When your first date is a candlelit picnic in a cemetery followed by a tour of some of your city’s most haunted spots, it only makes sense that your wedding day would be totally spook-tacular!
Kristi + Justin’s October wedding in Orlando was an elevated and elegant take on that first date. With the help of planners from Wilder Mind Events, they filled The Howey Mansion (a Mediterranean Revival masterpiece of a venue built in the 1920’s) with all kinds of macabre and frightfully fabulous details.
“We strive to be like the Addams Family,” say Kristi + Justin, “gothic, unique, true to ourselves, and endlessly in love with each other.”
There was a stunning black lace wedding gown. There were carved pumpkin table numbers. There was an alligator ring bearer. (!!!) And photographer Stephanie Lanni was there behind the camera, catching it all.
Let’s get into all the tricks and treats of Kristi + Justin’s big day!!
Kristi knew the stylists at AB2B Boutique already, and they totally understood the black dress vibe she was searching for. They introduced her to this stunning strapless mermaid gown. “I was worried a black dress wouldn’t feel bridal,” says Kristi, “but once the veil was on I knew it was perfect.”
By the Bay Floral absolutely understood the Halloween-inspired assignment. This black-and-orange bridal bouquet is taking our breath away!!
Check out our list of 27 Fall bridesmaid dresses for the dreamiest autumn vibes to entertain the idea of moody maroon or oxblood bridesmaid dresses like the ones Kristi’s besties are rocking!
Nonstop gothic glamor!! Explore our collection of 45 elegant black wedding dresses sure to wow.
Everyone, meet Sweetie the alligator!!
The couple paid homage to Kristi’s work as a former zoo keeper and her love of reptiles by having an alligator as the ring bearer! “I made a custom cabernet colored dress for Sweetie,” says Kristi, “to match the bridal party.”
“Before the ceremony began, Sweetie took a brief nap on my lap,” Kristi says. “It was a really peaceful moment during a wonderful but busy day.”
The Ceremony
These Halloween-tone florals look so at home on the stone steps of this historic mansion.
Our Musical Choices Processional: "Halloween Theme" from the film "Halloween" +"Cry Little Sister" from the film "The Lost Boys" (piano covers by Stephen Beerkens)
Recessional: "This is Halloween" by Danny Elfman (from the film "The Nightmare Before Christmas")
First Dance: "Kiss From A Rose" by Seal (from the film "Batman Forever")
Justin’s black brocade velvet suit from StudioSuits is 100% Gomez Addams in his groom era.
Take a look at our guide on how to throw a sophisticated + spooky soirée this Halloween if Kristi + Justin’s wedding has you inspired to do some otherworldly entertaining this spooky season!
It’s Tasty Too created a gothic-tiered wedding cake in Kristi + Justin’s colors that featured skeletal caricatures of the bride + groom!
The couple’s 66 guests enjoyed a feast from Arthur’s and festive carved pumpkin table numbers!
Kristi and her dad’s father daughter dance to “Edge of Seventeen” featured an iconic Stevie Nicks inspired shawl moment!!
Check out 103 father daughter dance songs to play at your wedding if you’re still searching for that special track.
Congratulations, Kristi + Justin!! Your Halloween-inspired wedding was hauntingly romantic! All the best from GWS!
photography: Stephanie Lanni Photography // venue name: Howey Mansion, The Howey Mansion, Florida, USA // planning: Wilder Mind Events // florals: By the Bay Floral // wedding dress boutique: AB2B Boutique // bride’s ring: Taylor and Hart // hair stylist: Promising Looks // makeup artist: Moonstone Artistry // groom attire: Studio Suits // groom’s ring: Taylor and Hart // paper goods: Zazzle // catering: Arthur’s Catering // cake: Its Tasty Too // music: Our DJ Rocks // photo booth: Our DJ Rocks // alligator ring bearer: Sweetie the Alligator