Janet Butler 
Who’s pictured walking shirtless on this October wedding morning? It might be the best man, going beyond the call of wedding-attendant duty to test the temperature for the happy outdoor nuptials about to take place, as presented by Stephen DeVries. Early in the day, it’s time for the bride’s updo to take shape: her friend holds a mirror in front of her face so she can watch the work in progress. Mom gets a little pampering, too, as do the maids, but the bride is the star of this show in a gown of sumptuous smocked satin and rhinestones, with intricate beading on the strapless bodice. Colors in this wedding are those of a bright autumn day in the South: red, orange, yellow, pale green, and purple brighten graceful floral displays on wrought-iron holders.
The groom, meanwhile, is a sight in sable-brown suiting with snow-white vest and tie; the men’s suits sport black satin lapels as unique accents. The groomsmen will do what they have to do to get their charge to the ceremony on time — even carry him! After a sweet “reveal,” the party makes their way to the garden wedding site, the maids in gowns in a flowing color that transforms from café-au-lait in the shade to a breath of pale yellow in the sun. Beneath a lavish flowered arbor, the bride and groom say their vows, then proceed to cake — including cheesecake! — and champagne. After dancing well into the evening, the couple is sent off under the flare of sparklers, blowing kisses and climbing into a vintage car for their ride into their new life together.
