Some weddings break the mold in all the best ways. For Desiree and Elby, planning a modern wedding meant tossing tradition aside and creating something that felt true to them—a vibrant celebration filled with music, culture, intention, and personality. Held at The Great Southern Box Company in Orlando, their day was as effortlessly stylish as it was unapologetically fun.
“We started by sketching out what a typical wedding usually looks like, and then we flipped the script,” Desiree shared. “We made a list of all the traditional elements that didn’t feel like us and reimagined them into something more celebratory and personal.”
From a standing-room ceremony with champagne in hand to hours of nonstop dancing, this modern wedding was built around movement, music, and making every moment feel alive.
What We Love About This Modern Wedding:
- A reimagined ceremony setup with standing guests and post-vow toasts
- A stunning form-fitting dress that balanced simplicity and glam
- DIY decor using 3D-printed vases and personalized details by the couple’s own business
- A multicultural soundtrack blending Bachata, R&B, Jazz, and more
Featured Vendor:
Patricia Silverio
Creating a Cohesive Look Without a Set Color Palette
Desiree described their wedding style as “effortless, clean, and refreshing.” A vibe that came together naturally once she found their venue. “Those gorgeous velvety green curtains sealed the deal. I knew I wanted to play off the greenery,” she said. Lilies, her favorite flower, and fresh fruit on the tables added a pop of color without feeling overdone.
Rather than choosing a specific color palette, she followed her gut and her personal sense of style: relaxed, minimal, and elegant.
Shop Desiree’s Bridal Style:
Why the Right Team Can Elevate a Nontraditional Wedding
When it came to vendors, Desiree focused on finding people who understood their nontraditional vision. Junebug vendor Patricia Silverio Co. was at the top of her list, and delivered exactly what they needed.
“She shot both our engagement and wedding photos, and nothing felt more seamless than working with someone who truly got our direction,” Desiree said.
From there, everything clicked into place: Patricia connected her to Natalie Ruiz, who did her hair and makeup. The venue—still new to hosting weddings—offered flexibility, warmth, and a built-in food hall that made catering a breeze.
Rethinking the Ceremony to Reflect Their Vibe
Forget rows of chairs and solemn silence, Desiree and Elby’s ceremony had guests standing with champagne in hand. “It was short, intentional, and flowed perfectly into the party,” Desiree shared.
Her mother-in-law offered a heartfelt blessing, and the couple opted out of a first look. “Seeing him up there for the first time was everything. It felt like we were the only two people in the room.”
How They Kept It Beautiful and Budget-Conscious
Desiree and Elby were determined to keep their modern wedding under $20K, and they came impressively close, landing at $22K. “We created a spreadsheet of all our non-negotiables and kept ranking things by importance. If it didn’t matter in the long run, we cut it.”
Photography, attire, music, and decor topped the list. To save in other areas, they kept things in-house: their planner doubled as florist, and their own 3D-printing business produced everything from vases to glass charms.
“My best advice for anyone planning on a budget? Think about your wedding as if it already happened—what would you regret not having? Then build from there.”
Turning the Reception Into a Nonstop Party
With nearly four hours dedicated to the dance floor, their modern wedding lived up to its goal of being one giant celebration. Their DJ kept energy high all night long, and even their young son joined in with bubbles and matching tux vibes.
“We brought out the big heads, which made it feel like a true party. The music was from every era. Just like how we dance at home together.”
Making Their Celebration Meaningful Without Overspending
“Make your wedding exactly how you want it,” Desiree said. “Don’t let other people’s opinions sway you. You can absolutely have a beautiful, meaningful celebration on a budget that fits your lifestyle. Just bring in the right people and have fun with it!” From DIY charm to community support, Desiree and Elby’s modern wedding is proof that when you stay true to yourselves, the celebration becomes unforgettable.
The Wedding Team:
Photography – Patricia Silverio
Event Planning + Floral Design – Gerry Hernandez
Venue + Catering – Great Southern Box Co
Cake – Moriah Tate
Officiant – Jacarri Moore
DJ – Mike Harrison
Invitation Design – Minted
Makeup + Hair Styling – Natalie Ruiz
Wedding Dress – House of CB
Bridal Accessories + Bridesmaids’ Apparel – Nordstrom Rack
Groom’s Apparel – The Black Tux
Rentals – Event Works Orlando
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