How did you meet?
Still seems cliche and taboo, but we met on Tinder.
Tell us about your engagement.
Approximately seven or so years of dating, after buying our first house and our lovable golden retriever, Kevin asked and I said yes. He took me to dinner back where it all began in San Francisco at the beach where we had spent so many of our days in the first year of our relationship.
#WeddingGoals
We knew we wanted great photos and videos that we would have forever to remember the day, knowing the day would go fast (we made the right choice with Imagery by Carissa Dugoni!). We also wanted our dog there and to just have the best day with all our favorite people. And ice cream—because May in Sacramento is hot!
How did planning go?
It was stressful. Planning a big party with timelines and depending on others is not a small task. I had a meltdown when my first wedding planner backed out, and there was a disagreement over funds. We were so lucky and grateful that we found Janelle from Blissfully Elegant Events who made everything so easy. After a few chats, I felt completely reassured and confident with her, knowing things happen for a reason…and I’m so glad they did.
Biggest Challenge
Both working lots of hours at our normal jobs, plus planning at the same time, felt like there was not enough time in the day.
How was the Ceremony?
We kept the ceremony short and sweet. We picked out songs that really fit us and our story. And, we had my husband’s brother marry us, which was perfectly made for my husband and I. It was just the right amount of seriousness, thoughtfulness, and comedy.
Memorable Moments
Just being able to look at my husband and know the stress was over after we sat down from our first dance, and could enjoy the rest of the night together celebrating.
Special Dances:
First Dance: Grow Old With You by Adam Sandler
Mother/Son Dance: When You Say Nothing At All by Alison Kraus
Mother/Daughter Dance: Where You Lead by Carole King
Father/Daughter Dance: When You Say Nothing At All by Alison Kraus
Money Dance: Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley
Cake Cutting Dance: How Sweet It Is by James Taylor
Last Dance: You Look Like You Love Me by Ella Langley
What was the best part of your day?
Karissa: After the ceremony, when we walked back down the aisle and our wedding planner handed us our favorite drinks to celebrate our marriage.
Austin: Watching my wife walk down the aisle.
Favorite Detail
The way everything looked at the ceremony and reception. Also our Photo Booth wall we created was such a fun last minute addition.
Looking back, what do you think your guests will remember most about your wedding?
Our ice cream served, and that we released doves at the end of the ceremony.
Advice from the Couple
Enjoy the planning process and try to do as much with your partner as possible.
What would you have done differently?
I (Karissa) wish we would have had planning meetings together. And stressed less about inviting everyone.
