This bride’s mantra? “there are no rules.” She’s so right!

Feeling a bit bored waiting for her friends at the bar, Katie noticed a handsome guy sitting next to her and decided to introduce herself. The stranger was Justin. After sharing a drink, they quickly realized that, although they had never formally met, they had likely crossed paths many times at their respective universities. This “overlapping” continued to be a source of constant discovery between Katie and Justin, as if the universe knew they were ready to pursue a relationship. Katie admits, “I was famously one of those girlfriends who gave him a hard time about how long it took him to propose.” After nearly seven years together, during a two-week camping trip through Alaska, Justin proposed. The couple had rented a camper and was touring and hiking through the southern Kenai Peninsula up to Denali when Justin told Katie he had booked a “surprise” experience. The surprise turned out to be a highland cow encounter in the farmlands. Amid the picturesque scenery and a rainstorm, the couple sought shelter in a greenhouse with the generous farmer who had been guiding them through the experience. There, Justin got down on one knee. Both Katie and the farmer were taken by surprise, with the farmer delighting in the moment and saying, “I’m a proposal destination now!”

Katie and Justin wanted their wedding day to feel familiar, incorporating elements of nature that reflected their relationship. They chose the Willowdale Estate, which spoke for itself in terms of style, knowing they wouldn’t need to create extravagant decor. Katie’s catchphrase, "There are no rules," which she often used both at work and in her personal life, helped guide the couple through the overwhelming moments of decision-making as a reminder to focus on joy and not anyone else’s expectations. They utilized decor from their own home and thrifted items, blending these personal touches with pieces from the estate and fall-hued florals by Fern & Fable. "Justin and I have always been the happiest outdoors," shared Katie, noting the significance of their serene outdoor ceremony.

She purchased her gown second-hand, knowing the moment she tried it on that it was “the one.” She paired her dress with a veil embroidered in florals, which inspired their jewel-toned color story.

They were joined by their dog, Sampson, who was present throughout the day—from the morning preparations to the cake cutting, resting at their feet as they shared their first moments as newlyweds.