Stephanie & Beth married three years to the date of their first date at the place they shared their first kiss: the Rainbow Lighthouse in Long Beach, CA. A casual, intimate elopement celebration witnessed by their closest friends (and their beloved dog, Juvie), it was a day to remember!
Stephanie & Beth
How did you meet? We meet online through a dating website called “Zoosk”. Beth lived in Orange County and I (Steph) was in LA, so we choose Long Beach as a midway point for our first date. We spent hours walking around by the water and talking. Our first kiss was at the Long Beach Lighthouse – where we were married exactly 3 years later.
What is your proposal story?About 6 months after our first date; we returned to Long Beach. Beth had planned a beautiful, birthday getaway for me on the Queen Mary. It was an incredibly weekend even before she dropped to one knee and proposed outside the ice skating rink. She presented me with a small jar containing a clay replica of the Long Beach Lighthouse ( which she made herself). Circling the Lighthouse was the the most amazing engagement ring. I was blown away!! And to top it all off, the next morning was yet another surprise, I walked into the restaurant to find a group of my best friends ready to toast our engagement with a champagne brunch. Such an amazing time.
Tell us about your attire choices.I got my wedding dress online from KIYONNA and I highly recommend them. Their selection of Plus Sized wedding dresses was great. I tried on 3 different styles, but chose a long, slightly flowing, dress that I not only felt comfortable and beautiful in; but it also perfectly matched the spirit of our casual, waterfront wedding. I accessorized with colorful flowers provided by the amazing Flower Duets, comfortable but fun- metallic wedge heels by Clark’s and sentimental jewelry pieces from my mother and grandmothers. M
What were your favorite parts of the day? I loved spending the day in my hotel room surrounded by my best girlfriends; getting our hair & make up done, telling stories, drinking cocktails, laughing … it was the BEST. I also loved riding with them to the wedding. It was such a special time. … everything before (and after) was about Beth & I and I wouldn’t change a thing; but I’m so happy I got those special moments with my friends.
Do you have any advice for couples planning their weddings now?We decided on an elopement surrounded by a handful of friends; but that was only after we looked at many other options. Our wedding was the best option for us; and I would advise anyone getting married to do the same – make it your own. It doesn’t have to make sense to anyone but the couple getting married. Be comfortable. Be happy. It’s a celebration; remember that. Have fun.
Photography: Jessica Schilling Photography | Wedding Planning: Moxie Bright Events | Floral: Flower Duet | Beauty: Face It Sugar | Submitted via: Matchology
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