Wedding

A Tale of Two Artists’ Gates of Heaven Celebration

August 22, 2023

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Gabi and Brad’s love story is one of those heartwarming tales that reaffirms the power of connection and serendipity.

I actually first met Gabi and Brad a few years ago when they so generously agreed to model for one of the my first styled shoots I did with Lily Forest Designs (the same Lily who played a major role in their love) where I specifically remember talking to them about potentially being their wedding planner!

And so, a few months later, they booked me and we got to work on planning their real wedding. 🙂

The Couple

Their bond was forged not only through shared experiences but also in their love for exploration and simple pleasures. Roaming through city neighborhoods, discovering vintage shops, and enjoying their favorite pastimes like watching movies and taking long drives, they are beautiful companions and shared adventures in the big and in the small.

Gabi and Brad’s narrative took root during their school years, where they crossed paths and shared mutual friends. Although friendly, it wasn’t until a friend’s birthday celebration a couple of years after graduating that their connection deepened.

The Proposal

Brad, with the assistance of their dear friends Lily and Tony, crafted a proposal that was a true reflection of their journey together. Brad’s affinity for wind turbines, a fascination that Gabi came to appreciate through him, became the backdrop for a dreamy setup that was nothing short of magical.

An idyllic day of swimming and hiking culminated in an unexpected proposal under the mesmerizing wind turbines. With a cloudless blue sky, a gentle breeze, and hearts full of joy, they said yes to their shared future.

Their Vision

As artists with a penchant for quality and detail, Gabi and Brad envisioned a wedding that would be an embodiment of their individualities and shared dreams. Their vision encompassed curated artworks, vintage silver accents, flowers, and cocktails that would infuse color and character into their celebration.

Music held a special place in their hearts, and they strived to make every beat resonate with their love story. Their desire for the day was simple: an intimate gathering cherished for its thoughtful touches and meaningful moments.

The Day Before

Surrounded by so much love, it was so remarkable to see the special touches and the people in their lives who were willing to do so much for them. The night before their wedding, Gabi and Brad invited all their friends to James Madison Park for a picnic catered by her very own aunt.

Friends and family were the ceremony musicians, the light installers, the cake bakers, and they did it all out of an outpour of love and respect for both Brad and Gabi, which I think is a testament to the people they are.

The Wedding Day

Their wedding day was a harmonious blend of traditions, artistry, and love.

The ceremony was held at Gates of Heaven at James Madison Park with their friends playing guitar and harp as they read intimate poems to one another as vows.

Cocktail hour and reception to follow at Goodman Community Center. Fluttering above the dance floor was an installation of paper butterflies, handcrafted by Brad himself, a poignant reflection of their artistic spirits.

Gabi’s veil delicately featured butterfly detailing, symbolizing their journey’s transformation and growth. Poetry-filled vows and live music serenaded their love, making every moment ethereal and honestly being there felt too good to be true. They are such an amazing couple, so enamored with each other and so beautiful in how they express it to one another.

DJ and live band performances ensured the dance floor was alive with energy, with a DJ (Venezeluan music) and Hollyy, their live band. And in case you didn’t think this fairytale could get any better, I learned that their first date was a Hollyy show where they fell in love! So of course, we had to ask them to play, and they did not disappoint!

To top it all off, Gabi’s sister opened the dance floor with a flamenco performance and their guests danced the entire night away – nonstop!

Approaching their one-year anniversary, the memory of Gabi and Brad’s wedding day remains as vivid as ever. Gabi and Brad’s wedding was a true reflection of their souls, their story, and the love that binds them. From handcrafted details to poetic vows, each element was an intimate brushstroke on the canvas of their journey.

It’s evident that their love story is one for the ages, a tale of two kindred spirits coming together creating a symphony of love, art, and devotion.

Gabi and Brad’s wedding was a true reflection of their souls, their story, and the love that binds them. From handcrafted details to poetic vows, each element was an intimate brushstroke on the canvas of their journey. It’s evident that their love story is one for the ages, a tale of two kindred spirits coming together under the spell of wind turbines and creating a symphony of love, art, and devotion.

Vendor Team

Coordination: Olive Branch Events Co.

Photography: Kamaren Joelle Photography

Floral: Lily Forest Designs

Ceremony Venue: Gates of Heaven

Reception Venue: Goodman Community Center

Live Band: Hollyy Band

Hair and Makeup: Noor Beauty Studio

Rentals: Velvet Rentals