Inn at Rancho Santa Fe
November 15, 2008

The Connect: Michelle and Rich were neighbors when Rich’s dog chased Michelle’s cat up a tree. Then tragedy struck when both of them lost their houses in the Cedar Fire. They once again live on that same street but this time in the same house.

The Proposal: For about a year, they enjoyed working on blending his nearly grown sons and her daughter. They got engaged on a trip to Scottsdale, Arizona. Rich smuggled her ring through security and thankfully they caught on and didn’t blow his cover. Michelle was completely surprised and excited to accept his proposal.

The Celebration: As guests arrived at the picturesque Maderas Golf Club, the staff greeted their nearly 150 guests with Mojitos and Cosmos to enjoy during the ceremony. They enjoyed a romantic and touching ceremony which included their four children as attendants standing next to them as they took their vows. The highlight of their wedding was a special sand ceremony where each of the kids, as well as the couple, brought sand from a special place. Some came from Cancun, Hawaii, Del Mar, and the couple chose sand from the beach at Tower 23 in Pacific Beach, where they had exchanged their first kiss. For the reception, they chose deep sunset colors and lots of candlelight with room for lounging. In working to keep their wedding unique and authentic, they had “His” and “Hers” food stations with fun favorites of the bride and groom. Everyone is still talking about their food a year later. It was a perfect way to start a new life together.

Michelle’s Advice: “Keep it authentic and celebrate that which is unique to both of you.”


INGREDIENTS:

Venue - Maderas Golf Club

Officiant - Ken & Pam Ingold

Photographer - Sara France Photography

Gown - Bridal & Veil

Men's Formalwear - Joseph Abboud

Florist & Linens - Bridges Destination Management

Entertainment - Party Quake

Coffee Catering - Joe’s on the Nose

Cake - Twiggs Bakery

Invitations - TruSo

Hair & Make-Up - Mikal Colanes