Q: Tell us about your wedding! What was the inspiration behind your day? Did you have a specific theme, style or color palette? Did you incorporate any cultural or religious traditions in any part of your day?
A: My husband and I deeply value our relationships with our friends and family . Thus, we wanted a wedding celebration that not only reflected Micah and me as a couple, but also one that allowed our guests to feel welcomed and at ease, as if they were coming to a family reunion. We chose a venue located on a farm that would create a dynamic atmosphere: spacious and comfortable for those wishing to sit and visit with one another, or engaging and adventurous for those wanting to dance, play lawn games, take photos, or explore the 180 acres of the farm. We did have traditions, like a first dance, but we also put a twist on some, like having an open mic during toasts so that anyone was able to share a few words. Overall, the theme was that of a welcoming gathering, celebrating a man and woman marrying as well as people coming together especially after the turbulent year that was 2020.
Q: Let's talk wedding decor. How did you decorate your space for the ceremony and the reception? Was any part of the decor DIY?
A: We went with a very simple decor as we did not want to get caught up in the glamour of what a wedding could be... we did not want to lose sight of why we were having this celebration in the first place. Because we had our wedding ceremony and reception (people sat at their assigned tables for both the ceremony and reception so as to avoid moving to various locations considering the health restrictions) in a newly renovated barn, the space itself needed no added adornment with a high vaulted ceiling, a handmade rustic chandelier, and floor to ceiling windows. For the centerpieces, we had fresh and wonderfully aromatic eucalyptus running down each of the tables and small votive candles. My dad made our card box out of an old crate, my mom used a discarded wooden pallet to showcase table arrangements, and I designed our wedding programs and made table numbers using blocks of wood and a cricut.
Q: What were the florals like in your wedding? Did you use flowers in any of your design elements like the bridal bouquets, centerpieces or ceremony backdrop? Did they play an important part in the overall style of your wedding?
A: Our venue gave us the option of sourcing our flowers for us. As they are a working farm, they grow their own wild flowers. Thus, the bride’s and bridesmaids’ bouquets were all arranged onsite at the farm. The eucalyptus that was used for the centerpieces was sourced from an outside florist, but it provided a fresh scent throughout the whole barn.
Q: Did you personalize the day in any way (food trucks, guest entertainment etc.)? What were some of your favorite parts of your wedding?
A: Last minute we decided to have a photo booth! We went with an incredible vendor called The Wanderbus. They take old vehicles and transform them into glamorous photo booths. We chose a gorgeous cream colored VW bus. We were able to choose how the bus was to be adorned; we chose greenery as this coincided with our floral arrangements. This was such a unique way for our guests to capture some memories! Another highlight was a choreographed Father Daughter dance that was rather hilarious but thoroughly entertaining.
Q: Let's talk fashion. How did you both choose your wedding day look? Describe the looks in detail.
A: I lived in Scotland for a year, so I thought it would be so special to buy a dress there. I was going for a very flowy, loose fitting dress with minimal “bling” and “sparkle.” I found the perfect sleeveless white dress with unique beading on the torso and bust while the bottom half of the dress was chiffon material, flowing perfectly to my feet. The back of the dress was rather open also with a intricate beaded design. I was quite excited to be able bring a dress back to America that I knew most brides in the States have never seen! I chose to wear strapped flat white sandals as that is what I’m most comfortable in. Micah went with a relaxed look, as well. He chose dark gray dress pants with forest green suspenders, a white button down, a gray bow tie with tiny white polka dots, and dark brown dress shoes. His green suspenders went perfectly with our greenery decor... I even had my toenails painted green to tie it all together!
Q: How did you meet? Tell us about the proposal.
A: We met in 2015 at a get together a mutual friend was having (this mutual friend was actually our officiant!). We hit it off as we both shared a love for Lord of the Rings and Parks and Rec. We would see each other every now and then at church or Bible study, but it wasn’t until 2018 we started talking more intentionally. However, it was rather bad timing as I was getting ready to move across the ocean to Scotland. Nevertheless, we began dating in July of 2018. Our first date was at a local frisbee golf park where we walked around and ate ice cream. We continued dating long distance. When I came home for a short visit in March of 2019, Micah took me back to that frisbee golf park and he led me through the snow laden grounds where he eventually proposed. It was altogether lovely.
Q: What was the most anticipated or special moment of your wedding day?
A: We were both looking forward to just being able to see our people and celebrate with them. But I think two of the most special moments revolved around music. First, we had dear friends lead us in a time of worship during our ceremony. It was incredible to be able to sing songs of praise surrounded by so many loved ones. Second, a friend of mine from high school sang our first dance song (Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis). It was amazing to have friends use their talents to bless us in these ways.
Q: Do you have any wedding planning or marriage advice that you'd like to share with other couples planning their day?
A: One regret that I have is not “sharing the load.” I thought I could do all the planning and prepping on my own especially since we were going for a more simple celebration. Nonetheless, it became rather overwhelming. I wish I delegated more things to friends or even our bridal party so I didn’t have to worry about the timing of things or making sure everyone was where they needed to be on the day of the wedding. It wouldn’t hurt to have a trusted friend act as a wedding coordinator of sorts so you don’t have to hire someone to ensure things are unfolding smoothly... this way you can fully enjoy and be present in the special day! And also, do not feel pressured to invite people out of obligation — make sure the people you want there are there as they are more important. Also also! Turn off your phone the day of! No one needs to be bothering the bride (or groom) on their wedding day!