Reneta and Darrian’s July wedding felt like stepping into the most glamorous Hollywood party. From the bride’s fully custom wedding dress to live entertainment by Alabama icon Ruben Studdard, every moment was memorable to the max. Luxury event planner Brittany McAlpin Sharp with The Sharp Standard executed every detail flawlessly, while Atlanta wedding photographer Andre Brown beautifully captured the emotions from the day.

Reneta got ready wearing an elegant white bridal robe with feather trim, while her bridesmaids wore satin monogrammed bridesmaids robes--we love how their white wedding fans make for a photo-worthy moment! Makeup artist Portia Nichole did Reneta’s bridal makeup with a bold berry lip, and hair stylist Brandi Frye-Odom styled Reneta’s hair into glamorous old Hollywood-style curls. The crystal bridal headpiece and accessories by Ai and Eva were the perfect finishing touch to complete Reneta’s elegant bridal look.

For her designer wedding dress, Reneta wanted something truly one-of-a-kind that would shine as much as she does. To create a nude illusion wedding dress, our designers started with our Meghan Augusta silhouette, a trumpet wedding dress with a dramatic flared skirt and horsehair trim at the bottom. We created a custom sheer top to complement Reneta’s skin tone and serve as the base for a stunning crystal-beaded lace that Reneta selected herself. We source unique beaded lace panels from all over the world, and each of our brides gets to choose which one best suits her vision for a wedding dress with sparkle.

The true magic of Reneta’s custom wedding dress is the behind-the-scenes work that went into it. Our lead designer Elizabeth cut, placed, and pinned each piece of beadwork by hand on Reneta’s body to sculpt the beading to her figure. Every section was mirrored to create a symmetrical design that flowed along the neckline and down the hips of the dress. Our team of dress artisans then sewed each delicate piece of beading by hand to create a true couture wedding dress. Reneta wore her designer wedding dress like a queen, and we were honored to create this custom gown for her!

To complement his bride, Darrian looked dapper in his black and white tuxedo by Miguel Wilson Collections --we love how the luxe black velvet lapels and buttons match the glamour of Reneta’s gown. Local barber Shannon Jackson had Darrian and his groomsmen looking suave for the wedding day, and their navy blue groomsmen suits looked striking alongside the ladies’ one-shoulder black bridesmaids dresses. The modern white orchid bouquets tied everything together beautifully.

Reneta and Darrian exchanged vows at Park Crest, a popular Birmingham wedding venue with outdoor views. This venue allows for the chairs to be arranged in a circular pattern with the altar in the middle, which makes for a unique wedding ceremony setup. The gorgeous decor with gold accents by Andy Beach & Co. brought the space to life. Following a bright and romantic ceremony, the room transformed into a sultry, elegant reception that resembled an old Hollywood lounge. The abundant white floral centerpieces popped against blue velvet drapery, and the gold Chivari chairs and sky-high candle centerpieces added a dose of drama. The art deco-inspired stationery by Paper Wonders were a perfect match for the reception design.

A few of our favorite details from the reception were the awards show-worthy 360-degree photobooth by Platinum ENT and the cigar truck by Ashe's Mobile Cigar Lounge. Every detail was beautifully coordinated, from the custom dancefloor wedding monogram to the sky-high dark blue wedding cake by local bakery K & J's Elegant Pastries, which featured gold accents and a spray of white flowers that wrapped around the center. Music was a major part of Reneta and Darrian’s wedding, as they had multiple musical acts performing throughout the night. In addition to American Idol winner Ruben Studdard, the wedding included performances by Orchestra Noir and DJ J² Entertainment. Videographer FWD Weddings captured the story of the night so that the couple will forever have a treasured video to remember their day.

It is a treat to share Reneta’s stunning wedding on our blog, and we wish this wonderful couple all the best as they embark on married life!