What was the most important thing for you about finding the perfect dress?

I wanted to feel like a princess in my dress, but I also wanted it to be whimsical and a bit bohemian for my inner-hippie-artistic heart. This dress had it all.  I fell in love with the lace details in the bodice and the beautiful flowing skirt. It was the first dress I tried on and I didn’t want to take it off.

What was the best personal moments of your wedding day?
First look was my favorite moment because Joel and I had been busy setting up the wedding with our friends and family, and of course, been avoiding seeing each other all day until that very moment. I loved seeing his reaction to my dress and I loved having that special, quiet moment with him all to myself before the hustle and bustle of the celebration began.

Please share something that stood out on your wedding day?
We have a child, 18 months old and he was in the wedding. I loved being able to share the day with him and What stood out was the outpour of love and support our family and friends gave us by helping set up and take down the entire wedding.

What was your inspiration for your wedding day and dress?
The ceremony aesthetics were completely DIY and we kept it simple. My inspiration was for an outdoor garden party with a lot of personal touches.  I handmade all of the signs that were used and my mother made a dream catcher that hung in one of the beautiful old Chico trees. I wanted a dress with natural and delicate details; a touch of vintage and an organic architectural feel that went along with the setting of The Chico Women’s Club in Chico’s beautiful Bidwell Park.

Any advise to future brides?
The most important thing was to remember that the day was a celebration of our relationship, surrounded by our family and friends. All we needed was to share the day together, eat good food, drink, and enjoy lots of dancing! We didn’t want to get lost in the details and wanted to be as relaxed as possible on the day, just soaking up every minute of it.

Photographer: Ariana Mohoroski/ SMa Photo  | Second Photographer: Susie Mendoza Photography | Wedding Dress: Always Elegant Bridal, designed by Willowby by Watters | Venue: Chico Women’s Club | Cake/Dessert: Lovely Layers | Caterer: Truck-A-Roni | DJ/Music: Steve Goodman | Rentals: A&J Party Center |Invitations: Minted | Men’s attire: Men’s Warehouse