Bridal Bliss: Julia Pace Mitchell's Wedding Photos

ESSENCE.COM Sep, 29, 2011

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Meet The Newlyweds

“The Young & The Restless” star Julia Pace Mitchell married business executive Stephen L. Hightower II, her soul mate, on Sunday September 4, 2011. Ohio’s Dayton Event Connection designed their big day.

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The Dress

Beautiful bride Julia wore a classic vintage gown for the ceremony.

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It's Time to Go

Julia’s sister Shawn Pace Mitchell helps her put the finishing touches on her wedding day look.

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It's a Group Thing

Julia and Stephen pose with their bridal party. What a lovely, happy bunch!

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Let's Hear It For the Ladies

Julia’s surrounded by her beautiful bridesmaids, who are a vision of beauty in their gorgeous purple gowns, and pretty pink florals. We love the alternating dress styles! Julia’s sister Shawn Pace Mitchell was her maid of honor.

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All Smiles

Happy husband-to-be Stephen is excited to see his lady love come down the aisle. The groom’s brother Quincy Hightower served as the best man.

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A High Note

Julia’s studded heels are stunning!

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Set the Stage

Julia and Stephen invited 150 of their closest friends and family to their dream wedding ceremony which was held at the lovely Shaker Run Golf Club in Lebanon, Ohio. The pair had originally planned a lakeside ceremony, but it rained and they had to bring their ceremony inside.

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The Little Lady

The couple’s adorable flower girl prepares the aisle for the lovely bride to be.

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I Only Have Eyes for You

We just love the way Julia and Stephen look at each other. Clearly there’s a wealth of love and trust between them and we’re wishing them nothing but the best.

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Written From the Heart

Julia and Stephen wrote and exchanged their own vows. All wedding florals were designed by Bruce Levan of Flowerscapes.

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With This Ring

The wedding was officiated by Dr. Gregory Ballard, Sr.

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A Family Affair

The mothers of the bride and groom’s respective families participate in the emotional unity sand ceremony that represents the blending of two families for life.

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Out With the Old, In with the New

Julia and Stephen jump the broom to symbolize the sweeping away of their old lives and single people and sweeping in their new life together as one.

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Change of A Dress

For the reception, Julia slipped out of her vintage gown, and into a custom made strapless sweetheart gown designed by Dalia MacPhee.

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Work It Ladies

Julia’s mother, actress Judy Pace Flood, and her aunt, actress Nichelle Nichols (“Star Trek”), get their groove on while the deejay spins classic wedding tunes.

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Pretty in Purple

Julia beams as she poses for pictures during the reception fun. “Everything went smoothly on the day and was absolutely incredible. I’m so happy, I’m still pinching myself,” says Julia.