pinsandpetals March 15, 2024
pinsandpetals Imagine this: Karen and Ricki bump into each other at a bar in San Francisco while waiting for their trains to arrive. They talk, they laugh and they end up exchanging numbers. Sounds like something straight out of a movie, right? Well, that’s how their journey began. Fast forward through a pandemic full of ups and downs, and we finally got these two married! As their wedding planner, my job was to make their dream day happen, no matter what the world threw at us.
Karen + Ricki’s Dream Team:
Event Planning & Design: @eventsbypinsandpetals
Photography: @kate.marie.gardner
Florals: @handjflowers
Venue: @marinartandgarden
Rentals: @brighteventrentals
DJ: @amospro
Catering: @elainebellcatering
Signage: @_ellestrations
Hair & Makeup: @jamesanthonyhmu
Tenting: @joesquaredproductions
Here’s the scoop: Karen had never thought about dating a woman. Then, Ricki walked into her life in a bar, of all places. After a drink and a chat that felt like it could’ve gone on forever, Karen realized she couldn’t let Ricki walk out of her life. She ran after her, they swapped numbers, and the rest is history.
Their original plan? A small, historic building by the water. Thanks to the pandemic, we had to hit pause… twice. And then, we had to find a new venue altogether. We landed on the Marin Art and Garden Center, turning a complete 180 on our plans but ending up with something even better. From a fountain ceremony to garden cocktails to a cozy dinner under a tent, it was all outdoors and absolutely them.
Imagine sitting down to dinner like you’re at a big family gathering. That was the vibe for Karen and Ricki’s reception. Two long tables, everyone passing dishes around, chatting, and laughing. And in the middle of their vows? A surprise cameo by a dog who decided the fountain was his personal pool. It was a hilarious, unexpected moment that just added to the day’s joy.
If there’s one thing planning this wedding taught me, it’s that flexibility is key. The unexpected tenting for the reception didn’t just solve the chilly weather problem; it made the whole evening feel more intimate and special. It’s a good reminder that sometimes, the best moments come from the unplanned.
This celebration was a real testament to Karen and Ricki’s adventurous spirit, showing that love can thrive even when life throws curveballs. Dancing under the stars, surrounded by friends and family, they started their next chapter on a high note.
To Karen and Ricki: May your lives together be as full of love, laughter, and happy surprises as your wedding day. Here’s to finding love when you least expect it and making every moment count.
