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Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm Elopement – Erica and Chad

Does Pueblos Orchid Farm Elopement – Erica and Chad

Tell me about your relationship! How did you meet? Any great stories you want to share?

About 6 years ago Chad and Erica arrived at Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm for a 40th Birthday camping trip completely unaware of each other or that we had mutual friends! Erica asked her friends to do some recon on the handsome guy she didn’t recognize in the group, and simultaneously Chad was asking his crew about the girl setting up all her own camping gear solo. It wasn’t long before a mutual friend said, “Hey you two are asking around about one another, you should meet!” At that moment we sat in the sand on the beach and started talking for hours, and that’s how it all began!

Tell me about your relationship! How did you meet? Any great stories you want to share?

About 6 years ago Chad and Erica arrived at Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm for a 40th Birthday camping trip completely unaware of each other or that we had mutual friends! Erica asked her friends to do some recon on the handsome guy she didn’t recognize in the group, and simultaneously Chad was asking his crew about the girl setting up all her own camping gear solo. It wasn’t long before a mutual friend said, “Hey you two are asking around about one another, you should meet!” At that moment we sat in the sand on the beach and started talking for hours, and that’s how it all began!

Erica + Chad’s Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm Wedding!

Tell me about how you got engaged!

Chad lived in Maui for about 8 years prior our meeting and has always considered it a special and favorite place. He moved back to the mainland and found a girl with the maiden name “Mehallo”, pronounced “mahalo.” How serendipitous is that?! It was the second trip to Maui after about 3 years of dating. Chad took an unassuming Erica dressed in a ball cap and bathing suit cover up to the stunning cliff edge at Dragon’s teeth on The Northwest shore with and a huge but hidden labyrinth. Chad suggested we take a photo in front of the labyrinth, which should have been the first clue since Erica is usually the one begging for pics! We tried waiting for some folks to clear out for a clearer shot, only they were taking an eternity to make their exit from the labyrinth.

Chad, aka “Mr. Patience,” at this point was growing slightly annoyed and a bit flustered. It was Erica who suggested an alternative photo spot while we waited for the scenery to clear, still unassuming. We set up the shot together with the tripod, remote clicker, the whole deal. We took a silly photo, then in one swift motion, Chad grabbed Erica’s hand, suavely kicked off his flip flop and dropped down on one knee using his shoe for knee cushion. Turns out the labyrinth was the spot he would frequently visit when he lived on island. This was his meditative spot to clear his head and think about his future desires. Needless to say, she said yes to his proposal, with whales breaching in the background! A truly magical moment we’ll always remember! Oh, and we did eventually get our labyrinth pic too! 😉

Tell me how you got engaged!

Chad lived in Maui for about 8 years prior our meeting and has always considered it a special and favorite place. He moved back to the mainland and found a girl with the maiden name “Mehallo”, pronounced “mahalo.” How serendipitous is that?! It was the second trip to Maui after about 3 years of dating. Chad took an unassuming Erica dressed in a ball cap and bathing suit cover up to the stunning cliff edge at Dragon’s teeth on The Northwest shore with and a huge but hidden labyrinth. Chad suggested we take a photo in front of the labyrinth, which should have been the first clue since Erica is usually the one begging for pics! We tried waiting for some folks to clear out for a clearer shot, only they were taking an eternity to make their exit from the labyrinth.

Chad, aka “Mr. Patience,” at this point was growing slightly annoyed and a bit flustered. It was Erica who suggested an alternative photo spot while we waited for the scenery to clear, still unassuming. We set up the shot together with the tripod, remote clicker, the whole deal. We took a silly photo, then in one swift motion, Chad grabbed Erica’s hand, suavely kicked off his flip flop and dropped down on one knee using his shoe for knee cushion. Turns out the labyrinth was the spot he would frequently visit when he lived on island. This was his meditative spot to clear his head and think about his future desires. Needless to say, she said yes to his proposal, with whales breaching in the background! A truly magical moment we’ll always remember! Oh, and we did eventually get our labyrinth pic too! 😉

Share your inspiration and the atmosphere you created for your elopement/wedding.

We wanted to create an atmosphere with nods to the beach (our special place), Hawaii (where we got engaged), and also orchids (symbolic of where we met)! Additionally, we had to create a vibe worthy of the fabulous wedding dress the bridal shop described as “ethereal boho”!

