North Texas Ballroom Wedding from The Garden Gate | Meghan + Ryan

SWEET BEGINNINGS: Like many college sweethearts who find their way to the altar, Meghan and Ryan’s story starts with their alma mater, Southern Methodist University. They met at SMU in 2008 during the first month of Meghan’s freshman year and Ryan’s sophomore year. The two were introduced through Meghan’s best friend, who had met Ryan at SMU’s orientation. A few weeks later, they ran into each other at a rooftop bar, and Ryan offered to buy Meghan a drink. They stood in the corner and talked to each other for a long time. It was their first time to have a real conversation, but it felt as if they had already been friends for quite some time. During that conversation is when Meghan realized Ryan was someone special, and Ryan says he set his eyes on Meghan from that day forward.

PERFECT PROPOSAL: Meghan was heading to dinner with one of her best friends. It was a rare weekend that Ryan wasn’t in town, so they planned a girls’ night out. Before dinner, Meghan’s friend asked if she would take a few photos of her on campus for her dental school directory. They stopped by campus, and she started taking photos in front of Dallas Hall, a beautiful, historic building at SMU. Right as they were wrapping up, Ryan appeared out of nowhere. Meghan’s friend grabbed the camera, while Ryan got down on one knee, pulled out a Tiffany blue box and proposed right in front of Dallas Hall. It was the sweetest surprise!

TRADITIONAL ROMANCE: Ryan and Meghan’s wedding was elegant, traditional and romantic. They aimed for a classic look with a personal touch. The couple had light blush and ivory flowers accented with dusty blue ribbon throughout the wedding. Floral décor from The Garden Gate served as a key element in establishing the feel for the reception. Floral arches lined the entryways to the ballroom, and floral table runners ran along tall tables and lined the band stage. Flowers also lined the crystal rain chandelier hanging above the dance floor. Large centerpieces sat on the tables, and flowers were included between each layer of the bride’s cake.

bridesmaids’ attire / BELLA BRIDESMAIDS  florist / THE GARDEN GATE  lighting / BEYOND

other local vendors: The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas • Warren Barron Bridal • Frosted Art Bakery & Studio • The Left Handed Calligrapher • Chiavari Chair Rentals of Dallas • Emerald City Band • Maitee Miles • Southern Fried Paper • Karlisch Photography • Mir Mir • Smith Limousine • Joe Simon Wedding Films • DFW Events