Sometimes the numbers just align. Meryl and Taylor both shared a “90-something percent” match on the popular dating website OkCupid. After exchanging several emails, the pair decided to meet for coffee and a walk in a nearby park. Turns out the website calculations were spot on and the two soon became an item.
Taylor proposed to Meryl on their four-year anniversary at a favorite restaurant in San Francisco. “While we waited for our table, the hostess brought out an envelope with my name on it,” she remembers. “I was a little confused at first, as I was not expecting a proposal.” She opened the envelope and the question was written on the card inside. “He didn’t get down on one knee because he knows I hate drawing attention to myself, but he pulled out the beautiful ring,” she adds. “I was so surprised and completely overjoyed, and of course I said yes.”
With few expectations on how the wedding should be planned, the couple agreed they just wanted to show their gratitude to close family and friends for their love and support. “We were very focused on making sure everyone had a great time,” says Meryl. “We tried not to have any specific expectations so we could just relax and enjoy the day.” To achieve this, they also started the process well in advance to reduce any planning induced stress.
Keeping with the theme, they kept the ceremony simple and sweet. “Our officiant, Reverend Rick Tan, helped us write our ceremony words and we included several non-religious readings that really spoke to us as a couple,” says the bride.
Guests moved on to the terrace at The Citizen Hotel for a joyous reception, full of delicious food, flowing drinks and plenty of dancing. “Our favorite moments were the toasts given by our parents and members of the wedding party,” shares Meryl. “They were truly thoughtful and heartfelt and we loved listening to them.”
The couple also fondly remembers their first look on the suite balcony at the hotel. “The city view was breathtaking and it was nice to have a quiet moment alone in the middle of our busy day,” she recalls. “It was perfect and helped to calm our nerves and reflect on our love for each other.”
—Darren Elms
