How did the two of you meet?
We met through mutual friends.
How long have you been together?
Since December 2008, which equals about 8.5 years at this point!
Give us the proposal details! When? Where? How?
We decided to go to San Diego in September and stay at the Ocean Beach Hotel. I had always wanted to stay there because of its proximity to the beach and water. On September 19 (our first date was on December 19), we were sitting on the lanai watching the sun slowly reach the ocean and I went into the room to grab something. When I went back out, Zach got down on one knee. At that moment, everything was a blur. I heard him ask me to marry him and without hesitation I said “yes!” It was perfection because it was the two of us, as the sun set in one of our favorite places.
Portraits by Diana
What has been your favorite experience planning the wedding?
Well, truthfully, the cake tasting!
How do you stay sane under the pressures of wedding planning?
First, I have a notebook to keep things organized. I thought it was silly at first when my mom insisted on purchasing one for me but now, I cannot imagine doing without it! Second, I think about the last 8 years with Zach and how they have felt like only a few. That is when I remember why we are having a wedding, to celebrate our relationship with family and friends. That brings me back to reality. Finally, the event coordinator at Hotel Congress, Melissa, is amazing!
Portraits by Diana
What is your favorite part of using Joy for your wedding?
The layout and simplicity. It has what you need, and it’s all at one glance for our guests!
What piece of advice would you give couples to ensure that they use Joy to its fullest potential?
Use the schedule and RSVP features. I love that I can organize all of the details of the day and have our guests RSVP on one site.
Portraits by Diana
At Joy we believe that even though a wedding lasts a day, joy lasts forever. What does that mean to you?
It means capturing the love of our wedding day between Zach and I, and from our family and friends. We want a day that we can look back on, and say “we did it true to our style, and had a blast!”
