There’s something undeniably charming about discovering that two people found love online. It’s as if the world has become a smaller place, where connections can be forged across vast distances. As I read through our couples’ ‘how we met’ stories, I’m always excited to see how their unique tales unfold. And what better way to celebrate this modern era of love than with the union of Jennica and Paul?
Their intimate ceremony and reception at The Clayton on the Park in Scottsdale, Arizona, was a masterclass in blending rustic charm with elegant sophistication. Jay & Jess Photography beautifully captured the whimsical atmosphere, which featured an airy, modern setting that gave way to cozy touches like bright floral centrepieces and glistening burlap runners.
As I gaze upon Jennica’s stunning Allure Bridal gown (and don’t miss the breathtaking bouquet), it’s clear that this bride was a vision of loveliness. Meanwhile, Paul’s beaming face during their first look is simply infectious. It’s moments like these that make me believe that love knows no bounds—not even those of time and space. I also appreciate how Jennica honored her late grandfather by reserving a special spot for him in the front row.
This thoughtful gesture serves as a poignant reminder of the many ways couples choose to pay tribute to their loved ones on their wedding day.
Wedding Day Snapshot
There’s something undeniably charming about discovering that two people found love online. It’s as if the world has become a smaller place, where connections can be forged across vast distances. As I read through our couples’ ‘how we met’ stories, I’m always excited to see how their unique tales unfold. And what better way to celebrate this modern era of love than with the union of Jennica and Paul?
Their intimate ceremony and reception at The Clayton on the Park in Scottsdale, Arizona, was a masterclass in blending rustic charm with elegant sophistication. Jay & Jess Photography beautifully captured the whimsical atmosphere, which featured an airy, modern setting that gave way to cozy touches like bright floral centrepieces and glistening burlap runners.
As I gaze upon Jennica’s stunning Allure Bridal gown (and don’t miss the breathtaking bouquet), it’s clear that this bride was a vision of loveliness. Meanwhile, Paul’s beaming face during their first look is simply infectious. It’s moments like these that make me believe that love knows no bounds—not even those of time and space. I also appreciate how Jennica honored her late grandfather by reserving a special spot for him in the front row.
This thoughtful gesture serves as a poignant reminder of the many ways couples choose to pay tribute to their loved ones on their wedding day.
Our Love Story
Paul and I had a unique introduction – we met online; A friend at work had been encouraging me to try dating, so I signed up for an online platform. After spending about five hours browsing profiles, Paul caught my attention with his non-creepy approach. We started chatting, and I ended up deleting my account because I was so drawn to him. Our communication flowed naturally, and we exchanged numbers, eventually starting our relationship.
Fast forward to the proposal – we had both been rising early on a Saturday morning to volunteer at the JDRF walk in Phoenix. As I got out of the shower, I walked into our bedroom and spotted an engagement ring sitting on my makeup vanity, carefully placed in a box by Paul. Seeing it, I couldn’t help but tear up, and just as I was composing myself, Paul walked in and asked me to be his forever partner.
Our Wedding
Our wedding had a rustic charm that perfectly reflected our love for cozy, laid-back designs. We wanted to create an atmosphere that felt warm and inviting, rather than stiff or formal. To achieve this, we drew inspiration from the vibrant flowers we both adore – in particular, the striking oranges and pinks that added a pop of color to our celebration. While these hues may not be traditional fall colors, they brought a unique energy to our special day.
The Photography
Jay and Jess possess a unique combination of artistic flair and genuine warmth, making them the perfect captures of life’s precious moments. Their authenticity shines through in every frame, making it impossible to envision anyone else immortalizing your most cherished memories.
The Venue
We were particularly fond of the accessibility of The Clayton on the Park, which made it an attractive option for out-of-state guests who appreciated the convenience of being just a short walk from hotels, bars, and entertainment options in Old Town Scottsdale. This all-in-one venue also offered in-house catering services, allowing us to streamline our planning process by hosting both our ceremony and reception on site. To top it off, the food was exceptional.
Personal Touches
Paul’s outdoor cigar bar and lounge area were a testament to his unique personality, making the night an unforgettable experience. Meanwhile, our DJ crafted a playlist that held special significance for each of my friends, with personalized song requests that had been carefully curated ahead of time. The atmosphere was electric, with spontaneous dance moves that left some attendees convinced they were watching a choreographed routine.
Adding an extra layer of emotional depth to the evening was the framed photo of my grandfather, who had passed away several years prior but remained dear to me. I wanted him to be honored and remembered in a meaningful way, which is why he took pride of place in the front row. Furthermore, I decided to have both my brother and father accompany me down the aisle, as they are two people I hold extremely close to my heart.
My brother’s presence was particularly special, as we share a deep bond that made it only fitting for him to be by my side on this momentous occasion.
The Music
As we exchanged vows, a curated soundtrack of love and celebration set the tone. Ed Sheeran’s instrumental rendition of Processional accompanied us as we began our journey together. The recessional featured The Black Keys’ upbeat tune, You’re the One, as we made our way out into the sun. Family members joined in with a mix of timeless classics, including ‘The Wedding Song’ by Bob Dylan and ‘Your Song’ by Elton John.
The Flowers
When it comes to choosing flowers for arrangements, several options can be considered. For instance, bouquets can feature ranunculus, dahlias, peonies, and a more unconventional choice like barley or hops. Boutonnières, on the other hand, are often created using hops and barley due to their unique textures and shapes that add an interesting dimension.
As for centerpieces, roses, ranunculus, thistle, and combinations of flowers like peonies and dahlias can be used alongside elements like barley or hops to create visually striking displays.
The Budget
While I did treat myself to a more luxurious wedding dress, we managed to keep most of the expenses in check. The same goes for our invitations – at $600 for 80 pieces, they were a bit pricier than expected. However, their custom-made design made them well worth the investment. In the end, our big day came with a total price tag of around $32,000.
Advice for Other Couples
As you embark on your special day, remember to have fun. It’s essential to keep things in perspective and not get too caught up in the planning process. Research thoroughly, but don’t be afraid to say no or seek alternative advice if it feels right for you. After all, this is your once-in-a-lifetime celebration, so make it count. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to achieve perfection – most of the minor details that cause stress won’t matter in the grand scheme.
To stay organized and on top of finances, consider using an Excel spreadsheet to track budgets, payments, and contracts. This can help reduce your overall stress levels. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy every moment of your wedding day. As we’ve seen from Jennica and Paul’s special day, the results can be truly magical.