Share your inspiration and the atmosphere you created for your elopement/wedding.

We wanted to create an atmosphere with nods to the beach (our special place), Hawaii (where we got engaged), and also orchids (symbolic of where we met)! Additionally, we had to create a vibe worthy of the fabulous wedding dress the bridal shop described as “ethereal boho”!

Where did you get married? Share how or why you chose your location.

When our large wedding plans were cancelled due to COVID, we were able to find a bit of silver lining and get married at the most beautiful location packed with meaning to us – Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm! We met at Dos Pueblos 5 years prior during a mutual friend’s birthday camping weekend. This beautiful and unique place is where got to know each other for the first time and where our journey together began! It was meant to be that we were able to marry there with the most amazing ocean scenic backdrop surrounded by a small group of loved ones!

Where did you get married? Share how or why you chose your location.

When our large wedding plans were cancelled due to COVID, we were able to find a bit of silver lining and get married at the most beautiful location packed with meaning to us – Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm! We met at Dos Pueblos 5 years prior during a mutual friend’s birthday camping weekend. This beautiful and unique place is where got to know each other for the first time and where our journey together began! It was meant to be that we were able to marry there with the most amazing ocean scenic backdrop surrounded by a small group of loved ones!

Did you include any special touches to make your day more personal or unique to you as a couple?

Erica surprised Chad with a special song. As he waited for her to make it to the aisle, she serenaded him with a recording of a song sung by Erica herself. The song was written by Erica’s mother, and this was the first time Chad had heard it. It was a beautiful and unique touch to the ceremony. We also incorporated a Hawaiian lei presentation to each of our families into our ceremony, which was a nod to where we were engaged and where Chad lived for many years. Chad’s uncle had the most important job as our officiant, and we couldn’t have asked for a more perfect person to guide our ceremony. We were quite proud of the fact that much of the wedding was DIY, especially as it relates to the reception. With the exception of our awesome florals, we created our own reception vibe from layout to lighting design. We were quite proud at what we accomplished in a space that was not originally intended for wedding receptions – it turned out better than we ever imagined!

Did you include any special touches to make your day more personal or unique to you as a couple?

Erica surprised Chad with a special song. As he waited for her to make it to the aisle, she serenaded him with a recording of a song sung by Erica herself. The song was written by Erica’s mother, and this was the first time Chad had heard it. It was a beautiful and unique touch to the ceremony. We also incorporated a Hawaiian lei presentation to each of our families into our ceremony, which was a nod to where we were engaged and where Chad lived for many years. Chad’s uncle had the most important job as our officiant, and we couldn’t have asked for a more perfect person to guide our ceremony. We were quite proud of the fact that much of the wedding was DIY, especially as it relates to the reception. With the exception of our awesome florals, we created our own reception vibe from layout to lighting design. We were quite proud at what we accomplished in a space that was not originally intended for wedding receptions – it turned out better than we ever imagined!

Who attended your ceremony?

Unfortunately, COVID restrictions took a toll on our guest list. We were limited to 25 people all in, vendors included. Determined to make it work, we had a very small group of close family and friends attend in person. However, it was extremely important to us both to be able to share the moment with those who were not physically able to be with us on the day. Luckily Chad is an audio-visual engineer and was able to live stream the entire event using a 3-camera setup, microphones, the works! We were so grateful we were still able to have folks tuning in from all over to support us, and in continuing our DIY theme it doubled as our videography recording too! 😉

Who attended your ceremony?

Unfortunately, COVID restrictions took a toll on our guest list. We were limited to 25 people all in, vendors included. Determined to make it work, we had a very small group of close family and friends attend in person. However, it was extremely important to us both to be able to share the moment with those who were not physically able to be with us on the day. Luckily Chad is an audio-visual engineer and was able to live stream the entire event using a 3-camera setup, microphones, the works! We were so grateful we were still able to have folks tuning in from all over to support us, and in continuing our DIY theme it doubled as our videography recording too! 😉

What was your favorite part of the planning process? What was the most challenging part?

