After matching on a popular dating app, Kathryn Barron and Stanley Elton knew they wanted to meet in person. “Our coffee date turned into a hike, and later a movie at my house. He met my dad that very day [and] at the end of the date, I walked him out of our garage and kissed him goodnight,” Kathryn reflects. Their love blossomed, and Stanley popped the question while the two were exploring the sand dunes in St. George, Utah. “I screamed and dropped my helmet. He was so nervous [that] he could barely make out words, but I said, ‘Yes!’ right away,” she reveals.

The couple decided to tie the knot on Kathryn’s parents’ wedding anniversary in Southern California. They arranged for a personalized, spiritual ceremony in lieu of traditional customs. “We aren’t religious, but wanted something meaningful and timeless. We chose the theme of a ‘circle’ and referenced it with the rings and a few Native American sayings. We related to their culture’s respect for the earth, living creatures, honor, and family,” the bride explains. Additional customized details included the round floral arch and aisle lined with greenery and ornamental grass. “I am in love [with how it turned out] and want that recreated in my home garden,” she says.

Since the bride is a professional wedding planner, she felt comfortable organizing her own event. She pursued a romantic Old World theme with a palette of burgundy and blush that was offset by greenery. “I wanted it to be reminiscent of France mixed with the whimsy of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Everything was refined, but natural,” Kathryn describes. She executed the theme through a heavy emphasis on flowers, which proved to be the main component of the décor. “Every element and detail was super important to me, but I definitely spent more than usual on flowers. [It was] worth every penny,” she states. Stanley was ecstatic about the surprise groom’s cake, which was a three-dimensional replica of his truck with the couple’s two beloved pups sitting in the trunk. The rest of the evening was spent with great music, liveliness, and good company.

Considering her wedding planning expertise, Kathryn admits the importance of enjoying the process. “Just to have fun with it. Yes, it might get stressful and tedious at times, but never forget the big picture. You are in love and marrying your best friend!”