FROM THE BRIDE //  Our wedding day can be described in only one word: magical. I remember feeling stressed the entire week over the possibility of rain, but when I woke up that morning I felt surprisingly calm.  The day went by seamlessly with the sun shining! Getting ready with the girls before the wedding was so much fun. We listened to music and danced up a storm (especially my mother). I surprisingly was hungry and able to eat a lot! Once Sun & Sparrow arrived however, things started to feel very real. I am normally the one in control at all times (disclaimer: I was a bridezilla) and the day of I let the reigns go because Ellie was able to execute my itinerary flawlessly. She got everyone moving and shaking! Before the ceremony, Chris and I had our first look which was very beautiful and private. We continued taking pictures with our family and friends at the beautiful Calamigos Ranch Oak Room and I was absolutely blown away by the enchanting arch that Petals & Linens executed. I was speechless at our floral arrangements! We hired a jazz band for the ceremony and cocktail hour which all of our guests really enjoyed under the gorgeous chandeliers of the outdoors area. After walking down the aisle, the party flew by. Dancing was one of my favorite parts, especially when my new husband decided to do the running man on the floor! It was a beautiful party to celebrate the beginning of a lifelong relationship and I couldn’t be more thankful for our supportive families and of course our amazing vendors!

One special moment that sticks out the most to me is the first look with my Dad. It was the only time I felt really emotional. I saw his eyes get watery and it just broke me. Also, his father of the bride speech was very genuine and from the heart. It was very special for my family.

If I could give one piece of advice to couples currently in the planning stages is to have a first look. The day goes by so fast and it was nice to have the pictures all taken care of prior to the ceremony. Plus your hair and makeup is perfect still. Also, do not download three different weather apps and stare at them all day long leading up to the wedding. It is what it is!

What inspired you while planning your wedding & decor? Was there any special element that made your decor come together for you, personally?

I have always loved the movie The Secret Garden since I was a little girl. I was very inspired by that movie and wanted to recreate it with a bright colored floral arch that looked like it grew from the ground and the waterfall backdrop.

Photographer: Sun & Sparrow Photography 

Venue: Calamigos Ranch – The Oaks  

Coordinator & Florals : Petals & Linens 

Videographers: Hadley Studios

Photo Booth : SillyBooth

Rings Maker : Towne Jewelers 

DJ : DJ Chris Paul 

Jazz Band : Jon Stanger Band

Wedding Gown Maker : Stella York

Wedding Gown Boutique : Beautiful Day

Hair : Hair by Karianna  & Makeup : Felicia La Tour //  booked with Fee-Love

Bride’s Shoes: Michael Kors

Bridesmaids Dresses: Vera Wang at David’s Bridal

Groom Suit : Calvin Klein 

Grooms Shoes : Men’s Warehouse