Our favorite part of the planning process was figuring out how to incorporate elements that were unique to us – adding in personal touches that were meaningful to us both individually and as a couple. We had a lot of fun brainstorming! The most challenging part was having to plan everything twice due to COVID. Not only that but having to take your dream of a big wedding and condense it down to something much smaller scale while still trying to maintain some semblance of keeping it a fancy yet safe affair. Not to mention the struggle of figuring out a way to include all the people we had to essentially un-invite due to headcount restrictions and could no longer be there with us in person.

What was your favorite part of the planning process? What was the most challenging part?

Our favorite part of the planning process was figuring out how to incorporate elements that were unique to us – adding in personal touches that were meaningful to us both individually and as a couple. We had a lot of fun brainstorming! The most challenging part was having to plan everything twice due to COVID. Not only that but having to take your dream of a big wedding and condense it down to something much smaller scale while still trying to maintain some semblance of keeping it a fancy yet safe affair. Not to mention the struggle of figuring out a way to include all the people we had to essentially un-invite due to headcount restrictions and could no longer be there with us in person.

Did you have a first dance? What song did you dance to? Why did you pick it?

Our favorite part of the planning process was figuring out how to incorporate elements that were unique to us – adding in personal touches that were meaningful to us both individually and as a couple. We had a lot of fun brainstorming! The most challenging part was having to plan everything twice due to COVID. Not only that but having to take your dream of a big wedding and condense it down to something much smaller scale while still trying to maintain some semblance of keeping it a fancy yet safe affair. Not to mention the struggle of figuring out a way to include all the people we had to essentially un-invite due to headcount restrictions and could no longer be there with us in person.

Did you have a first dance? What song did you dance to? Why did you pick it?

Ed Sheeran’s, “Thinking out Loud” was very popular at the time we started dating. We couldn’t go anywhere without hearing this song pop up. It had a crazy way of working its way into our lives almost daily. So much so that every time it came on, we’d look at each other and wink or hold hands. Even if it wasn’t playing, it was one of those lingering ear worms we’d randomly blurt out! So when it came to choosing a first dance song, this one of the easier decisions to make!

Any special stories from your wedding?

Funny fact! Erica’s Dad drove her to the aisle in a vintage mustang! When she got out of the car and was meant to proceed down the aisle her veil fell off, which was kind of a long and critical piece of the outfit. Luckily she was able to get it back in quickly and we don‘t think anyone really noticed. Phew! Mustang was totally worth it though, and it was a very special moment for the bride and her Dad!

Any special stories from your wedding?

Funny fact! Erica’s Dad drove her to the aisle in a vintage mustang! When she got out of the car and was meant to proceed down the aisle her veil fell off, which was kind of a long and critical piece of the outfit. Luckily she was able to get it back in quickly and we don‘t think anyone really noticed. Phew! Mustang was totally worth it though, and it was a very special moment for the bride and her Dad!

While we didn’t get to see them all in real time, we received an outpouring of love and support from many of our loved ones who were tuning in remotely. They sent us pictures, photos, messages of their experience attending the event online and it meant so, so much to us. Some dressed up in fancy attire at home, some drank champagne, some ate popcorn, and some gathered in small groups. Truly special to have them with us, albeit virtually.

What were the highlights of your day? Were there any surprises?

As the night was coming to a close and it was just the two of us left, we were recounting the day’s events, and both had the exact same comment surrounding the ceremony: it was as if the whole world slowed down around us and we were truly living in that unforgettable moment. We weren’t worrying about any of the DIY elements or rushing to the next thing on the itinerary. Instead, we were focused on each other and truly able to soak it all in. Hands down, the highlight of the day!

What were the highlights of your day? Were there any surprises?

As the night was coming to a close and it was just the two of us left, we were recounting the day’s events, and both had the exact same comment surrounding the ceremony: it was as if the whole world slowed down around us and we were truly living in that unforgettable moment. We weren’t worrying about any of the DIY elements or rushing to the next thing on the itinerary. Instead, we were focused on each other and truly able to soak it all in. Hands down, the highlight of the day!

A close second was the absolutely stunning scenery at sunset golden hour. We escaped after dinner for photo shoot during that time and the results were just, wow! We’ve never seen so many gorgeous colors in one sunset!

What were you most anxious/nervous about before your wedding?

