WEDDING: Coronado Moody Midnight Garden
I hope you enjoy the following interview with our Bride Kaelyn:
KAELYN & RICKY | Meeting and Dating
Our love story began in a way that might seem quite fitting for the digital age. Ricky and I matched on Hinge one summer while I was living in NYC and he was finishing up his job with the army in Georgia. Although he was spending some time at his parents’ home in Los Angeles, he had set his location to NYC because he planned to move there at the end of the summer.
Our initial conversations were lively and engaging. When I mentioned a trip to Salt Lake City with some friends, Ricky saw an opportunity. He suggested we meet there, explaining that he had a cousin in Salt Lake City he intended to visit. And so, our first two dates took place in the scenic landscapes of Salt Lake City. Just a month later, Ricky moved to NYC, and our relationship truly began to flourish.
The early days of our relationship were filled with excitement and adventure. We explored the city together, discovering new restaurants, parks, and events. It was during these moments that we felt a special connection forming. A few months later, Ricky had to fly back to Los Angeles because his father, Fred, was in hospice. Unfortunately, Fred passed away in October 2021. In December, Ricky’s family hosted a celebration of life for Fred at their home, and Ricky invited me to attend.
Meeting Ricky’s entire family for the first time in such a meaningful and emotional setting was a pivotal moment for both of us. Seeing how Ricky supported his mother and sisters, and how kindly he treated everyone, made me realize he was the one I wanted to spend my life with. It was then that we both knew this relationship was something truly special.
the Proposal
Ricky proposed during Thanksgiving week when we were with my family in DC. Even my brother, who lives in Singapore, was back home. It was incredibly special, and my entire family was involved in planning the surprise. Although I had a hunch that Ricky might propose around the holidays, I didn’t know exactly when or how it would happen.
One rainy day, my parents and sister convinced me to visit a “new” museum in DC. We ended up at the portrait gallery, which was familiar to me. My parents and sister suggested we get coffee at the museum cafe, and then we visited a special exhibit with a multi-level indoor courtyard. As we walked around the second level, Ricky suddenly appeared, freshly showered and dressed in a nice button-down shirt. I was shocked to see him there, but I immediately knew what was happening. Surrounded by my family, I could hardly concentrate on Ricky’s proposal speech, but I knew my answer was an enthusiastic “yes.”
Engagement Photos in Coronado, California
We had an amazing engagement session with our photographer, Jennifer Dery. It felt so euphoric and natural, especially to be taking photos at our wedding venue in Coronado and envisioning that we would back there just a few months later. I would definitely recommend other couples do an engagement session to get a feel for your photographer, become more comfortable behind the lens in general, and just to commemorate all the love and emotions of that pre-wedding high.
Help with Planning a Long-Distance Coronado Wedding
Planning a wedding is challenging enough, but doing it from a distance adds an extra layer of complexity. The biggest hurdle for us was the time zone difference to California, which made reaching out to vendors and making quick decisions difficult. However, it also helped us be decisive from the start and avoid second-guessing our choices. Zoom meetings became a crucial tool for keeping everyone organized and on schedule.
Our biggest supporters during the planning process were our family and friends. Their encouragement and assistance were invaluable in managing the long-distance challenges.
Choosing a Destination Photographer
“We chose Jennifer Dery for her photojournalistic style.”
We really wanted images that captured the emotions of the day and certain special memories vs all posed and styled shots. Her portfolio really speaks for itself in terms of the range she’s able to cover and from day 1 she was super responsive and hands-on explaining the whole process and what steps we could expect as the bride and groom. Planning a wedding is already so overwhelming in and of itself and Jennifer did a fantastic job of taking away any stress over photography and made us feel confident she would get the job done.
The Wedding Day in Coronado, CA
The morning of our wedding was a mix of calmness and excitement. As I got my makeup and hair done with my bridesmaids, I felt elated that our special day had finally arrived. Even during the first look with Ricky, I wasn’t nervous. But once we arrived at the church and went to our separate rooms to await the ceremony, my nerves kicked in. It was an anxious-excited feeling—I couldn’t wait to see Ricky at the end of the aisle, but I was also incredibly nervous.
The ceremony was perfect. One of the most memorable moments was the homily by Father Lucas, where he spoke about the moment Ricky and I knew we were meant for each other. It was especially poignant because it coincided with the celebration of Ricky’s father’s life, where I first met his entire family.
Working with Jennifer Dery Photography
Jennifer was incredible on our wedding day. She made everything enjoyable and easy, giving just the right amount of direction while also blending into the background. She captured the emotions and candid moments perfectly, making it feel like she was simply observing the natural flow of the day. Her ability to document these meaningful moments so authentically was truly impressive.
Wedding Planning Advice for Newly Engaged Couples
I Would recommend that other couples definitely make sure to establish open communication with the vendors you’re working with and use a full-service wedding planner to help with the long distance! The more clear you are upfront about your vision, budget, and non-negotiables the easier the whole feedback loop becomes. Would also recommend working with people you trust so that once you communicate your goals, you can allow them to really run with it!
CREATIVE PARTNERS
Planner/Producer/Designer: @thatermade
Photo: @jenniferderyphoto | jenniferdery.com
Floral: @organicelements
Venue: @delcoronado
Music: @luckydevilsband
Coffee: @thecoffeecartsd
Lighting: @brillianteventlighting
Photo Booth: @pixsterphotobooth
Hair: @brooklyncardenas
Makeup: @thatgoddessglow
Rentals: @wonder.eventrentals @brighteventrentals @aprboutiqueevent Candles: @socalcandlerentals