The bride and groom, both hailing from families rich in farming heritage, met in their dairy science class in college and the rest is history! The talented team at Engaged & Inspired helped Courtney and Matt honor their love of the earth and farming with personal touches like a “milk toast” and an incredibly gorgeous reception at Holman Ranch. We’re obsessed with the florals by Gavita Flora bright pink bougainvilleas, coral peonies, huge protea and orange kumquats. Check out all the lush details in these images from Kara Miller Photography.
What made the wedding special and unique?
Courtney and Matt’s romantic celebration in Carmel was absolutely breathtaking in every way! Their ceremony took place at the picturesque Carmel Mission Basilica, and afterward they celebrated the night away at Holman Ranch in Carmel Valley. Courtney and Matt’s wedding was full of fun surprises – like a marching live brass band that led the bridal party into the reception! They also incorporated a lot of personal touches throughout the wedding that honored their families’ rich histories rooted in love for the earth and farming. I also loved all of the pops of vibrant color throughout the day. Some of my favorite details included the gorgeous emerald green bridesmaids dresses and the spectacular florals by Gavita Flora with bright pink bougainvilleas, coral peonies and orange kumquats.
Tell us about the gown and where/how you found it!
Courtney custom-designed her dress with the help of Mia Bella Couture to include a dramatic backless shape. Apparently, the designer loved the customizations so much that they will be offering the gown, named after Courtney, in her next collection!
What were some touches added to make it personal?
Both Courtney and Matt’s families have a rich heritage in dairy farming. As a tribute to their families and their roots, they had a “milk toast” after all of the speeches were given at the reception. Toasting flutes filled with milk were passed around to all the guests, and an enthusiastic “Cheers!” was shared by all. Courtney also changed into her cowboy boots for the reception to dance the night away with a live band inside the barn.
What was the most memorable part of the day?
One of my favorite parts of the day was right after Courtney and Matt were announced as husband and wife at the ceremony. After they were introduced, Matt put on his new custom made cowboy hat (a gift from Courtney given to him earlier that morning), and he beamed from ear to ear as they walked out of the church. It was a great way to incorporate their fun-loving personalities into the ceremony!
Tell us how they met and became engaged.
Courtney and Matt met in a dairy science class in college, and from the very beginning they knew they were meant for each other. Matt proposed to Courtney on a trip to Italy, where Matt joined Courtney to extend her business trip into a romantic vacation. The proposal came as a complete surprise to Courtney, as he popped the question right in the middle of a tour!
Photography: Kara Miller Photography // Event Planning: Engaged & Inspired // Floral Design: Gavita Flora // Videography: Epic Studios // Linens: Classic Party Rentals // Cork Stopper Favors: Amorim // Biscotti Favors: The Chocolate Cow // Invitations: Ink & Iron // Bridesmaids’ Dresses: BCBG Maxazria // Shoes: Badgley Mischka // Wedding Dress: Mia Bella Couture // Reception Band: The Zippers // Brass Band: Brass Monkey Brass Band // Cake: Paris Bakery