If you couldn’t already tell from the pictures, our real couple models, Rakenzi and Courtney, were sooo in love! They had that newlywed glow after all. This beautiful couple had so much fun dressing up and kept up the positive energy on set by laughing throughout the day. We loved working with them and are excited to share this next set of photos, so enjoy seeing more beautiful Modern Meets Vintage and getting to know Rakenzi and Courtney!
On Courtney: Suit, Shirt, Tie and Shoes from Tuxedo Den // On Rakenzi: Headpiece by Mariell; Earrings by Renewable Jewels; Gown from Sparkle Bridal Couture
What made you want to model for this photo shoot?
When asked to model, we thought it looked like a fun opportunity. Rakenzi also loves any reason to dress up!
Tell us about your modeling experience.
We both were very surprised how much thought and planning goes into a photo shoot like this. We were impressed with how fast paced the was and how organized everything was. Even with so many moving parts, we had a fun time!
On Courtney: Shirt, Pants and Shoes from Tuxedo Den; Jacket and Tie from Macy’s // On Rakenzi: Haircomb by Luxurious Bridal; Earrings from Macy’s; Gown from Sparkle Bridal Couture; Shoes from DSW
How was modeling with your significant other?
It was fun to see each other in wedding attire other than the ones that we got married in and in attire that we typically would not have picked out ourselves. Doing this shoot together also added a level of comfort as we went through the day.
Did you relate to the concept/theme?
We related to light, bright, and fun colors and romantic feel of the shoot. Our wedding had a similar feel where we picked out brighter, and bolder colors for our decor and a fun romantic feel. Rakenzi really liked the contradiction of soft but bold feel of the shoot.
On Courtney: Shirt, Pants and Shoes from Tuxedo Den; Jacket and Tie from Macy’s // On Rakenzi: Haircomb by Luxurious Bridal; Jewelry from Macy’s; Gown from Sparkle Bridal Couture
What was your favorite part of the shoot?
Both of our favorite parts was getting to wear the different fun outfits. We both enjoyed seeing the different ways the spaces were decorated.
Tell us about your love story. How did you meet? What was the proposal like?
Like many modern romances, we met through a dating app. We matched on two different apps and after a strong pursuit by Courtney, we went out on our first date. Rakenzi was keeping options open, but she couldn’t resist the charm of Courtney. After dating for over a year, we got engaged in December 2020. Courtney proposed by creating a scavenger hunt to all the first date spots around Sacramento ending with Courtney proposing. At each spot, our family and friends were there to greet Rakenzi with her next clue.
On Courtney: Shirt, Pants and Shoes from Tuxedo Den; Jacket and Tie from Macy’s // On Rakenzi: Earrings by Style Avenue Studios; Gown from Sparkle Bridal Couture
Tell us about your wedding day.
Our wedding day was very relaxed and fun! We were married at a close family friend’s property in Woodland. Most of the day was spent with family and friends. Our ceremony was short and sweet, so that we could get to the good part: the party. Our reception was very relaxed where we had pizza for dinner and cupcakes for dessert. Overall it was a great day!
If you could offer any advice to engaged couples what would it be?
Get a wedding planner! At first, we thought we could plan our wedding on our own but our planner, Sara with Rainbow Weddings & Events, thought of things we never thought of. Our wedding day would not have been so enjoyable without Sara’s help. We would also say, do not stress the small stuff. This is about your love you have for each other and you and your guests will not even realize the small details are not perfect.
On Courtney: Suit, Shirt and Shoes from Tuxedo Den; Tie from Macy’s // On Rakenzi: Headpiece by Adora By Simona; Earrings from Macy’s; Gown from Sparkle Bridal Couture
Special thanks to our real couple models, Rakenzi + Courtney, and all of the professionals who contributed to this feature!
Click here to see more from this dynamic styled shoot!
Blog post by Real Weddings Magazine’s Editorial Contributor, Emily Peter-Corey.
Photos by Nichole Collins Photography / copyright Real Weddings Magazine.
