Prepare to Swoon Over This Lush Arboretum Wedding Featuring a Flower-Arched Aisle

Chanel Flowers & Daniel McDonald
March 27, 2021

When Chanel Flowers’ beau of nine years, Daniel McDonald, popped the question on the shores of Saint Augustine, Florida, the Googling began in earnest. Luckily, it didn’t take long for her to click on—and click with—Dallas planner Rebecca Marín Shepherd. The feeling was mutual. “I felt like the stars aligned when we met. Chanel trusted me, and she knew the importance of the day was marrying the love of her life,” says Rebecca. Together, planner and client created an intimate affair featuring floral arches, bouquets, and arrangements that rivaled the gardens at the Dallas Arboretum. Says Chanel: “My number one thing was florals—after all, my last name is Flowers! I didn’t even care if we had food.”

Chanel & Daniel McDonald's Wedding Floral Altar

Great Expectations

The verdant green grass of the Arboretum sets the stage for three dramatic arches covered in white roses. “When my dad and I turned the corner, I thought I was going to fall to my knees,” says Chanel. “It’s very rare that something meets my expectations and even rarer that something exceeds them.”

Chanel & Daniel McDonald's Wedding Jimmy Choo Sandals

Fine Lines

Ivory lace Jimmy Choo “Sacora 45” sandals paired beautifully with Chanel’s custom veil and dress by family friend Nha Khanh. “Ever since I was a kid, I knew if I ever got married, she would make my gown,” says Chanel. “She’s so insanely talented.”

Guests: 150

Honeymoon: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

First Dance: “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers

Cake Flavor: Vanilla cake with blackberries and cream cheese