A Serene and Romantic Wedding at Big Cedar Lodge with Colorful Floral Designs
Michael Green and Avery Jeffcoat’s love story began in an unexpected yet serendipitous way during their high school years in Bossier City, Louisiana. Avery, in her senior year, was instantly drawn to Michael, the intriguing new student. Their paths first crossed in a setting surrounded by friends, where a simple introduction sparked a connection that neither could have anticipated. What began as casual encounters soon blossomed into something much deeper, leading to a series of dates that would solidify their bond.
The Proposal
Years later, Michael chose a place filled with cherished memories to ask Avery the most important question of their lives. During their annual summer trip to Florida, a tradition they had upheld since their relationship began, Michael orchestrated a proposal that was as thoughtful as it was breathtaking. With the Gulf Coast as a stunning backdrop, Michael led Avery down a rose petal-lined pier, surrounded by the warm glow of candlelit lanterns and framed by illuminated "Marry Me" letters. The moment was perfectly timed and emotionally charged, marking the beginning of their journey toward marriage.
“The setting, enhanced by the exquisite floral designs, captured the essence of romance and serenity.”
The Wedding Planning Experience
Planning a wedding can be as exhilarating as it is challenging; and for Michael and Avery, the process was a journey of joyful anticipation. They envisioned a day that would not only reflect their love but also create an unforgettable experience for their guests.
The wedding was masterfully planned by Delia Jeffcoat of Delia Jeffcoat Events, who also happens to be Avery's mother. Her attention to detail and personal connection to the couple ensured that every aspect of the day was perfectly orchestrated. From the initial planning stages to the final moments of the evening, Delia's expertise was evident in every corner of the celebration.
Delia Jeffcoat Events worked closely with the talented floral designers from Colony House Flowers to create a truly breathtaking ambiance. The decor was a sophisticated blend of classic and contemporary styles, brought to life by Colony House's exquisite floral arrangements. At the ceremony, a grand entryway was adorned with garden roses, leading to doors crowned with lush wreaths. The centerpiece of the chapel was a cross, elegantly draped with ivory garden roses, which served as a stunning backdrop. The aisle was lined with a plentiful array of white blooms, creating a serene and ethereal atmosphere.
For the reception, Colony House Flowers transformed the space with vibrant and colorful arrangements. Periwinkle blue, peach, pink, lavender, and yellow flowers were artfully placed throughout the venue, adding a lively and joyful touch. A spectacular floral installation of pink, peach, and lavender garden roses, accented with light blue hydrangeas, hung over the dance floor, creating a focal point that left guests in awe. Dinner tables were flanked by cherry blossom trees, their bases adorned with complementary floral arrangements, seamlessly blending the natural beauty of the venue with the designer’s creative vision.
The Wedding Day
On April 27th, 2024, Michael and Avery’s wedding day unfolded with a sense of timeless beauty and emotional resonance. The morning began with a flurry of excitement as Avery and her bridesmaids prepared in the serene setting of the Cedar Creek Spa Bridal Suite. Clad in custom-made attire, they shared laughter and moments of quiet reflection before the day’s events truly began.
Avery and Michael's wedding was a grand celebration held at the breathtaking Integrity Hills Chapel at Big Cedar Lodge. Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, this iconic venue provided a serene backdrop for their nuptials. The chapel's stunning architecture and panoramic views set the tone for an event filled with elegance and sophistication.
“I have grown up going every year to Big Cedar Lodge at thanksgiving with my immediate and extended family where we would make countless memories together,” says Avery. “It is a place of comfort, rest, and recharge for all of us. Then when I met Michael, I got to bring him to our family’s favorite spot and he fell in love with it, too. We thought it was the perfect place to capture our love for one another because it is the place where we love making memories together. We thank God for bringing our families together and for always making everything better than we could have ever planned or imagined.”
The first look between Avery and Michael was a moment of intimate connection, a brief pause to savor the significance of the day ahead. This was followed by a ceremony that took place in a chapel overlooking the stunning Table Rock Lake. The setting, enhanced by the exquisite floral designs, captured the essence of romance and serenity. As Avery walked down the aisle, the emotions of the day culminated in a moment of pure joy, shared not only between the couple but also with their gathered loved ones.
“As the doors opened to walk down the aisle, I was completely blown away,” recalls Avery. “Not only did the chapel and the 16-foot cross adorned in white florals take my breath away, but also seeing all of our friends and family smiling and being so excited to be there. Looking at them and then my future husband at the end of the aisle made the happy tears roll as I tried to savor that precious moment.”
John Cain Photography was entrusted with capturing the day's moments. Renowned for their ability to blend timeless elegance with modern artistry, John Cain and his team ensured that every cherished memory was beautifully preserved. Their work added a layer of sophistication that complemented the overall aesthetic of the wedding.
Reception and Celebration
The reception, held under a clear-top tent that allowed guests to dine and dance beneath the stars, was a continuation of the day's elegance. The cake, crafted by Social Bites, was a work of art in itself featuring 13 tiers of Michael and Avery’s chosen flavors, lemon blueberry and chocolate. Guests were treated to a gourmet dinner, featuring a duet of locally sourced pork loin and braised beef short ribs, paired with carefully selected sides.
The evening’s entertainment was as meticulously planned as the rest of the day. From choreographed first dances to a surprise musical performance, each moment was designed to create lasting memories. The night ended with a sparkler exit, as Michael and Avery departed in a Ford Bronco Raptor, leaving their guests with a final, unforgettable image of a day filled with love and celebration.
A Dream Honeymoon
Following the wedding, Michael and Avery’s journey took them to Italy, where they explored the romantic landscapes of Lake Como, the historic streets of Rome, and the breathtaking cliffs of Positano. Each destination offered a new adventure, but the common thread was the deep connection they felt as they began their married life together.
Reflections on a Perfect Day
For Michael and Avery, their wedding was a dream realized – a perfect blend of love and tradition. It was a day where every detail, from the grand to the intimate, was carefully curated to reflect their journey together and the future they are building as a married couple. As they look back on the day, they do so with a sense of gratitude for the memories created and the love shared, not only between each other but also with their family and friends.
WEDDING TALENT
Location & Catering: Integrity Hills Chapel at Big Cedar Lodge; Planner: Delia Jeffcoat Events; Floral Design: Colony House Flowers; Rentals: Party Central Lafayette; Cake: Social Bites; Pillows: Party! Dallas; Linens: BBJ La Tavola; Wedding Dress: Allison Webb; Bridal Salon: Kleinfeld Bridal; Bridesmaids Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids; Groom’s Attire: John Pickens; Groomsmen Attire: Squires Formalwear; Mother-of-the-Bride Gown: Nardos; Hair & MUA: Artistry by Ashton; Invitations: Paper Tulip; Stationery: Designs by Kelly Avery, Priss Press, Please and Thank You Paper Co.; Dance Floor: The Dance Floor Man; Officiant: Corey Smith; Live Quartet: All Strings for Granted; Live Fashion Illustrator: ACA Event Designs; Live Wedding Painter: Torregrossa Fine Art; Entertainment: Evolution Party Band; Videography: Braniff Productions; Photography: John Cain Photography