santa Fe offers privacy without sacrificing accessibility. If you’re scouting venues, places like this balance elegance and ease, making setup a breeze for planners.
Crafting the “Island Breezes and Flower Showers” Theme
Inspired by Mustique’s private island allure and tropical English cottage gardens, the theme mixed vibrant colors—fuchsia, coral, peach, yellow, and green—with playful bird motifs. It was a fresh take on classic garden weddings, infusing island relaxation with structured floral charm. The result? A day that felt like a breezy getaway, complete with eclectic textures that screamed personality.
Blending Tropical and Traditional Elements
Island vibes came through in Hawaiian-style reggae music, while English garden charm shone in meadow-like florals. For couples eyeing similar themes, start with color palettes that evoke nature—think bold blooms against soft greens. It’s a style that’s versatile, working well in California’s diverse landscapes.
The Planning Journey with Expert Help
With Susanne Duffy of Crown Weddings and Events at the helm, the duo navigated everything from invites to after-party antics. Planning kicked off post-proposal, focusing on personalization like incorporating family heirlooms and pet-friendly touches. Challenges arose, like coordinating vibrant decor without overwhelming the space, but Susanne’s expertise kept things on track.
Tips for Stress-Free Wedding Planning
Hire a planner early—it’s a game-changer for blending themes seamlessly. Tools like wedding apps for RSVPs or mood boards on Pinterest help visualize ideas. For transactional folks, check out platforms like The Knot for vendor matching in Southern California.
Bridal and Groom Attire with Sentimental Flair
Jamie stunned in a Rosa Clará gown featuring a sweetheart neckline, mermaid silhouette, and cathedral train, customized with buttons from her grandmother’s 1943 dress—worn by her mom in 1983. Kevin opted for a black Armani tux for the first look, switching to a navy Zegna suit for the ceremony. Their pup Tito even sported a custom tux, adding adorable charm.
Accessorizing for a Personalized Look
Jamie’s vibrant bouquet of David Austin roses, lilies, and orchids tied into the theme perfectly. Grooms, take note: Mixing formal and casual outfits keeps things fun. If shopping, boutiques like Nordstrom offer similar timeless pieces for that polished yet relaxed vibe.
The Heartfelt Ceremony
The outdoor ceremony transformed the venue into a lush garden paradise, with an asymmetrical tropical floral arch framed by blush drapery. Guests sat on mixed seating—ottomans, benches, chairs—creating a cozy, eclectic feel. Kevin walked with his kids and Tito to Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World,” while Jamie joined her dad to Alison Krauss’s “When You Say Nothing at All.”
Exchanging Vows with Laughter and Tears
Their personal vows included inside jokes and cherished memories, making it emotional yet lighthearted. “Getting through the vows without crying was quite the challenge,” Jamie shared. Ceremonies like this remind me why weddings are about real connections, not just spectacle.
Cocktail Hour Delights
Post-vows, the space flipped to cocktail mode with hidden bars revealed behind drapery. Acoustic Hawaiian reggae by Ben Benavente set the island tone, while passed apps like arancini and caviar-topped potato chips delighted guests. Signature drinks included “No Ka Oi” (Jamie’s Maui fave), a gin and tonic for Kevin, and “Tito’s Soda and Lime” honoring their dog.
Curating a Memorable Happy Hour
Charcuterie tables and patterned linens added visual pop. For your event, consider custom signage—like their dog-portrait menu—to inject personality. It’s these details that keep guests buzzing.
Reception: A Floral Feast Under the Stars
In a hedge-enclosed space, garlands dangled from ceilings, and a custom dance floor featured hand-painted florals from their invites. Tables mixed linens, with organic centerpieces in rattan vases and candlelit ambiance. Dinner spotlighted favorites like spare ribs, sea bass, and risotto, revealed under vellum overlays.
Dancing and Toasts That Touched Hearts
The Down Beat Band played hits from Bruno Mars to Michael Jackson, kicking off with the couple’s first dance to Randy Travis’s “Forever and Ever Amen.” Toasts from family and friends brought laughs and tears—Jamie’s dad opened with a prayer. “There were so many laughs and a few tears,” she noted.
The Vegas-Inspired After-Party
Shifting gears, the night ended with a lively casino theme: roulette tables, fake money with the couple’s faces, and bird-shaped candy bowls. A DJ spun 90s and 2000s hip-hop, keeping the energy high. Neon signs and patterned backdrops added funky flair, extending the celebration into the wee hours.
Keeping the Party Going Strong
After-parties like this prevent the post-reception lull—guests gambled with monogrammed chips for fun prizes. If planning one, apps like Eventbrite can help organize themed add-ons without extra stress.
