Luminous Lights & Love - Q&A with Ariana Simms of Aisle Be With You - 405 Magazine

Luminous Lights & Love – Q&A with Ariana Simms of Aisle Be With You

Reza and Nicole's intimate Fall wedding was a wedding very near and dear to our hearts.

Photo by Amanda Watson Photography

Reza and Nicole’s intimate Fall wedding was a wedding very near and dear to our hearts. From the first meeting with the clients, I felt an instant connection to them and the meaning behind the wedding they wanted to create. It was very important to the couple that we designed around the word “intention”. The wedding took place on a Thursday late afternoon at Gaillardia Country Club, and eight-five of their closest friends and family were in attendance. Everyone that celebrated their love that night, was a part of their special connection and journey to husband and wife. Trust was a large factor in this wedding since we achieved the design and coordination in under three months of planning. Nicole and Reza wanted to create a romantic ambiance which valued lots of lighting and reflective surfaces in details. Bella Flora out of Dallas, Texas was the florist behind the beautiful blooms and the stunning, modern candelabras. The candles brought drama to the space, but added height to the tall ballroom ceilings. The couple shared a beautiful first dance, and some of the sweested toasts were made that evening. Overall, an evening of elegance and special memories to last them a lifetime. 

Color Palette:

Gold, White, and Hunter Green

List of vendors:

Event name: Reza and Nicole Koranki

Event planner(s): Ariana Simms with Aisle Be With You

Venue(s): Gaillardia Country Club

Photographer: Amanda Watson Photography

Entertainment: OKC Entertainment 

Rentals: Marianne’s Rentals and Bella Acento

Catering: Gaillardia Country Club

Cake: Amy Cakes

Stationary: Eros Studios

Videography: Leslee Layton Films

Bridal Gown: JJ Kelly Bridal

Hair and Makeup: Lexi McDonald Artistry

Signage Production: Wooden Hearts Boutique

Florist: Bella Flora of Dallas

Photo by Amanda Watson Photography

What was the inspiration for the event?

The inspiration was an elegant and luminous occasion.

How far in advance did you start planning?

Three months in advance. 

How/why did you choose the various vendors?

We selected the vendor team based off of the connections that Reza and  Nicole formed with each vendor. We guided them to who we felt would achieve their vision best with the few months we had left to plan. Reza and Nicole walked away knowing that everyone was a trusted and valued professional.

Photo by Amanda Watson Photography

What made this event special?

The event was special due to the intimate guest count. We love creating weddings for 300+ guests, but sometimes a wedding under 100 guests really allows us to bring all the client’s dreams to life. 

What surprised you?

Nicole’s reaction when she saw her ballroom for the first time was absolutely heartwarming. Leslee Layton Films captured that moment for us all to have forever. 

Photo by Amanda Watson Photography

What was one roadblock or setback?

The Oklahoma weather is always unpredictable which the forecast was set to be in the 40s for the ceremony. We continued with initial plans of having it outdoors and ordered white shawls for guest to have at their seats. We were all so thankful we kept the original plans since the photos Amanda Watson captured during the ceremony and the drone shots were breathtaking. 

Photo by Amanda Watson Photography

What were the highlights of the event for you?

As a designer and planner, we can be hired to create a new vision for the same venue often. Their guest count allowed me to configure the space differently for the reception, and the ceremony was a forever favorite since I had always envisioned a bride walking down the back staircase facing the golf course. It was truly magical to see our bride, Nicole, walk down with her father for her grand entrance. 

Photo by Amanda Watson Photography

Were there any special requests or requirements?

The client had requested to include several reflective surfaces which were brought in through mirrored king’s tables from Bella Acento out of Dallas, as well as custom mirror tops created by Marianne’s Rentals. Another important request was to have the tall candles that are seen in the images. Bella Floral out of Dallas knocked it out of the park with their vision and execution.

Photo by Amanda Watson Photography

What are your go-to vendors in OKC that you always recommend?

We love working with several amazing Oklahoma vendors, that were featured at this wedding. It is important to us, to always curate a team of vendors that will be the best fit for our clients vision.

Photo by Amanda Watson Photography