A Luxe Wedding at an Arboretum in Dallas, Texas

The Magic Garden

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is listed among the top arboretums in the world; Kerri and Bravion knew it was the right venue for them almost immediately. Beyond the lush, garden-filled setting, the weather also provided a pretty backdrop for the big day. Though it rained heavily for three straight days prior to the wedding, the skies magically cleared for their weekend nuptials. "God heard our prayers and answered with a perfect Sunday! It wasn't too hot, humid, or cold—it was just right," says the bride.

Family Time

Since all of Kerri's bridesmaids were her sisters, the bridal party spent quality family time while getting ready for the celebration.

The Dress

Kerri spotted her Casablanca wedding dress at a local boutique and immediately knew that it was the one; its price tag only reaffirmed this (it was majorly on sale!). She accesorized her voluminous ball gown with a headpiece, an heirloom given to her by her mother-in-law. For her "something blue," she wore her Grandma Naomi's turquoise ring.

The Rings

Both of the couple's wedding bands were purchased at Mark Samuel Jewelers;each matched their individual personalities. Kerri went for something subtle to match her dainty engagement ring, while Bravion opted for a bold, braided design.

Practical Shoes

Kerri knew she wanted to be comfortable and present during the ceremony, so she slipped into a pair of glittery slippers for her walk down the aisle (she wasn't going to risk a fall, either!). She was up for the high-heel challenge during the reception, though—she changed into a pair of see-through Jessica Rich Collection pumps right before the festivities began.

Women in White

Kerri embraced the all-white bridesmaid dress trend fully. Her sisters all donned matching, halter-neck gowns from David's Bridal.

Looking Sharp

Bravion wanted a one-of-a-kind big-day ensemble, so he had a burgundy velvet suit custom-made by Connaisseur Paris. He finished off his look with a Chanel brooch and a pair of loafers from Saks Fifth Avenue. The groomsmen consisted of Bravion's best friends; they wore suits from Jos A. Bank.

Flower Girls

The flower girls matched the bridesmaids in white. They accessorized their sweet dresses with beribboned flower crowns.

Here Comes the Bride

Kerri's father escorted her down the aisle to Brian McKnight's "Never Felt This Way." Bravion was overcome by his bride's beauty, he says.

Personal Vows

Kerri and Bravion's officiant, Quintin Draper—he's one of the groom's close friend—calmed their nerves before they recited their handwritten vows.

Little Nooks in the Garden

Thanks to the garden backdrop, the couple's portraits were beautifully verdant. They had fun looking for special, photo-worthy nooks throughout the lush property.

The Romantic Reception

The reception—which was designed and executed by Belle Decor—reflected both the bride and groom's personal styles. "I love the calm and romantic feel of all-white and Bravion loves bold, luxurious colors, so he chose a velvety red and golds. Those combinations spoke to both of our personalities and also led to an elegant, dreamy feel." White tablecloths, gold chairs, and rose centerpieces brought this joint vision to life.

All About the Details

A sparkly gold runner highlighted the centerpieces' brass vessels; floating votive candles imbued the reception space with romance.

The First Dance

Kerri and Bravion couldn't pick just one song for their first dance, so they danced to a medley of Piles' "Rock," along with Daniel Caesar's "All I Need, Miguel" and "Skywalker."

The Golden Cake

The duo's Delicious Cakes five-tier (a mix of almond, raspberry, and strawberry flavors) fit the romantic and luxurious theme of the day. The gold-encrusted tiers matched the runners on the tabletops, while a red rose topper nodded to the event's floral palette.

The Getaway Car

At the end of the night, Kerri and Bravion hopped into their getaway car completely spent. Shortly after the bgi day, they traveled to Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand for their honeymoon.

As for the duo's best advice to couples currently planning their wedding? "I learned that the little touches make the difference in the final outcome," says Kerri.

Sources

Photography, Pharris Photography
Venue, Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Flowers, design, lighting, and rentals, Belle Decor
Catering, Gil's Catering
Officiant, Quintin Draper
Stationery, Minted
Cake, Delicious Cakes
Music, DJ Bowtie
Bride's gown, Casablanca
Bride's accessories, Jessica Rich Collection
Hair, Tony Harper (men's), Keisha Gardner & Kelisha Rose (women's)
Makeup, Jamie Dionne
Bridesmaids' dresses, David's Bridal
Groom's suit, Connaisseur Paris
Groom's accessories, Chanel (brooch), Saks Fifth Avenue (shoes)
Menswear, Jos A. Bank