Local Love – Ponleu & Daniel at Cheney Mansion
Ponleu and Daniel met through mutual friends as teenagers. They dealt with their fair share of ups and downs, but learned to work together and trust each other to work through challenges. They knew when they planned their wedding that it was important to each of them to have a wedding day that reflected both their American and Cambodian heritages and traditions. Ponleu and Daniel planned a chic, boho garden wedding that was the perfect reflection of their personalities and cultures.
Ponleu and Daniel shared a first look before their ceremony to help them prepare for the emotions of the significant day. “He cried and at first and I did a little giggle,” Ponleu shared. “It was the most amazing and dramatic feeling we’ve ever had.” The couple tied the knot in a gorgeous outdoor ceremony at The Cheney Mansion. The venue was the perfect blend of romantic and casual that they wanted. Ponleu carried a large, airy bouquet full of greenery to complement the natural, garden feel of the ceremony. A family friend and pastor performed the ceremony and the pair planted a unity tree together, using soil from their parents’ homes to symbolize their strength and patience.
After the meaningful ceremony, Ponleu and Daniel joined guests at New Furama for a family-friendly reception at the venue where Ponleu’s mother was married. The couple really wanted everyone to feel comfortable and enjoy the delicious ten-course meal they served. They both changed into traditional Cambodian wedding attire for the reception as a fun surprise for guests and an important nod to their heritage. One of their favorite moments of the evening was enjoying their first dance together and then being joined by their two adorable daughters to all dance together. “It was a very magical and emotional moment. Everything was perfect and we had a room full of loved ones,” Ponleu said. The couple both love sweets, so they treated guests to cupcakes, donuts and sweet treats from their favorite bakery. Ponleu and Daniel had to wait a while to have their dream wedding, as they didn’t want to have to choose between having a family and the perfect wedding day. Ponleu decided the wait was definitely worth it because, “we wanted our daughters to know that they will always have a strong foundation with two loving parents. It was just amazing for them to share in such a special way.”
Number of Wedding Guests: 250
Vendor List:
Ceremony Venue: The Cheney Mansion
Reception Venue: New Furama
Photography: Elena Cuellar Photography
Videography: Rhysladhani Media
Officiant: Mike Stienke
Event Planner: Lil Epic Design
Rings: Vera Wang for Zales
Bride’s Gown: Lillian West via Weddings 826
Makeup: Makeup by Hailey
Bride’s Other Jewelry: Family Heirloom
Formalwear: ASOS
Groom’s Accessories: Louis Vuitton; custom
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: ASOS
Stationery: Honee Bee Calligraphy; Vistaprint
Floral: Vy’s Floral Design
Rentals: Elements Preserved
Catering: New Furama
Entertainment: Magsino Mobile Entertainment
Cake & Sweets: Molly’s Cupcakes; Uptown Donuts
Draping: CV Decorations
