Candice Brain and Stephen Reaves had no idea they both had such a strong connection to the University of Southern California (USC) when they met in Tampa Bay, Florida. It was the 2011 Super Bowl weekend: Candice was working as a news reporter covering the game and Stephen had traveled from California to partake in the festivities. The couple found connections instantly; Candice had just spent four years studying at USC and Stephen worked there for two years in athletics. On their eventual wedding day at Calamigos, Candice would add her own surprise infusion of USC school spirit in the form of a live marching band performance.
For their nuptials in the Birchwood Room at Calamigos, the couple centered their vision around love, laughter and warmth. With many guests traveling from out of town for the event, Candice and Stephen were focused on ensuring a memorable night for the entire group. A forest ambiance and soft lighting made the Birchwood room a perfect fit for the couple who share an affinity for gardens. Hues of coral, Candice's favorite color, were woven into floral design and décor with elegance, a fitting contrast to white roses and monochromatic bouquets for the bridal party. A live harp performance brought an aura of enchantment to the ceremony, an apt ode to the couple's love of string instruments that framed a beautiful union.
The reception was brimming with personalized details and classic touches. Paperboy Roasting Co. fueled a specialty coffee cart that offered guests energy boosts for a packed night of dancing. For their guest book, Candice and Stephen used a scrapbook and Polaroid camera to create a stylized album featuring their loved ones. But the true showstopping moment was after toasts, when the USC Marching Band made a surprise entrance unbeknownst to the entire party with the exception of bride Candice. Under sparkling lights the band entertained for an unforgettable show that paid tribute to Candice and Stephen's experiences at USC. Candice offered her parting words of wisdom as she reflected on the event, "Do what brings you joy to celebrate and don't be afraid. Instead, embrace the beauty and challenge in everything."
