CREME DE LA CREME

𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐲-𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐫: the rehearsal dinner

The grand ballroom of The Bellmore, an exclusive five-star hotel in Los Angeles, was transformed into a breathtaking vision for Anastasia and Cameron's rehearsal dinner. The room was illuminated with a golden glow from crystal chandeliers, their light reflecting off the champagne-colored tablecloths and the glittering glassware. Fresh white roses and hydrangeas adorned every surface, with accents of eucalyptus leaves and gold trim giving the space a sophisticated, timeless feel.

Anastasia stepped into the ballroom on Cameron's arm, a picture of poise and elegance in a white silk midi dress with a high neckline and delicate pearl detailing. Cameron looked every bit her match in a tailored navy-blue suit with a crisp white shirt and a champagne-colored tie.

"Wow," Cameron said under his breath, glancing at Anastasia. "If you look this good tonight, I don't think I'll survive tomorrow."

She gave him a playful nudge. "You're not supposed to see me tomorrow, remember? Tradition and all that."

"Then I'll enjoy the view tonight," he said with a grin.

Their families and friends stood, applauding as the couple entered.

"Here they are!" Brielle called out, raising her glass.

Cocktail Hour

Guests mingled during the cocktail hour, enjoying passed hors d'oeuvres like mini crab cakes, truffle arancini, and prosciutto-wrapped melon. The signature drinks for the evening were inspired by the couple: "The Anastasia," a sparkling elderflower cocktail, and "The Cameron," an old-fashioned with a twist of orange.

"Everything is so beautiful," Elizabeth said, standing with Brielle, Vanessa, Olivia, and Mercedes near the bar. "This is exactly what I expected from Anastasia."

"Understated yet absolutely stunning," Mercedes agreed, eyeing the décor.

Brielle smirked. "Just like her."

Nearby, Cameron's groomsmen were already getting competitive over who could guess the dinner courses.

"My bet's on filet mignon and sea bass," Jasper said.

"With a side of truffle mashed potatoes," Jesse added

Once everyone was seated, the waitstaff began serving the first course: a delicate lobster bisque accompanied by freshly baked bread. Each guest's place setting featured a handwritten note from Anastasia and Cameron, thanking them for their love and support.

The main course options were as predicted—filet mignon or herb-crusted sea bass—with a selection of sides including roasted asparagus and creamy truffle mashed potatoes.

At the head table, Anastasia and Cameron sat surrounded by their bridal party and immediate family.

"You're doing great," Cameron whispered to Anastasia as she glanced nervously at the program for the speeches.

"Thanks to you," she said softly, reaching for his hand under the table.

Speeches

The speeches began after dessert was served, a rich chocolate lava cake with a side of vanilla bean gelato.

Anastasia's father, Thomas, rose first. "As a father, you always wonder who your daughter will choose to spend her life with. Cameron, I can say without hesitation that she chose well."

Laughter and applause rippled through the room as he went on to share a few heartfelt and humorous anecdotes about Anastasia's childhood.

Next was Cameron's grandmother mother, who spoke about Cameron's unwavering dedication and how she knew he had found his match in Anastasia.

"I've never seen him this happy, this sure of his path," she said, her voice breaking slightly. "Anastasia, thank you for being the person who lights up his world."

Finally, Mercedes and Jasper, teamed up for a lighthearted yet touching toast.

"Let's be honest, we all thought Cameron was too serious to settle down," Jasper said, earning laughs. "But then Anastasia came along and proved us all wrong. Here's to a lifetime of happiness, love, and more surprises."

Mercedes chimed in, "And to Anastasia, for being the kind of woman who can handle Cameron's endless spreadsheets and still look flawless doing it."

After the speeches, the lights dimmed, and a soft melody began to play. Cameron extended his hand to Anastasia.

"May I have this dance?"

"Of course," she said, her eyes sparkling.

They shared a slow dance in the center of the room as their friends and family looked on. Soon, other couples joined them on the dance floor, and the evening transitioned into a warm, joyful celebration.

As the night wound down, Anastasia and Cameron slipped away to the balcony for a quiet moment. The city lights stretched out before them, and the hum of music and laughter drifted through the open doors.

"Are you ready for tomorrow?" Cameron asked, wrapping his arms around her.

"I've never been more ready," Anastasia said, leaning into him.

He kissed her temple. "Good. Because I'm ready to start forever with you."

They stayed like that for a while, savoring the calm before their big day.