Upon initial observation, the wedding of Amber Lettig and Michael Dobson may have appeared to reflect the timeless look of a traditional white wedding. Creamy roses and hydrangeas were the ornaments of choice for the couple’s al fresco ceremony, and masses were lavished on the Crystal Garden at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Fabric-wrapped planters, sparkling glass hurricanes, and handsome marble urns were lush with blooms, and the garden’s classic gazebo featured three tiers of ivory blossoms. A floral pattern composed of roses in shades of crème brulée provided a decorative backdrop for the altar, while an ebony chandelier imparted a striking contrast echoed by rows of coordinating chiavari chairs.

As the event progressed, however, the classic black-and-white landscape began to take on the flavor of Spanish romance. A startling stroke of color brightened the scene when bridesmaids clad in scarlet advanced down the aisle. An absolute vision in a ruffled Oscar de la Renta ball gown, the bride wore her hair in an elegant upsweep finished with vivid red blooms. Her bouquet of crimson roses was accented with a ruby brooch that matched those on the dresses worn by the bridesmaids, and red-soled Louboutins completed the stunning ensemble. Even the dress worn by the diminutive flower girl – the couple’s tiny daughter Sofia – featured floral accents of red chiffon roses in keeping with the romantic theme.

On their way to the ballroom where the reception was held, guests were met at the top of the stairs with a literal bed of roses upon which beautifully calligraphed seating cards were arranged. The white-on-white florals reinforced the idea of a classic scene, while dark red flowers arranged at the foot of the staircase hinted at a more colorful setting to come. Little, however, could prepare attendees for the dramatic swathe of crimson that transformed the Crystal Ballroom. Gorgeous vermillion fabric draped the walls and fashioned a brilliant backdrop for a wedding cake embellished with a black lace pattern. Red banquettes curved around tables with scarlet coverings trimmed in black, while coal chiavari chairs encircled tables fitted with floor length linens. Each glittering ebony dinner plate was topped with a crimson napkin wrapped in midnight lace and accented with a single rose. Centerpieces ranged from tall, scarlet arrangements composed of roses with black crystals, to tightly gathered bouquets that stood low to the tables. A separate lounge area draped in white panels of fabric offered comfortable alternative seating.

The music the couple selected also echoed the pair’s romantic Spanish theme. Five live performances ranged from Spanish jazz before the ceremony, to a guitar solo by a member of the Gypsy Kings at the reception. A 12-piece band drew guests to a shiny black dance floor, and kept them there. “Everybody danced all night,” affirms the groom.

The wedding was a blend of timeless elegance and dazzling color, reflecting the strong personalities of the couple it celebrated. From the vibrant reds, to the amazing music, it was an affair that was as bold as it was classically beautiful.