Karen Wearing The Nevaeh Dress

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

We met through a mutual friend back in high school and have been together ever since. It will be 13 years in August that we have been together!

When did you know they were the one?

We were so young when we met (I was only 16), but it felt like things would last forever. We have had many ups and downs over the past decade, but we were lucky to grow together and continue to thrive in our relationship.

Tell us the story of the proposal!

We bought a new house recently and had done some renovations, one being installing a patio in our backyard. We were sitting outside one evening and it was a perfect night. The weather was great and we were watching the sun set over the lake behind our house with our three dogs. Jake proposed right there and then - the perfect ending to a perfect evening. He later said that it just felt right in that moment and I completely agree.

How long was your engagement? What went into deciding your wedding's date and location?

Our engagement was pretty short! We got engaged in September 2020 and then married in March of 2021. We didn't want to wait too long and we never wanted a big wedding. It was easier to plan quickly and we picked a gorgeous local state park. We aren't very traditional when it comes to weddings and we did things our way. We wouldn't have changed a single thing.

How would you describe your personal style? What was most important to you when you were planning your bridal look?

I have a pretty relaxed style. I wanted a gorgeous dress, but I also wanted to be comfortable and have it feel like me.

How did you find Wear Your Love?

Randomly online!

When did you know you had found your perfect dress?

When I saw the Nevaeh dress I knew this was the one.

Which dress did you choose, and did you request any custom aspects

Nevaeh dress - no custom aspects.

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?

I was so excited! It was definitely an emotional experience.

Did your wedding have a theme or style?

Not really - just a relaxed and comfortable vibe surrounded by nature.

How involved was your partner in the wedding planning? Did your families help? Did you hire a coordinator, planner, or event stylist?

My husband helped a little bit, but I did most of the planning along with the help of my parents.

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?

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. We chose this venue because it is absolutely gorgeous.

Tell us about your wedding playlist! What song did you walk down the aisle to? Did you have a first dance song that was meaningful to you?

We didn't do music or dances. Our ceremony had 9 people total and lasted around 5 minutes!

What was your favorite moment of the day?

My favorite moment was just saying "I do" - my dad was also our officiant which made everything feel very special.

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.

Photographer: Celeste Burns, @celesteburnsphotography
Hair & Makeup: @solbeautifulms

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

I would say to make sure you do your wedding your way. You don't have to do things the "traditional" way or do what everyone else does, make your wedding day unique to the love you share with your partner.

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

Being able to finally say we are officially husband and wife!

Karen is wearing The Nevaeh with nude lining and a full 28 inch train.