Tony and Melissa, thank you so much for asking me to be a part of this day! I’ve absolutely loved getting to know you, and am not at all surprised at the personal details and fun-loving vibe you were able to incorporate into your day. Enjoy a few of my favorites! —js
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Melissa Says: There were so many memorable moments from the day, but the most memorable moment was probably our first look. The day had started very calm and fun with my girls as we got ready, but as we reached the venue (and the clouds were closing in) I began to get nervous! Seeing him for the first time that day without anyone else around was so exciting and oddly calming (and one of the only moments we shared alone that entire day). Even as the rain started coming down, all my cares went away and everything from that point felt perfect. We had written letters to each other that morning and exchanged them at that time and reading his letter to me I couldn’t hold back the tears, it was so sweet and meaningful, and something we can keep forever to remember just how we felt about one another on that day.
Tony Says: When Melissa tapped me on the shoulder wearing the most beautiful dress I could ever imagine, that was probably the most memorable moment. She looked so beautiful I teared up.
Jessica’s take: Although the wedding day was full of wonderful moments, my favorite moment happened before the wedding day even arrived. I met Melissa for coffee to catch up and to chat last minute logistics a few days prior to the big day. I asked her what she was most excited about, and she told me simply, through the sweetest tears, “To be married to Tony. I’ve been in love with him for so long, and I can’t believe it’s finally here.” I couldn’t get that out of my mind as I spent the day with them, and it reminded me of just how lucky I am to be a part of people’s stories.
Melissa Says: Because I was a DIY bride, all of the details were so special, but my dress had to be my favorite! I’ve never felt the way I felt that day wearing that dress! It had the most beautiful beading and just the right amount of sparkle! I could have lived in that dress! I also loved the wedding photos of our loved ones. It was a tribute to the successful marriages we hope to emulate and had couples from both Tony’s mom and dad’s side and my mom and dad’s side and it is just neat to think of families coming together as one through marriage.
Tony Says: There were so many cool details… the live band, pig roast, balloon drop, the bar Melissa’s uncle built us… all of it came together and we were so glad everyone had a good time!
Jessica’s Take: I loved Melissa’s bouquet, as well as the planted herbs at the reception. They were sweet and simple—and smelled good! And, I love a dog in a bow tie. Louie looked so dapper!
Melissa Says: My advice for couples planning their wedding would be to have fun with it, not everything will go as planned, but you truly don’t mind because at the end of the day, you’re married, and that’s what counts. I would also say get as much done beforehand because there’s a lot you can’t do until last minute, and you want to be able to enjoy that time with your husband or wife-to-be and friends and family arriving!
Tony Says: If she says “Do you want to hire this out?” say “YES!” The less you have to do, the better. That way you can be in the moment and enjoy this time with your loved ones. Also, you are extremely exhausted afterwards so having someone designated to take care of the clean up is really helpful.
Melissa Says: Getting to say “my husband” has been fun, ha ha! But honestly just knowing Tony has my back no matter what is the best feeling. Planning our honeymoon, having married people conversations, and just every day little things feel different than before. I feel like I won the lottery and I could not be happier!
Tony Says: Knowing that I get to wake up next to Melissa for the rest of my life is definitely the best part about being married so far. And that we finally have our house back from wedding take-over!
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Beautiful! I saw on your instagram post that this wedding was at Wildbill Campground in Deadwood- we are looking for a destination wedding to Deadwood. . . would you be willing to share vendor info?
Hi! Yes, happy to share, though this couple’s family ran the campground at that time. Feel free to email if you have questions, and I’m happy to share what I can!