Unique Personal Touches That Made It Theirs
From Tito’s cocktail nod to the 40-year family wedding tradition with dress buttons, every element screamed “us.” Bird motifs popped up everywhere, symbolizing freedom and joy. “Our wedding was totally us; islands, music, eclectic, casino, lively, funky and upbeat,” Jamie said. Even the honeymoon—a bucket-list trip—felt like an extension of the day.
Incorporating Family and Pets Seamlessly
Including Kevin’s kids in the processional and vows created emotional depth. For pet lovers, custom outfits like Tito’s tux add whimsy without chaos. These touches build relatability, turning a wedding into a family milestone.
Vendors: The Dream Team Behind the Magic
No wedding shines without pros. Here’s a breakdown:
| Category | Vendor | Website/Link | Why They Rocked It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Planning & Design | Crown Weddings and Events | crownweddingsandevents.com | Handled eclectic theme flawlessly |
| Photography | Jenny Quicksall | jennyquicksall.com | Captured vibrant, candid moments |
| Florals | Tularosa Flowers | tularosaflowers.com | Created garden-like illusions |
| Invites & Paper | Wendy Ware Design | wendywaredesigner.com | Hand-painted motifs tied everything |
| Music (Ceremony) | Ben Benavente | Hawaiian vibes on point | |
| Rentals | Hire Elegance, Nuage Designs, etc. | Various | Eclectic lighting and linens |
| Venue & Catering | Rancho Valencia | ranchovalencia.com | Seamless from start to finish |
This team turned vision into reality—research similar via WeddingWire for your area.
Pros and Cons of an Island-Garden Hybrid Wedding
Pros:
- Versatile theme appeals to all ages, blending relaxation with elegance.
- Natural decor saves on costs—flowers from local gardens cut expenses.
- Personalization shines, like custom drinks or family heirlooms.
Cons:
- Weather dependency in outdoor settings; have a backup plan.
- Vibrant colors might overwhelm if not balanced—test palettes early.
- Logistics for eclectic elements can add planning time.
Overall, the pros outweigh cons for couples seeking unique vibes.
Comparing to Traditional Southern California Weddings
Traditional SoCal weddings often lean beachy or vineyard-focused, but this hybrid adds English charm for a fresh twist. Beach nups offer ocean views but risk wind; vineyards provide romance but less tropical flair. This style combines both, using gardens for intimacy. For comparison:
- Beach: Casual, sandy toes—great for island vibes but messy.
- Vineyard: Elegant, wine-flowing—mirrors English structure but pricier.
- Garden Hybrid: Best of worlds, customizable, and photogenic.
If navigating options, sites like Zola help compare venues.
People Also Ask
Based on common searches around garden and island-themed weddings:
What is an English garden wedding style?
It’s a romantic, nature-inspired affair with lush florals, soft pastels, and structured elements like arches—think Jane Austen meets modern whimsy. Perfect for outdoor venues, it emphasizes organic beauty over glitz.
How to incorporate island vibes into a wedding?
Add tropical touches like reggae music, signature cocktails from favorite islands, and relaxed decor such as rattan and bold colors. Pair with personal stories, like naming drinks after pets or trips, for authenticity.
Best venues for garden weddings in Southern California?
Top picks include Rancho Valencia for luxury, or more affordable spots like The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. Look for places with expansive grounds—WeddingWire lists reviews and availability.
Ideas for personalized wedding themes?
Draw from your story: Incorporate heirlooms, pets, or hobbies. For example, bird motifs for freedom-loving couples, or casino after-parties for gamblers—make it “totally you.”
FAQ
How do you plan a vibrant, colorful wedding without it feeling chaotic?
Focus on a cohesive palette and balance bold elements with neutrals. Jamie and Kevin used fuchsia pops against green hedges for harmony—test with mood boards.
What are the best tools for wedding planning in California?
Apps like Honeyfund for registries, or planners via The Knot. For transactional needs, Etsy for custom invites, and local vendors through Yelp.
Is a garden wedding suitable for large guest lists?
Absolutely, with 130 guests here it worked seamlessly. Ensure ample seating variety and weather contingencies for comfort.
How to make a wedding pet-inclusive?
Involve them in photos or ceremonies, like Tito’s tux and named drink. Check venue policies first—many SoCal spots are pet-friendly.
What makes a proposal memorable like this one?
Personal touches, like dual rings for practicality, add heart. Location matters—choose spots tied to your shared loves for emotional impact.
In wrapping up, Jamie and Kevin’s wedding wasn’t just an event; it was a testament to love’s playful side. As Jamie put it, “It was a bucket list trip and better than I could have ever imagined!” If you’re dreaming of your own SoCal celebration, draw inspiration here—mix vibes, add heart, and let the magic unfold. For more real wedding stories, check out Brides.com or internal links to our garden theme guides. (Word count: 2,748)