“After years of building a life together, marriage wasn’t something we initially sought out — it felt like an unnecessary formality. But over time, through a lot of growth and dedication to one another, we realized we wanted to celebrate what we had created. One evening, I came home to find a random Pokémon ball on the table. When I asked about it, Brian smiled, got down on one knee, and asked me to marry him. A month later, we were married at the courthouse — simple, joyful, and exactly right for us. Though we didn’t desire a grand ceremony, we knew we wanted to eventually gather our families and friends for a celebration of everything we had built together. A year later, we did just that. Our love story isn’t a traditional one — we met in college through a mutual friend, and our first meeting was anything but graceful. Nerves got the best of me, and a few too many drinks led to a very memorable (and embarrassing) first impression. Thankfully, Brian thought it was hilarious, and what followed was a month of late-night conversations, laughter, and genuine connection that laid the foundation for our relationship. Over the years, through moves, career changes, and life’s inevitable challenges, we chose each other again and again, growing stronger along the way. Brian remains my best friend, and being able to share our wedding day with the people who shaped our lives meant everything to us. Choosing L’Auberge de Sedona as our venue felt serendipitous. We wanted a private, intimate setting with beautiful outdoor spaces and easy access for our guests — something that felt natural, comfortable, and truly us. After struggling to find the right fit in California, a trip to Sedona revealed the perfect place: stunning views, peaceful surroundings, and the ideal spot to host a weekend that felt both magical and relaxed. Our planner, Kelsey Finland, brought our vision to life even better than we could have imagined, creating a celebration full of heartfelt moments, laughter, and beauty. The day was filled with unforgettable memories — from the emotional moment of seeing my mother-in-law cry and realizing I had gained another family, to hearing Brian’s vows that still bring a smile to my face, to sharing slices of gluten-free wedding cake the morning after with loved ones. If we could offer any advice to couples planning a wedding, it would be this: hire a planner you trust completely, and consider saving your honeymoon for your one-year anniversary — it gives you even more to look forward to, and allows you to savor every part of the journey.”
– Christin, the bride
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