Natalie and Steven met while playing basketball at California Lutheran University where both were point guards for their respective teams. Over one Christmas break, the men’s and women’s teams were some of the only students on campus due to practices and games. “We started hanging out together because of one of our mutual friends,” shares Natalie. “I posted a Taylor Swift pick-up line video on her Facebook page with the caption, ‘These would totally work on me!’ and the next day Steven used one of the pick-up lines. We have been inseparable ever since.”
Originally from Minnesota, Natalie is a die-hard Twins fan and told Steven that Target Field is her favorite place in the world. While visiting her family, Natalie’s dad pulled some strings to get them on the field for batting practice before a game. Steven handed Natalie a baseball that said, “Will you marry me?” and got down on one knee. Natalie’s family surprised them and spent the evening watching the baseball game. “It was amazing to be on the field with players around and to have my family there to help us celebrate,” says Natalie.
Planning for the wedding started early. “We visited four venues in one day and both quickly agreed that Helwig was for us,” says the bride. “Once we saw the wine cave doors open to the ceremony space it just felt right.”
Finding her dress was definitely a highlight of the process for Natalie. “My mom, my best friend (and maid of honor) and I went to Kleinfeld Bridal in New York. My mom and I have watched Say Yes to the Dress together for years, so it only felt right to visit Kleinfeld,” she says. “The experience was incredible. I was able to meet Hayley Paige, the designer of my dress, and my consultant Shay was honestly so amazing. It was truly a ‘say yes to the dress’ moment.”
During their “fairytale” ceremony, Natalie and Steven exchanged personal vows that included a few Taylor Swift lyrics. “Our pastor, Chris, did a great job explaining our love story and explaining agape love, which truly describes our love,” says Natalie. Adds Steven, “Being in front of so many people you love and care about is already exciting, but stating your vows and seeing the woman of your dreams in front of you elevates that. I just wish we had had more time to celebrate after.”
The reception that followed kicked off with great speeches, including a rap from the best man and lots of dancing. “The dance floor was constantly full and guests enjoyed the flower photo backdrop wall and our French fry bar,” says the couple. “We both really loved our first dance. As cliché as it sounds, it was such a special moment. It felt like it was just the two of us out there dancing as husband and wife.”
—Darren Elms
