Happily Ever After: Christina Anstead’s Dreamy Backyard Wedding
On December 22, 2018, Christina and Ant Anstead pulled off a surprise wedding in their backyard for 70 of their closest friends and family. Although it’s almost been a year since their big day, this is the first time we’ve been able to see a complete gallery of their wedding, starting with the “getting ready” shots and ending with the always iconic sparkler send-off. A huge thank you to the Anstead’s and their photographer for sharing these gorgeous photos with us!
Christina and Ant
…pulled off a surprise wedding on December 22, 2018. The ceremony and reception were held in the backyard of their recently-purchased home in Newport Beach, California.
The Dress
Christina's mermaid-style gown was designed by Ines Di Santo.
Dress Closeup
The Details
The Shoes
Christina paired her gown with Sergio Rossi crystal puzzle heels.
The Rings
Randall Scott Fine Jewelry designed the rings, including Christina’s 8.5 carat, emerald-cut eternity band.
The Bouquet
Christina's bouquet featured ivory and blush peonies.
Getting Ready
Christina’s makeup artist is also her close friend Shannon Houston.
Zipping Up
Ant's daughter Amelie helps Christina into her gown.
Finishing Touches
The Beautiful Bride
The Beautiful Bride
Bouquet Closeup
Getting Ready: Groom Edition
The Shoes
The Boutineers
Father and Son
Ant and his son Archie.
The Handsome Groom
Getting Ready: Brayden Edition
Christina's son Brayden needed to look his best as well!
Getting Ready: Brayden Edition
Suit and Tie
The Shoes
The First Look
The First Look
The First Look
The First Look
Christina and Ant
Christina and Taylor
Christina's daughter Taylor served as flower girl.
Ant, Amelie and Archie
One Big Blended Family
Christina and Ant with Taylor, Brayden, Amelie and Archie.
Cash the Frenchie
Christina's French bull dog Cash was part of the big day, too!
Cash the Frenchie
Cash sported a custom tuxedo!
Christina and Ant
Sharing a quiet moment before guests started arriving.
The Ceremony
The ceremony setup included a gorgeous arbor, ivory cross back chairs and plenty of flowers for a romantic vibe.
Ceremony Decor
Floral Arbor
No outdoor wedding is complete without a gorgeous, floral-draped arbor.
Special Guests
Guests like Izzy Battres were not expecting a wedding when they arrived at Christina and Ant's!
The Ceremony
Amelie escorted Brayden and Cash the Frenchie down the aisle.
Cash the Frenchie
The Ring Bearer and The Flower Girl
Archie and Taylor
Here Comes the Bride
All Eyes on the Bride
The Groom Awaits the Bride
The Vows
I Now Pronounce You...
Husband and Wife
Christina and Ant
Shannon and Christina
Just Married
A vintage Rolls-Royce getaway car was necessary for a car enthusiast like Ant!
Pool Petals
Floating candles plus flower petals quickly transform a pool into a romantic oasis.
Cocktail Hour
Cocktail Hour Decor
Cocktail Hour Music
Passed Hors D'oeuvres
MORE IDEAS: 36 Party Foods You Can Serve on a Stick
Passed Hors D'oeuvres
The Bar
Find Your Seat
The Reception Tent
The Reception Tent
The Centerpieces
The Menu
Tablescape Details
Tablescape Details
The Head Table
The Cake
For dessert, Christina and Ant served a three-tiered "naked" wedding cake with strawberries and cream.
Cut the Cake
Dessert Display
According to Christina, Ant takes his desserts very seriously and was in charge of picking them out for the reception.
Dessert Display
Dessert Closeup
Dessert Closeup
Okay, is anyone else hungry after all these dessert pictures?
The Band
First Dance
Christina with Cassie and Shannon
Christina and Ant
Sleepy Cash
The Reception at Night
Intentional Favors
Along with a handwritten gift tag that says "Thank you from the 6 of us," the pair gave guests small bags of Energy Muse healing crystals to take home.
