Romance can’t be the only basis of having a great relationship. Jong and Hyme are a proof that a couple should have more than just the romance. They must share values and goals to achieve an understanding. I definitely agree with that premise and that is not the only thing I liked about them as a couple but also their style! Jong and Hyme’s wedding speak so much of who they are as individuals. The simplicity and elegance of it all make everything in their wedding beautiful. Congratulations, Jong and Hyme! Your wedding will inspire others as how it inspired me.
Our Story:
Jong and I met 4 years ago, at a Christmas gathering at my house. It wasn’t a magical moment for sure. He thought I was nerdy. I thought he was super shy. However, I do remember wondering if we would be friends and what kind of relationship we might have in the future. It was odd that I thought that. 3 years later, Jong proposed to me on Valentine’s Day! We had really become each other’s best friend by then.
We Are A Perfect Match:
Day to day, we are incredibly happy because we look over each other’s weaknesses, without keeping count. I also think how perfect we are together because our values and goals in life are really one. We agree in how we use our money and how we interact with others. It seems that we have the same vision for our future. He encourages me to be consistently more generous, more forgiving, and more grateful.
The Proposal:
On Valentine’s Day, Jong bought me a box of Godiva chocolates. We chose one to share. After sharing one, he commented that tea would go well with chocolate. I agreed and went off to make some tea for us. When I came back, we settled to have another piece of chocolate. When I opened the box, there was a little box inside where the first chocolate had been. Confused, I pulled it out and there was a ring inside! (Meanwhile, a consistent auto shooting camera (which he had purchased for this occasion) was going off, adding to the confusion of the moment!) He told me something I cannot remember and asked me to marry him!
Wedding Day Outfit Inspiration:
It was very hard for me to find my dress. I thought that perhaps I would not find that perfect dress, especially since I’m not a dress-wearer by nature. I was looking for a dress that was simple- very simple- but elegant and lovely at the same time. When I found this Marisa dress, I felt it was just that! Without fancy embellishments, it still is so lovely just by the quality of its material and the softness of its design. ASH Italia shoes are comfortable, stable, and beautiful. These suede shoes are a favorite of mine. Jong purchased a Theory suit with a black slim tie from J.Crew. Bridesmaids and groomsmen were asked to purchase (or choose) a dress/suit that were in a range of color scheme provided. I enjoy the look of mismatched dresses that complement one another. I think the final look was perfect!
The Planning Process:
We got engaged February 2014 and married in June that same year! Planning was 4 months long. It was enough time for me because I am very simple, but I can see why such a time window would make many brides anxious.
The Best Advice We Received:
To enjoy the moment and not sweat the small stuff. I might have taken this too far, making many friends around me worried for my sake!
Tips & Tricks For Future Brides:
One of the favorite parts of my wedding was the night before. My bridesmaids spent the night over at my house and we created our bouquets and the boutonnieres for the next day. We had a lot of fun doing this and soon they were exclaiming, “My bouquet is awesome!” It made the bouquets so much more meaningful to the event, and it saved us so much money!
The Challenges We Faced:
The biggest task on the list is to find a venue. Being in New York City, some weddings quoted to me were over $50,000. Even so, when I saw photos of the gorgeous One if By Land restaurant, I did not hesitate to reach out to them. I am so glad I didn’t!!
The Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Projects:
I wanted a simple veil without embellishments, which was hard to find. In the end, I bought tulle and with the help of a friend, we cut one out. The bouquets and the boutonnieres were made by the bridal party. I created the programs through Zazzle.com. We created the board that displayed our favors (magnets) and packaged our other favors (water beads).
Wedding Decor Inspiration:
I knew that I wanted to have a different kind of wedding, one that wasn’t grand (ex. banquet halls with columns and marble floors), but something that was elegant, intimate, and lovely. The amazing location of our wedding itself was enough to have an instant gorgeous wedding! The chandeliers, brick walls, tall windows, and garden outside of them set such a beautiful, rustic mood. I didn’t have to provide any decorations.
Money Matters:
- $8000 is the budget
- I would say that the venue saved us an incredible amount of money. However, DIY projects- such as letterpress invitations, veil, bouquets and boutonnieres, and other little details provided great savings as well.
The Guest List:
- I’m not sure how many we invited, but the final guest count was 58 people.
- We kept it very tight because we wanted an intimate wedding. Everyone who attended was a close friend or family member of either one of us (or both).
The Songs:
- Bride’s Entrance: Knowing You- Graham Kendrick
- Recessional: When You’re Smiling- Frank Sinatra
- First Dance: Better Together- Jack Johnson
Our Honeymoon:
We spent two weeks traveling all over Turkey!
We Are Excited About:
I’m excited to spend the quiet moments with my new husband.
Planning Advice For Couples:
Don’t get overwhelmed! I think not taking on too much, but what will not stress you is a good idea. There are many ways to save money. Good luck! 🙂
Favorite Part Of The Wedding:
I can’t say I had one best moment! Every part of it was filled with such love from those around us celebrating our day.
The Highlights From the Ceremony & Reception:
One highlight is watching my grandfather dance with my matron of honor/cousin. I didn’t know he had such moves! Another memorable moment is the special song performed by my brother and a friend. He had taken the song “Moon River” and added a verse personalized for us. He had a hard time singing through it, and in the end, we were all moved to tears. It was very special to me.
Most Memorable Moment:
Maybe the special song- everyone was crying!
VENDORS
Photographer: Weddings by Hanel
Jewelry: Anna Sheffield
Shoes: ASH Italia
Favors and Gifts: Beth of all Trades
Design and Decor: Deborah Leigh
Invitation Designer: DIY
Floral Designer: DIY
Veils and headpieces: DIY
Jewelry: James Allen
Dress Designer: Marisa Bridals
Bakery: Mr. Cupcakes
Ring Designer: Prunier Vecchio
Musicians: Ryo Sasaki Jazz
Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Theory
Reception Venue: One if by Land Two if by Sea
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