Heather Wearing The Heila Dress

Congratulations, Heather & Lance on their magical beach elopement! Photography by Sarah Vendramini.

So tell us, how did you meet the love of your life?

We met on a dating app! Both of us were tired of being set up or dating within our network. We both work typical 8-5 jobs and meeting someone in a “traditional” setting wouldn’t have worked. It was a great experience getting to know each other and deciding if a date was worth the time and it was! We knew we wanted to marry each other the day we met!

What is your favorite part about them that lights up your life?

We both push each other to be better in every aspect. We are each other’s source of calmness, normalcy, and happiness.

Was there a specific moment when you knew they were the one?

First date!

Tell us the story of the proposal!

We were visiting Lance’s family in San Francisco in May of 2021. It was our first time up there with our dog, Ringo, and we thought it would be fun if we took him to explore the city. So the 3 of us ended up at Chrissy field with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Mind you it was a very cold, windy typical spring San Francisco day (if you know, you know). But dogs were allowed on the beach, so we sucked it up. Lance had asked a family to take a photo of us 3 since the bridge was in the shot. And right then, Lance got down on one knee and pulled out a ring! Ringo and another dog came running up at this exact moment and thought Lance was holding treats. Don’t worry - no dogs ingested an expensive piece of jewelry. I was super surprised and not expecting it to happen! Once Lance placed that ring on my finger, the clouds opened up and the sun came out.

How would you describe your personal style? What was most important to you when choosing your wedding dress?

I’ve never liked a “poofy” or “frilly” wedding dress. That’s not my style normally so why incorporate it into my wedding day? I’m very tall and have a long stature so I wanted something to highlight that. Anything poofy would make me feel… large and frumpy. Ultimately, I wanted long sleeves as well, and a timeless look.

How did you first find Wear Your Love? What initially drew you to us?

Etsy! And I liked the fact I didn’t have to go to bridal boutiques and expect to pay thousands of dollars. Not to mention having people give me their opinions on how I should look. I already had the vision of what I wanted and didn’t need to appease others just to tell them I knew better. Lol! I also appreciated that Wear Your Love dresses are hand-made in California. And I would have the dress made to order by my body measurements. It was a win-win!

Which dress did you choose, and how did you know it was the one? Did you request any customizations?

The Heila dress. I instantly fell in love with the high-neck, long sleeves, with the timeless lace pattern. It was simple and elegant at the same time.

We know buying a wedding dress online can be scary, what made you take the leap of faith and become a Wear Your Love bride?

The reviews were helpful. And I spent countless hours researching snd scanning Instagram.

For brides who might be nervous about buying their dress online, what would you say to them?

It’s not for everyone. But if you’re eloping like I did, highly recommend it! It’s a less than traditional route, but that’s what was appealing.

What went through your mind when the Wear Your Love box arrived at your doorstep and you tried on your dress for the first time?

Relieved and excited! It was one step closer to being married.

Tell us about your wedding! Was it important to you to have a large wedding, a smaller ceremony, or intimate elopement? Did your wedding have a theme or style?

We had an intimate ceremony in Montecito on Butterfly Beach just the 2 of us, a friend who officiated us, and our photographer. And just like our proposal, it was very windy and a cloud was blocking the sun during our exchange of vows. This actually helped us get the perfect photos! Once we said “I do”, the clouds broke and golden hour hit. It felt very serendipitous.

How did your wedding reflect your unique relationship?

Lance and I have always wanted to elope. Contrary to our behavior, we have both been in close to 10 weddings each. We know the behind the scenes build up and the stress to ensure everyone’s happiness. Not to mention the layered stress of COVID. It wouldn’t have been about us. However, eloping made it about us. And that’s what we have learned about our relationship: keep each other happy and everything will work out.

What was most meaningful to you during your ceremony? How did you feel sharing your vows with each other?

Our vows were very similar to each other. To the point where we were surprised to hear how on point we were about our feelings.

What was your favorite part about wearing your dress on your wedding day? How did your dress make you feel?

The day before we got married I woke up with a sinus infection. I was very sick and was cold. The dress made me feel warm and comfortable without sacrificing an aesthetic.

Let's show your wedding venue some love! What is the name of your venue, and why did you choose it for your special day?

We had a mini-moon week staying at the Montecito Inn!

Tell us about the music! Was there live music, a DJ, or simply the sounds of the ocean or birds? Is there a song that you included in your wedding that means a lot to your relationship?

We went to dinner at Tre Lune in Lance’s suit and my Heila dress. People had congratulated us and shook Lances hand. The waitress took our photo, we got to eat, and drink a bottle of wine and just enjoy our company. A little girl came up to our table and asked us “did you get married?” It was a very touching moment. Back at our hotel - Lance had asked if we could slow dance together and he played whatever song was next on his phone. “Doris” by Leon Bridges. Not sure what that song was about but it was a vibe.

What was your favorite moment of the day?

We did a first look and Lance was brought to tears. It was a sweet moment that we exchanged.

Who was involved in your special day? We would love to shout out your photographer, favorite vendors, and anyone else who made your day magical.

My photographer who I found based on #santabarbaraphotographers on Instagram. Sarah Vendramini is amazing! La Rouge hair and makeup. Rachel, the owner did my hair and makeup. My bouquet and Lance’s boutonnière was made by Alejandra Caballero, a long-time friend of mine: Dreams if Florals & Co Our mini gluten free carrot cake by Little Lulus. A friend I’ve known since elementary school, Natalia Bagai.

Do you have any advice or helpful tips for others planning a wedding?

Elope! I was sick the day before and had gone 2+ years without a cold. You never know what’s going to happen upon the big day. I couldn’t imagine having to perform in front of 250+ people at a venue. Do what makes you happy!

What has been the best part so far about being married?

Laughably, it feels like nothing has really changed. We feel like we have been married for so long already. Mainly because we’ve always put each other first. Now we get to call each other “husband” or “wife”. That part is fun.

Looking ahead, what does the future hold that you can’t wait to experience as a married couple?

We already have the dog. The house. And now we will see if we bring children into the world. But just like our wedding, no pressure.

Heather is wearing The Heila with natural lining and a 10 in sweep train.