Planning a wedding from afar is never an easy feat, but Lia and Dan’s Denver wedding turned out beautifully with the help of a fabulous vendor team and their family! Drawing inspiration from the regal cathedral they were married in and Dan’s military background, the couple’s wedding was filled with elegance and romance, tones of marsala and blush, and a hint of whimsy. Lia paid special attention to each element of the wedding, making sure that all of their selections told their story in some way- we LOVE that! Everything was captured perfectly by Sara Lynn, Fine Art Photographer, and we are so honored to have Lia here today with sharing more about her wedding planning experience and the day as a whole.

What (or who) helped you most in your planning process and/or on your wedding day?

I feel so fortunate, as I had a great deal of help while planning our wedding. Living over 1,000 miles away from our wedding site throughout the planning process (due to my husband’s military orders), made it impossible to be at every appointment, meet every vendor and ensure each detail was in place. My mom truly was a key factor in the entire process, and stepped in every moment I could not. She worked with me from day one and ensured everything I envisioned came to life. She spent endless nights on small and behind the scenes details, just to ensure everything was perfect, I truly could not of done it without her! Another huge help was Gina Mayfelt (owner and founder of Organically You Events), my wedding planner/coordinator. The first time I met with Gina over coffee, I knew she had to be a part of the wedding. She immediately exceeded my expectations and I was amazed by how only after a hour she nailed my vision. Her energy, organization, punctuality, and ability to put me at ease was amazing. She was the perfect combination of easy-going and in charge. She went above and beyond to ensure I had the day of my dreams. Her creativity never went unnoticed, I can honestly not give her enough praise.

What was the most important thing to you when deciding who to work with for your wedding?

When picking out vendors, and all those who I was going to work with for the wedding, I wanted to make sure we “clicked” on a personal level. My goal was to hire people I would want to hang out with on a everyday basis and would call my friends. I figured if they knew me well, and understood me on a personal level, they would be perfect in helping make my wedding dreams into a reality. I was picky with my choices and met with a whole bunch of different people, but in the end truly can say I put together the perfect team.

What was your inspiration for your wedding details and/or design?

My first inspiration for the wedding was the Catholic Church. The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, is the church I have dreamed about getting married in ever since I was a little girl. Growing up we went to several masses and other important celebratory events there (which is when I first started falling in love with its beauty). Then, in high school I received my confirmation there at the church – which only reaffirmed my desire for it to be the place I marry the man of my dreams.

My second piece of inspiration was the time of year we got married, as our wedding date was late October. I was inspired by the non-traditional Fall colors and chose Marsala for the center of my color wheel. I kept with the theme of the deeper tones for all the decor, flowers, as well as bridesmaids dresses, with a few pops of blush for contrast. I planned with my florist for all my bouquets and floral center pieces to keep a more natural and organic shape, rather than round and perfect. I even chose two different looks for my wedding dress. For the ceremony, which I went more traditional and classic, with a lace bolero and long veil with a blusher (to keep with the strong traditions of marrying in the Catholic church). And for my reception look, went more fun and relaxed, wearing a flower crown and diamond belt. I loved the idea of changing things up and keeping the guests surprised.

Our third piece of inspiration was the United States Marine Corps. My now husband with over 11 years of active duty and his strong devotion to our country, we knew it had to be part of our day. He chose to wear his uniform and asked a few of his fellow Marines to do the same. It is because of the Marine Corps we met many years ago, so we both felt it deserved a special part in our day of becoming Mr & Mrs.

What was your favorite thing about your wedding?

My favorite thing about my wedding was truly celebrating my husband and I’s love for one another with our family and best friends. We had people fly from all corners of the United States to celebrate with us and that alone made the day so memorable and special.

What is your best piece of advice for other brides?

Enjoy the process. It truly passes you by so quickly, and before you know it, it’s all over. We all are guilty of getting caught up in the stress of coordinating every small detail, making sure everything is perfect we forget to enjoy the small moments. Take a step back, smile and relish every moment.

Vendors who made it all happen…

Photographer:  Sara Lynn, Fine Art Photographer // Event Planner: Organically You Events // Floral Designer: Bella Lu Floral // Ceremony Location: Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception // Reception Venue: Coohills // Linens and Coverings: La Tavola Fine Linen // DJ: MDH Entertainment // Cinema and Video: One Billion Stories // Invitation Designer: Sweet Zion Paperie // Apparel: The Bridal Collection // Dress Designer: Essence of Australia // Makeup Artist: Allison Beach // Hair Stylist: Maryss AG Makeup // Pre Ceremony Location: Westin Denver