Emily and John

October 23, 2010
All Saints Lutheran Church, Orlando
The Courtyard at Lake Lucerne, Orlando
Photographs by Richmond Gibbs Photography

Emily Ludder and John Kruszewski met during a football game in high school when one of her best friends, Paige Golin, introduced them and declared the two a perfect match. Rather than romance, a friendship developed that continued as the two attended Florida State University. It was in their junior year of college that John and Emily realized they were meant for one another, just as Paige predicted.  On Dec. 18, 2009, John, now a commercial leasing associate, took Emily, a publicist, to the Walt Disney World Polynesian Resort to watch the holiday fireworks. While the couple, now both 26, sat on the beach during the display, John leaned over and asked Emily if she would take his last name. Just shy of a year later, the couple tied the knot in a ceremony presided over by Emily’s father, a Lutheran pastor, who shared a story during the homily that his father (also a Lutheran pastor) had told him and Emily’s mother at their wedding. Paige was right by Emily’s side as maid of honor, along with with matron of honor Jessica Masi, another lifelong friend. “I was overcome with emotions, surrounded by dear friends and family,” says Emily. “The church was beautiful, with candles, white lights, rose petals and warm smiles. It was a moment that still makes my heart flutter.”

DETAILS

Theme: Southern Elegance
Wedding Planner: Lisa Bowen of An Affair to Remember, Orlando
Caterer: Arthur’s Creative Events & Catering, Orlando
Most Memorable Moment: For Emily, it was walking into the reception as Mrs. Kruszewski, surrounded by friends and family.
Bridesmaids: 6
Groomsmen: 7
Guests: 120
Bridal Gown: Allure Bridals Couture Collection from Leggenda Bridal, Coral Gables
Photographer: Richmond Gibbs of Richmond Gibbs Photography, Winter Park
Videographer: Dan Sweeney of MegapixelPro Professional Video Productions, Orlando
Cakes: Both wedding and groom’s cakes by Party Flavors Custom Cakes, Ocoee
Florist: Atmospheres Floral and Décor, Orlando
Stationer: Invitations By Design, Winter Garden
Music: White Rose Entertainment, Orlando
Transportation: 1957 Rolls Royce from VIP Transportation, Orlando
Officiant: The Rev. Carsten Ludder, father of the bride
Honeymoon: Little Palm Island Resort & Spa and Cheeca Lodge & Spa, both in the Florida Keys