How did you meet?
Hinge App. Our first date was at a local bar called Prizefighter; we had the welcome cocktail hour there the night before the wedding.
Tell us about your engagement.
August 11 2023, We were with a couple of close friends at our family cabin in Truckee, and went out on a dock at the lake around golden hour for some photos. Jesse proposed while we posed for a photo.
#WeddingGoals
We wanted to have a few moments to take it all in, because we knew the day would be busy and go by so quickly, so we had a sweetheart table for the reception to have some time to ourselves.
How was planning?
Planning was hectic. We did most of it ourselves and concurrently with home improvement projects, which I would not recommend. The best part was the day of the event—when all the planning and preparing was finally over! The worst moment was when our water heater died in the middle of a storm right before the wedding.
Biggest Challenge
Cutting back our guest list to fit our budget.
How was the Ceremony?
The location was gorgeous and inspired a sense of magic.
Memorable Moments
We paid for the groom’s parents to take dancing lessons, and seeing them in action was fun. Also, taking in the new yard renovation with a wedding was a hit. Obviously, our first dance was the most memorable.
Special Dance:
First Dance: My Girl by The Temptations
What was the best part of your day?
Lora: Celebrating with our closest friends and family.
Jesse: Finally getting to say ‘I do,’ seeing my beautiful bride, and having our family surrounding us in such a magical setting. I’ll never forget it.
Lora’s Favorite Detail
Recreating old photos at the family home, on the front porch in our wedding attire with family. It was great to see the photos side by side and recognize the home.
Looking back, what do you think your guests will remember most about your wedding?
That it was a fun and intimate event. Our guest list was on the smaller side, which allowed us to spend more time with each guest throughout the night.
Advice from the Couple
Wedding planning is stressful no matter what. Set a budget that is within your means, make a list of priorities, and stick to it.
What would you have done differently?
Taken more time off work in preparation for the wedding. Although we felt like we had a handle on things, once everything is coming together in the weeks leading up to the wedding, it gets stressful very quickly. With family coming into town your ability to host and entertain while also taking it all in becomes stressful.
