Genevie Haro never imagined that she would meet the love of her life, Chad White, on the very last day she accessed a dating website. “I am beyond happy I met my match before deactivating the account,” she expresses. As the relationship blossomed, the pair took a vacation together to Costa Rica. At sunset one evening, Chad asked a stranger to take a photo of them while he surprised Genevie by popping the question. Completely stunned, she answered her sweetheart with “I do” instead of “yes” as the moment was captured on camera. Soon enough, she would officially recite her first response.

With help from Genevie’s youngest sister as the wedding planner, the duo elected to tie the knot in Long Beach, California, their beloved city where they reside. Envisioning a contemporary twist on traditional wedding trends, they incorporated elegant and rustic elements throughout the venue. “We wanted to prove we could create something beautiful out of tossed, distressed items such as the old candlestick holders, chains, lounge furniture, mirrors, etc. Simple, sophisticated, rugged, mismatched, and textured were keywords we carried in the back of our minds throughout the entire process,” Genevie describes. The theme was accompanied by lush greenery and blue spray-painted eucalyptus berries as seen in the bridal and bridesmaid bouquets. Minimizing flowers, the couple exchanged vows in front of a verdant crosshatched statement piece attached to the wall.

As the ceremony featured a live mariachi band, Genevie’s other sister joined the musicians during cocktail hour and dedicated a beautiful song to her sister and new brother-in-law. Their 90 guests also enjoyed the custom menu selections, craft cocktails, and other personalized details. “Instead of a guest book, we bought a glass globe and special markers for guests to leave notes on. The globe is a reference to our love for traveling around the world. Personalized coasters were made for guests to leave advice on,” she recalls. In addition, the couple created do-it-yourself table numbers and rustic chains that connected the suspended arrangements. The entire night was filled with music, dancing, and wonderful spirit.

Reflecting on all aspects of her magical day, Genevie insists other couples prioritize the importance and uniqueness of customizing any details you desire: “Tailor it according to what’s best for your personalities. Don’t be afraid of expressing yourselves, even if that means breaking tradition. You can even start your own.”