Kelly and John were a fast match, first meeting on a dating app. They both quickly ditched the app knowing they found someone special. As Kelly says, they were two awkward people who managed to find each other in a world of mundane dates and missed connections. The beauty of their matchup in a place not meant for magic came to a head on a day when John booked a day of glamour for Kelly—an actual ruse for his plan to propose. Once they were engaged, Kelly says they decided they wanted “a big party to celebrate our unique love and blending of our families.”
The elements of Kelly and John’s ceremony were not only carefully planned but put into action with clear intentions. Kelly explains, “The tea ceremony was to symbolize sharing happiness in the simple everyday things. The ring exchange symbolized the sun and the earth and the universe as a wholeness and harmony and union as a family.”
Their reception was no different, with personal touches and welcoming practices woven throughout the entire event. Guests sent in song requests along with their RSVP, John designed board game-themed table assignments and guests received not one but two different wedding favors: cactus bottle openers and mini potted succulents. The overall décor was dedicated to their combined uniqueness, and even the artwork curated for the reception. As Kelly explains, “We commissioned a few of our artist friends to create unique artwork of us as a couple to be displayed throughout the reception.”
The personal touches did not stop at the décor, though. Kelly says, “We are goofy, silly people and our wedding needed to reflect that.” A photo booth, lawn games and three signature cocktails dedicated to their special day gave it a personal vibe as chill and fun as the bride and groom themselves.
Although Kelly says the entire day is emblazoned in her memory, she was particularly touched by how much pride and joy their parents expressed at their union. “More than anything our wedding just showcased how inviting and fun we are, and how we are fortunate enough to be surrounded by great people who also share that energy,” she says.
Their love remains stalwart, the newly committed status serving as a legal representation of what their hearts and heads already knew. Though Kelly acknowledges that there is always a possibility of bigger and better things to come. “It’s still sinking in,” she says. “The way we feel about each other has only gotten stronger.”
—Abigail Blank
