Real Weddings:

Lauren and Andrew’s wedding in San Juan Capistrano

featuring Kristina Adams Photography

Lauren and Andrew tied the knot at The Villa San Juan Capistrano, a enchanting venue filled with historic charm. The garden ceremony and reception are stunning and the quiet palette of the rose-centric florals by Floral Occasions establishes a romantic vibe. We love the the lace details and pastel colors in the invitation by Smitten on Paper, sweet The Mrs. Box, and a variety of champagne bridesmaids dresses. Lucky for us, Kristina Adams Photography was on hand to capture all the gorgeous details in these stunning film photographs.

What made the wedding special and unique?

Andrew and I were married at The Villa in San Juan Capistrano, CA, on August 6th, 2016. The venue was visually beyond our wildest dreams especially because it reminded us of where we got engaged in Europe the previous year. We were immediately drawn to the Villa’s romantic charm and intimate secret garden setting. Although our year of planning was memorable and special, it also had its stressful situations; every question, every wedding dedicated weekend that we hibernated, every decision made, every penny spent was absolutely earned!

I believe it was a combination of the location and attendees that made 8/6/16 a day we’ll never forget. Our family and friends traveled from coast to coast to witness our lifelong promise and love for one another. Having grown up in Orange County, it was extremely momentous to me to be back in such a special place I once called home. Andrew and I truly felt that the entire day exuded love from every family member, friend and vendor. Our most treasured moment of the day started with our first look at the Mission San Juan Capistrano – a two hundred year old monument whose Spanish ruins and gardens are incredibly enchanting. Andrew and I both remember feeling extremely anxious to finally lay eyes on one another. We were so happy to have had a moment just to ourselves and to love on one another before the anticipated bustle the rest of the day ensured. I’ll forever remind myself the overwhelming sense of emotion, pride and excitement I felt after tapping Andrew on the shoulder in the courtyard overlooking the mission bells.

Tell us about the gown and where/how you found it!

I found my wedding dress at Blue Bridal, an inviting boutique in downtown Denver. My mom, sister and close friend/bridesmaid not only made me feel like a princess but truly made the trying on process a memorable one. Ironically, I found “the one” within weeks of being newly engaged and was surprised to say yes to the dress after only visiting two other bridal shops in the city. My Casablanca gown was strapless, form fitting and had just the right amount of sparkle and lace. It was important to me that I didn’t feel like I was playing dress up but truly wanted to feel like a beautiful bride. The moment my sister zipped up my dress, I felt an overwhelming sense of emotion and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.

What were some touches added to make the wedding personal?

Our wedding was abundant with significant touches that Andrew and I dreamed up. Upon guests entering, they signed a custom painted guestbook globe that read, “I’ll love you to the ends of the Earth.” Signature drinks included a “His” and “Her” cocktail; Monte Carlo for the groom and Platino Fresco for the bride. Most of the decor and accents were custom with calligraphy including signage, place cards, table numbers and a watercolor bar menu. A close family friend of the Seaber family officiated the ceremony and paid special tribute to both sets of parents who were celebrating 31 years of marriage that month (August). I chose to honor my mom by having my florist wrap a small piece of lace from her wedding dress around my blush bouquet. Furthermore, in memory of my childhood best friend who had passed away and gone too soon, looped her most precious Tiffany & Co. ring around the lace at the base of my flowers. One of my favorite childhood memories was brought to life that day when my two uncles and cousin agreed to playing the acoustic guitar as our guests arrived to the Villa. I vividly remember hearing them start to play from inside the venue as I put on my finishing touches. I’ll forever be extremely touched and honored to have had them play on such a momentous day.

What was the most memorable part of the day?

By far, the most memorable part of the day was when we exchanged vows and said our “I do’s”. It was as if Andrew and I were the only ones in the room expressing every intimate and heartfelt feeling towards one another. If you know Andrew, you know that he sometimes is a man of few words. It was that moment in time, I felt as if he was handing me the world. Our vows were truly the best gift and the words spoken that day for all to hear are a true testament to our relationship and future as Mr. and Mrs. Johnson.

Tell us how you met and became engaged.

Our story began Sophomore year at the University of Colorado – Boulder. Andrew and I were both members of the Greek system and first caught each other’s eye at the CU vs. West Virginia football game in October of 2008. We ended up meeting through mutual friends and dated for the remainder of college. Some of our favorite memories came out of our four years as Buffs. Fast forward seven years when Andrew asked me to marry him on July 2nd, 2015 in Monaco! We were traveling through Europe “just us two” before we met up with my family in Tuscany, Italy. Andrew proposed at the top of the cliffs overlooking the marina and Palace of Monaco. I was truly on top of the world and we were over the moon excited to share the big news with family and friends.