Pulling off all of the DIY factors on the day of was probably the thing we were most worried about. Many of the things couldn’t be set up until the day of which meant that day Chad spent every minute putting things together for the ceremony and reception sites up until the moment he had to get his suit on! All the while Erica didn’t see any of it until she arrived on site to head to the aisle. While she whole heartedly trusted her husband-to-be, it was still nerve wracking not to be involved none the less! Beggars who get married during a pandemic can’t be choosers though so it came to a point where we accepted that so long as we are able to say our vows, the day will be perfect. In the end, all the DIY efforts turned out better in real life then we had planned. It was all so beautiful!

A close second was the absolutely stunning scenery at sunset golden hour. We escaped after dinner for photo shoot during that time and the results were just, wow! We’ve never seen so many gorgeous colors in one sunset!

What were you most anxious/nervous about before your wedding?

Pulling off all of the DIY factors on the day of was probably the thing we were most worried about. Many of the things couldn’t be set up until the day of which meant that day Chad spent every minute putting things together for the ceremony and reception sites up until the moment he had to get his suit on! All the while Erica didn’t see any of it until she arrived on site to head to the aisle. While she whole heartedly trusted her husband-to-be, it was still nerve wracking not to be involved none the less! Beggars who get married during a pandemic can’t be choosers though so it came to a point where we accepted that so long as we are able to say our vows, the day will be perfect. In the end, all the DIY efforts turned out better in real life then we had planned. It was all so beautiful!

What is your most valuable piece of advice you can share with future couples?

No matter how big or how small your wedding, we strongly recommend you hire a day of wedding coordinator! Because our limited head count had to include vendors, we opted to forego this and deeply regret it. No matter how crazy detailed our itinerary was, we still should have had someone dedicated to overseeing it throughout the day. Doing this ourselves took us out of the moment, and even with a small group there’s more to consider than you think! Do yourself the favor so you can spend more time enjoying. It goes by so dang quick!

What is your most valuable piece of advice you can share with future couples?

No matter how big or how small your wedding, we strongly recommend you hire a day of wedding coordinator! Because our limited head count had to include vendors, we opted to forego this and deeply regret it. No matter how crazy detailed our itinerary was, we still should have had someone dedicated to overseeing it throughout the day. Doing this ourselves took us out of the moment, and even with a small group there’s more to consider than you think! Do yourself the favor so you can spend more time enjoying. It goes by so dang quick!

Any words you would like to share about working with Lisa at Pretty/Bold Photography as your photographer?

Our amazing photographer Lisa Ruschioni was there for us from start to finish and every day in between! She is super friendly, insanely organized, and of course crazy talented! As you know we did not have a wedding coordinator so when Lisa offered to help with some general scheduling and timeline advise, we were super appreciative. We asked Lisa and the second shooter (yes, even with a small wedding we had a second shooter, and we don’t regret it one bit!!) to come to a venue they had never been to before, no scouting session or anything.

Without skipping a beat, they both handled it like true masters of their craft and worked together so well! We were instantly put at ease with the very helpful posing coaching we got throughout the day. There was no stressing about what to do without hands, where to look, or how to stand!

Lisa’s eye for color, light, and backdrop scenery is superb and a true gift. The results, hundreds (no joke) of stunningly beautiful photos that bring us to tears every time we look through them. Not just us, everyone we show them to are blown away! Lisa is the real deal and the whole package – pro and fun, all rolled in to one! So beyond grateful we found her!

Any words you would like to share about working with Lisa at Pretty/Bold Photography as your photographer?

Our amazing photographer Lisa Ruschioni was there for us from start to finish and every day in between! She is super friendly, insanely organized, and of course crazy talented! As you know we did not have a wedding coordinator so when Lisa offered to help with some general scheduling and timeline advise, we were super appreciative. We asked Lisa and the second shooter (yes, even with a small wedding we had a second shooter, and we don’t regret it one bit!!) to come to a venue they had never been to before, no scouting session or anything.

Without skipping a beat, they both handled it like true masters of their craft and worked together so well! We were instantly put at ease with the very helpful posing coaching we got throughout the day. There was no stressing about what to do without hands, where to look, or how to stand!

Lisa’s eye for color, light, and backdrop scenery is superb and a true gift. The results, hundreds (no joke) of stunningly beautiful photos that bring us to tears every time we look through them. Not just us, everyone we show them to are blown away! Lisa is the real deal and the whole package – pro and fun, all rolled in to one! So beyond grateful we found her!