Inspired by their hopes of traveling the world together, a travel-themed wedding was the perfect fit for Melody and Christian’s nuptials. Adding in a bit of vintage style with utter romance completed the look, and lucky for us, Melissa Biador was there to capture everything! Melody was kind enough to share some of her wedding insights with us today…
What (or who) helped you most in your planning process and/or on your wedding day?
There were so many people who helped me during the planning process, especially since I was planning out of state the entire time (in Hawaii). I would have to say that what helped me the most during planning was having a supportive “team” behind me the entire way. This team includes my MOH, my bridesmaids, my family, and my wedding planner Bre from Joyful Weddings & Events. I had to rely a lot on phone calls and emails but luckily, Bre was more than willing to work with me (even with a 3 hour time difference). It really helped that she shared my same vision, and I always felt like I was ultimately the one behind the wheel. She made calls, visited places, and made sure that everything was taken care of. On my wedding day, I didn’t have to worry about a thing and I felt comfortable trusting her from the very beginning.
What was the most important thing to you when deciding who to work with for your wedding?
The most important thing to me when deciding who to work with was whether or not they were able to recognize and share in my vision for the wedding. I had very distinct ideas for my wedding and wanted vendors who not only fit my style, but who were also willing to work with me and my long-distance situation. They also needed to be on board with my budget and up to par with my expectations as far as consistent communication and attention to detail.
What was your inspiration for your wedding details and/or design?
My now husband, Christian, is in the military (United States Army), and we loved the idea of getting to travel the world. (Our first duty station right now is Hawaii!) I wanted to tie this theme into my love for all things vintage and romantic. Pinterest made it so easy to borrow little details here and there, and make them my own. Thus, our theme of “vintage travel” became the inspiration for our wedding. Down to our paper airplane ceremony backdrop, our vintage globe guestbook, and our French imported honey favors, I really wanted our theme to shine through and reflect our mutual love of travel and adventures.
What was your favorite thing about your wedding?
My favorite thing about my wedding was when Christian and I recited our vows. Our officiant, referred by Bre, was very open to the type of ceremony we wanted. He let us decide exactly what we wanted to include. When it came to our vows, Christian and I had each written our own and the ceremony was the first time we both heard what each other had written. When I realized we had written very similar things, and made the same promises to each other, it really solidified the fact that we were meant to be! We both ended up crying, along with a majority of our guests!
What is your best piece of advice for other brides?
The best piece of advice I have for other brides is that it’s important to realize, that when all is said and done, it’s your day. Celebrate it the way you want. With who you want, and how ever you want. I remember trying to please so many different people and worrying about all the tiny details being perfect. My ever-so wise wedding planner reminded me that at the end of the day, the only thing that matters is remembering to enjoy all of the amazing moments that happen, as they come.
From a paper airplane ceremony backdrop and a vintage globe guestbook, to imported honey favors from France, everything about Melody and Christian’s wedding reflected their love for traveling perfectly!
I’d love to hear if any of you are inspired by something like travel for your own wedding! It can be anything that you and your fiance love to do- leave a comment below and share what your mutual love is, is even if you’re not using it as a wedding theme!
Vendors who made it all happen…
Photographer: Melissa Biador Photography / Assistant Photographer: Jeff Cruz / Wedding Planner/Coordinator: Joyful Weddings & Events / Getting Ready Location: Hilton Gaslamp, San Diego / Reception Venue: Japanese Friendship Garden / Catering: Ranch Catering / Ceremony Officiant: Reverend Clint Hufft / Vintage Rentals: Forever Vintage Rentals / Flowers & Decor: Olivia Nelson of Forever Vintage Rentals / Hair & Makeup: Mary Ann Madarang, Kristen-lyn Calimquim, Loverly DeGuzman / Bride’s Dress: Watters “Bristol” gown / Bride’s Veil/Hair Accessories: Lucy Bridal Boutique / Bride’s Shoes: Ivanka Trump “Hara” / Groom’s Attire: Vera Wang
Photographer: Melissa Biador Photography / Assistant Photographer: Jeff Cruz / Wedding Planner/Coordinator: Joyful Weddings & Events / Getting Ready Location: Hilton Gaslamp, San Diego / Reception Venue: Japanese Friendship Garden / Catering: Ranch Catering / Ceremony Officiant: Reverend Clint Hufft / Vintage Rentals: Forever Vintage Rentals / Flowers & Decor: Olivia Nelson of Forever Vintage Rentals / Hair & Makeup: Mary Ann Madarang, Kristen-lyn Calimquim, Loverly DeGuzman / Bride’s Dress: Watters “Bristol” gown / Bride’s Veil/Hair Accessories: Lucy Bridal Boutique / Bride’s Shoes: Ivanka Trump “Hara” / Groom’s Attire: Vera Wang