What was the most important thing for you about finding the perfect dress?
I really wanted a dress that was unique, but that would also stand the test of time — classy and timeless. After that, I needed something that I would feel confident and beautiful in, and lastly that I could dance the night away with my groom in!
A bonus about the dress I ended up choosing: my grandmother, who passed away in August 2017, wore a bright pink dress on her wedding day to my grandpa more than 55 years ago. After saying yes to my dress, my mom and I both realized that my dress was “pink” (blush) like Grammy’s was. It made it feel like she was there with me the whole time, even though we missed her so much.
What was the best personal moments of your wedding day?
A few moments from our big day stick out to me. Before the wedding day even began, the night before, all my bridesmaids sat around in our jammies for a champagne toast to me. This sounds a little self congratulatory, but it is a tradition some of my closest friends started a few years ago when the first one in our group got married. There are only a few other times in my life when I’ve felt so loved and cherished and I will never forget that experience.
First thing on our wedding day, when my mom arrived at the house we were getting ready at she sat down on the couch with my sister and me, wrapped us both up in a big hug and told us how proud and thankful she was to be our mom. We all cried, and it was such a beautiful and calming way to start the day off.
Jordan and my’s first look is another unforgettable moment. Although he is a complete man’s man, Jordan also has a sweet tender side with me. This completely showed through during out first look when he let his emotions get the best of him and it sunk in to both of us that we were finally getting married after 6 1/2 years! I’m so glad we decided to schedule that into our timeline.
Lastly, I will always remember a few sweet moments with my dad. When we were walking down the aisle, he said “Maddog, you’re shaking!” I was so nervous, but he held my hand and made me laugh, cutting the tension immediately. He also gave the most touching toast at our reception and I will never forget the advice he gave — to always be each other’s advocates and never an adversary.
Please share something that stood out on your wedding day?
Looking back on the wedding day, I’m pretty sure I had a smile from ear to ear plastered on my face the entire day! Leading up to the wedding I was pretty anxious about being able to stay present in the moment and enjoy everything without stressing about details. From the moment I woke up until we shut down the dance floor at midnight, everything surpassed my expectations and Jordan and I were so genuinely happy. Truly the happiest I’ve felt over an entire day, in my life.
What was your inspiration for your wedding day and dress?
Jordan and I both grew up in cattle ranching families where Western heritage was a huge part of our upbringing. We chose to honor that with both the location (his Grandmother’s ranch) and the decor and details of our wedding. I tried to channel “Sophisticated Western Elegance” with as many details as possible, along with several subtle pink accents as a nod to my blush dress.
Any advise to future brides?
First, remember that your wedding is only one day of your marriage and no matter what happens that day is not necessarily a reflection of your union with your sweetheart. Second, make sure you practice the “buddy system” with your groom. Don’t let yourselves get separated for too long during the reception, and make sure you take time away from greeting all your guests to enjoy the awesome party you’re putting on.
