The happy couple first met back in 2016 when they were both working on a research project that their undergraduate colleges were collaborating on. The project was about detecting and creating 3D models of underwater archaeological wrecks in Malta, a Mediterranean island country. They were able to travel to Malta and live there for a month to work on the project. During the trip, they got to know each other well and after that unforgettable summer, we began dating long-distance.
On May 23rd, 2021, they visited Montaña de Oro, one of their favorite beaches in San Luis Obispo, California. With a little fancy phrasing, S said he had made a dinner reservation immediately afterwards at one of the first restaurants that they went to on a date, and so he suggested that they dress up in fancy clothes, go to the beach, and then go straight to the restaurant. Little did Z know that he was about to pop the question! When he finally found a good spot, he got down on one knee and pulled out the ring in a beautiful box that he had crafted himself! Before he had even finished asking, Z had already said yes.
Not many wedding days take as many twists and turns as their wedding did. The week of their wedding was filled with phone calls and re-planning most of their wedding day to accommodate for Covid. While there was a heaviness and sense of loss for how their beautiful, sunny July wedding day was "supposed" to go, their story still continued on in an extraordinarily beautiful way.
Z prepared for the day at her childhood home and did a first look with her dad in the backyard. She also received blessings from family and friends.
Following portraits at her home, Z and her closest family headed to St. Thomas of Canterbury Church, the original location for their ceremony. Z still got her walking down the aisle moment as planned and her family was able to provide her with support and love amid all of the changes.
Meanwhile, the S was getting ready for their first look at his home. Their first look happened in the backyard, tucked in a beautifully sunlit corner. Both S & Z seemed to immediately feel relief and calm in each other's presence - exactly the feelings you want on your wedding day.
After their first look and portraits, the guys joined in for photos! They all looked dapper as the sun warmed the backyard with each passing moment.
While their ceremony did not happen at the church they planned, they were welcomed to Santa Teresa Catholic Church's garden. On a beautiful, warm Thursday afternoon, S & Z showed their friends and family that their desire to get married was this important to them, regardless of their circumstances. The ceremony was beautiful - filled with a radiating happiness from all that attended.
Once the ceremony came to a close, S & Z shared words of thanks and gratefulness of their guests while both of their parents joined in with their appreciation.
Vendors:
Photography/Videography: Trevor & Elisebeth
Hair/Makeup Artist: Makeup by Amy
Dress: Azazie
Ceremony Venue: St. Teresa Catholic Church
