How did you and your partner meet?

I went out with a friend in New Brunswick and she introduced me to her friend Eric. We instantly hit it off, but there were a few hurdles in our way before we were able to go on a date. Everything fell into place, and well, 8 years later, here we are!

How did he / she propose?

Eric proposed at my nursing school graduation party. He wanted to do it in front of my large family!

Do you have any budget tips for other couples?

Try to shop around for accessories on websites such as Etsy - my veil and hairpiece (both from Etsy) were significantly less expensive (and handmade!) compared to similar styles I’ve tried on at bridal stores.

If you had it to do over again, is there anything you would do differently?

I would have eaten a healthy breakfast! The morning went by extremely quickly.

What are you most looking forward to?

Saying “my husband”, and having a fancy pizza party.

What was your favorite moment from the day?

Walking up towards Eric for our first look.

Describe your ceremony in three words:

Short but sweet

Who is your officiant? How did you choose him/her?

My officiant is actually my brother’s partner, Noel. I found out a year ago that he was certified to officiate weddings, and I thought it would be special to have someone close in the family marry us.

Why did you choose the ceremony and reception locations?

Eric and I didn’t want a large traditional banquet hall wedding, we actually wanted to elope. While out furniture shopping one day, the salesman was telling us about a wedding he recently went to at Porta. I was intrigued- I didn’t know they did weddings! We went to check out the room and we fell in love- it was the only venue we looked at!

How would you describe your reception theme?

Rustic and romantic, non traditional

Are there any DIY details you’d like to tell us about?

Eric and I will be decorating mason jars for the floral centerpieces (twine and gold paint)

Tell us about the cake!!

From confections of a rock$tar: vanilla bean with raspberry cake, graham cracker crumbs on the bottom, cream cheese frosting. Semi naked decorated with real flowers.

What inspired you when you were planning your wedding?

I loved the natural look of burlap/twine and the dark, burgundy color that will be in my bouquet and centerpieces.

What food are you most looking forward to on the wedding reception menu?

Porta’s pizza!

What is the first dance song? Father/daughter or mother/son dance?

First dance: Wait by the River by Lord Huron

Father/daughter: Sweet Pea by Amos Lee

What were your vows like?

Heartfelt and honest.

What was your favorite thing about your wedding ceremony?

Hearing Eric recite his vows, he surprised me!

Were there specific blogs / websites / apps / resource materials you found useful during your planning process?

Mostly just Pinterest and Etsy

What was your favorite part of the planning process?

A lot! I loved going to NYC with my mom to pick out my dress, putting together the invitations, and cake testing.

What advice do you have for other couples in the midst of planning a wedding?

Don’t stress over minor details or try too hard for everything to be “perfect”. Also, when planning, don’t drive your fiancée crazy with wedding talk 24/7, give it a break once in awhile.