Temptation on Ocean Drive - Jennifer Probst Page 0,69
there was a gasp from the crowd. Every other layer boasted a different bold color hidden inside—canary yellow, cotton-candy pink, Tiffany blue, seafoam green, red velvet. It was sheer creative cake artistry, and Maria had informed them both it had almost killed her.
As flashbulbs went off and the dessert table with cake pops, macaroons, truffles, and specialized Dr. Seuss treats was revealed, Bella knew they’d outdone themselves. The pigeons called out, and Adele’s delighted laugh echoed through the air. Joy unfurled inside her, along with pride from being able to be part of a day filled with love. It was these moments that reminded her how much she truly did love her job.
Bella was just heading for a quick bathroom break when she was stopped.
“Are you the wedding planner?”
Bella turned. A petite woman stood before her, dressed in a stunning blush-pink dress with intricate beading. With her cap of dark hair, she looked like a pixie creature from a mythical land. “Yes. Can I help you with something?”
“I’m Latoya with Bride Style magazine. I’m doing a feature on Adele’s wedding, and I wanted to ask you a few questions.”
“Of course. Congratulations on getting on the list. Adele was selective of who she invited to the wedding.”
Latoya laughed. “Adele and I go way back, so she knows I’m not out to make front-page news by trashing her. But I am fair, so to forewarn you, if I don’t like something, I’m going to put it out to my readers.”
Bella’s smile hid her nerves. They’d been featured on the Knot and in a few other high-style articles over the years, but Bride Style was the fashion magazine for elite weddings and society brides. Styles, trends, and new hot contacts were made there.
“I understand completely. You should meet my partner, Gabe. We worked together on this for Sunshine Bridal.”
“Already did. Cornered him right before you. I wanted to interview you both separately.”
Uneasiness struck. Was this a way to try and split them up, causing a bit of controversy? The press liked an angle that was click-worthy. She wasn’t going to play those games, but Latoya seemed genuinely friendly, and she was trusted by Adele. “I’m all yours. What would you like to know?”
“I’m going to record this because I have no pen and pad that will fit in my purse.” She picked up her small clutch, removed her phone, and hit the button. “Sunshine Bridal is run by you and your sisters, correct? Can you tell me a bit about how the company was started, then go into your individual styles?”
Bella took her time, making sure to give details of her sisters’ different personalities and how their whole vision took their parents’ company to the next level. They chatted in-depth about how Adele had found them, and some of the most memorable weddings they’d planned in the past. Finally, they got to Gabe.
“Hiring a male wedding coordinator is still unusual. Have you ever had any issues regarding your female clients not being able to relate?”
“No, I think Gabe has brought a fresh perspective we all need. After all, most brides are desperate to involve a man in their wedding planning, but most run in the opposite direction. Gabe is able to act as a stand-in for the groom, when desired, and is an excellent guide through the overwhelming process.”
“Who did most of the work bringing Adele’s Dr. Seuss theme to life?”
“It was equal,” she said. “Each of our full-time planners brings a distinct personality and touch to a wedding, but Gabe and I were able to meld our ideas to execute the perfect vision. It’s another thing we’re proud of at Sunshine. We all help each other out, so you get the power of a full team.”
“You haven’t had any runaway brides once they worked with Gabe, have you?” Latoya asked, a wicked twinkle in her eye. “I could see how it could happen. He’s so charming.”
Coldness trickled down her spine. Her voice reflected the chill when she spoke. “No, that has never happened and never will. Gabe is a complete professional, just like all of us employed at Sunshine. He treats clients with care and compassion, as we all should. I also think it’s a discriminatory question. Would you ask a woman that?”
The reporter didn’t flinch, just treated her to a level gaze. “Probably not, but no question is off the table.”
She nodded and remained calm. She’d said her truth but didn’t want to piss off Latoya, either. “Understood. My answer stands.”