The majority of Samantha and Elise’s first year together was spent trying new and different foods. They did it so often and enjoyed it so much that they lovingly refer to that time as their “amazing food adventure.” Elise even made Samantha a photo album called, A Year of Magical Dining: Our First Year in Food. As a last-minute getaway, Elise planned a trip to Big Sur, and the couple went “glamping” near a river. During their stay, Samantha and Elise hiked up to a vista that overlooked the Pacific Ocean. When they reached the top, Elise pulled a ring out of her backpack and proposed.

While Samantha and Elise were planning their big day, a few factors were important to them. The California couple wanted an intimate, destination wedding; they wanted all of their
guests to feel relaxed, like they were
 on vacation, but still attending a great party. The flow of the day was important to them, as they wanted everything to run organically. “And, of course, the food had to be amazing,” says Elise.

BACKYARD BLISS

LOCATION: The wedding
 took place at Samantha’s family’s home in Kittery, which is on the water and surrounded by an abundance of trees, foliage, and grass. Elise had never been so far north, but Samantha spent her summers in New England. One fall before the wedding, Samantha brought Elise to the house and she instantly fell in love. Since some guests were traveling from Scotland and others from California, Kittery was the perfect halfway destination point.

FIRST LOOK: “Our first look was a standout moment,” says Samantha. She waited for Elise on a dock near the house where they got ready. They hadn’t seen each other’s dresses until that moment, and Elise “looked so incredibly beautiful.”

MUSIC: Samantha’s best friend, Kirsten Guenther, is a musical theater writer. As a gift, Kirsten wrote a personalized song for the couple. Another close friend, Broadway actress Lauren Blackman, performed the song at the reception.

Catering:
Dandelion Catering

Day-of Coordinator:
Heidi Brisette
She Luxe Weddings

Flowers:
F as in Flowers

Gowns:
Willowby by Waters
The Wedding Party

Lillian West
Paris Connection

Hair & Makeup:
Making Faces Weddings

Lighting & Music:
C-Zone Entertainment

Photographer:
Alex + Betty

Planner:
She Luxe Weddings

Rentals:
Exeter Events & Tents

Stationery:
Anticipate Invitations

Videographer:
Lauren Martin
[email protected]