Liz Larsen and Danny Andino’s Romantic Boho Wedding Captured by Charla Storey Photography

When Liz first heard Danny’s voice over the phone, she was excited. He had been vacationing in California when a mutual friend suggested he ask Liz out. Both had attended the same church in Dallas, but hadn’t met in person. Liz and Danny hit things off, and soon began talking frequently. After a memorable date – Liz lost her phone during a Dallas Mavericks game and didn’t have her contacts in rendering her unable to read the dinner menu – the couple felt an undeniable spark that would lead them on their romantic path to forever.

Following an action-packed Mavericks game, Danny wanted to know more about the striking Liz who could care less about losing her phone. Their conversation continued at Urban Taco where the pair discussed their shared faith and Liz’s precious daughter, Olive. Both had made mistakes in past relationships and their hearts were ready to make this particularly special one work. So began Liz and Danny’s love story.

Early on, they enjoyed going to sporting events and dining out. They loved to hang out in Dallas and traveled when they could. Liz loved being around the sociable Danny; wherever the couple went, they ran into a friend or acquaintance of his. Danny could tell right away that Liz has a true devotion to the lord and her daughter, both attractive qualities. Danny recalls early in their relationship feeling as though his heart was prepared and excited to be the father figure in Olive’s life.

When it came time to plan the proposal, Danny romantically recreated the night of their eventful first date. Luckily, Liz didn’t lose her phone and was prepared with proper eyewear. Danny pulled some strings and was able to pop the question at the American Airlines Center between Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Stars games much like the scene from Sweet Home Alabama. Under the guise that they were selecting seats for the following basketball season, and surrounded by a housekeeping staff and a photographer in hiding, Danny asked Liz to be his wife. She excitedly said yes as cheers echoed throughout the arena. Family and close friends gathered at Urban Taco for a celebratory evening to honor the newly engaged couple.

Wedding planning began quickly as they were ready to get married and become a family. To accommodate the couple’s timeline as well as their friend’s busy schedules, winter was selected as the season. Liz and Danny settled on a wedding plan that fit both of them: she envisioned an intimate garden ceremony while he pictured a large-scale event with an endless guest list. The Cotton Mill in McKinney ended up being the perfect venue.

Liz wanted a simple, stylish dress for her special day and she found it in a gorgeous fit and flare gown. She had a custom-made belt added to her dress to add some glitz. She also wanted to find the right dress for Olive – something sweet, but not overly fluffy. She found an impeccable dress for her daughter that complemented her own gown. She opted for neutral hues for the color palette, as she wanted her photos to look timeless.

Planner Lindsey Brunk served as the couple’s month-of planner and tied up all the loose ends for their special day. She helped pull off the romantic garden wedding the bride desired.

The bride woke up on her wedding day feeling surreal – she couldn’t believe the day had finally arrived. The groom woke to feel good nerves – nervous about being a husband and a dad all at once, something deeply important to him. Throughout their day, the couple felt present in the moment amongst family and cherished friends. They were more than ready to become Mr. and Mrs. on a picturesque February morning.

To ease the nervous jitters, the couple opted for a first look that turned out to be one of their favorite moments. When Danny set his eyes on Liz, he felt wrapped up in his safe place. He recalls never seeing anyone so beautiful as his bride and feeling so lucky she was marrying him.

Walking down the aisle was almost dreamlike for Liz. As she walked down the aisle with her father, she knew each step was bringing her closer to her future. The moments were lovely and overwhelming all at once. She loved looking around her to see the smiling faces of loved ones, which was extremely meaningful to her as each seat was filled with someone who traveled to celebrate Liz and Danny.

Even with the large guest list, the day had an intimate feel about it. The bride loved the look of the Cotton Mill, which gave off a European Ruins vibe. After exchanging their vows, Danny also recited his vows to his future daughter. He wanted Olive to know he would always be there for her. To solidify the vow to her, Danny gave her a ring she can wear on a necklace.

After drying happy tears and posing for portraits, the newlyweds made their memorable grand entrance at their reception. Danny, who played college football at Baylor University, opted for a sports introduction that was fitting for the wedding party. The couple recalls their family and friends cheering like they were at the Super Bowl when the pair entered the spectacular room at the Cotton Mill.

The space was transformed into Liz’s vision of garden romance. The wood floors coupled with wood tables evoked an earthy feel. Lush green garland dripped off the tables with pops of neutral-hued rose arrangements sprinkled throughout. Twinkle lights were strung from the ceiling in the room while garland hanging over the head table was adorned with low-hanging sparkling copper ornaments. Flickering candlelight and the lights hanging overhead cast a romantic glow across the room. Each place setting dazzled with varying shades of silverware and a prayer card written in exquisite calligraphy.

After the couple was introduced, guests settled in to enjoy a delicious dinner catered by Urban Taco. Olive had her very own themed table featuring delectable dishes she prefers – from Smucker’s Uncrustables to sprinkled donuts. Glittering bronze piñatas hung in a special corner full of treats for all the children to enjoy. The Cake Stand created several confections for the occasion: several two-tiered cakes dripping in caramel as well as a Baylor Bears-themed groom’s cake adorned with Danny’s jersey number from his football days.

Guests enjoyed a night of dancing to the DJ and were able to get silly in the photo booth. The groom enjoyed dancing with family and friends, but especially with his bride and new daughter. Before the evening came to a close, Liz and Danny enjoyed a private final dance with just the two of them as guests prepared for the exit. They were able to slow down for a bit and truly soak in the moment.

To see the couple out, family and friends tossed rose petals at the newlyweds as they were whisked away in a Town Car to the Jewel Hotel. The following day, they traveled to Maui, Hawaii, and stayed in the luxurious Four Seasons Resort. Liz and Danny spent a relaxing week soaking in the sun and quality time with one another.

The couple recently moved into a new house in the DFW area, which has been a transition into their new life together. Now that the excitement of the wedding planning is over, Liz and Danny agree they are experiencing their favorite part of their story so far – living each day together as a family.

FEATURED VENDORS

Accommodations | Sheraton McKinney Hotel

Photography | Charla Storey Photography

Decor/Rentals | The Olive Bench

other local vendors: Watters Wtoo • Accessory Jane • Nordstrom Bridal • The Cake Stand • Urban Taco • House of Hough • M&M Events • LeForce Entertainment • SK Designs • Beauty and the Blush Artistry • The Cotton Mill • Marc Samuels Jewelers • Menguin • Marc Roberts Videography • Lindsey Brunk Event Planning & Designs