Oh nothing, just watching Anna and Michael's whimsical wedding video on loop, and you? These two perfectly bottled up their love of nature and adventure into the most breathtaking outdoor wedding. Anna is a senior manager of brand communications at one of our very favorite nail polish brands, essie, which means her manis are always on point and she has great taste. Knowing this, you will still blown away by her and Michael's gorgeous wedding, from the color palette, to the hair and makeup, to the place settings complete with a subtle sprig of greenery. Watch Anna and Michael's wedding by CinemaCapture and read on to learn more about this couple, their love story, and how they brought their big day to life — and don't forget to bookmark Anna's glamour waves hairstyle for your next night out, because GOALS.
The Love Story
How did you meet and fall in love?
It was our sophomore year of college when we first met and started off as friends. We were both in the Greek System and lived down the street from each other. However, our love story did not begin until post college.
In 2013, we reconnected at a mutual college friend's birthday party in Chicago. Anna was living in Manhattan at the time with no intention of leaving the city… After several flights, weekly phone calls and daily texts, we knew it was meant to be.
Tell us how the proposal happened.
In June 2016, we were on vacation in Maine. On the second day of our trip, we stopped to take in the view of the harbor after a hike. I looked over my right shoulder to find Michael holding the most beautiful ring with a huge grin on his face. It was the most unforgettable vacation filled with tears, laughs, wine, lobster rolls, sailing, and phone calls to our families and close friends.
Where did you get your engagement ring?
Gerald A. Wolf, a Chicago-based jeweler.
The Wedding
Tell us about something that was creative or unique to your wedding.
The estate was in full bloom with personal touches incorporated throughout the day and night. A few highlights include: my brother as the officiant, a memorial table spotlighting our grandmothers (coincidentally, they were in the same high school class in a small town in Wisconsin), an Instax wedding book, farm-to-table catering, and a two-tier naked cake with an assortment of unique cupcakes.
Describe the moment from your wedding day that stands out to you the most.
Our first look. Historic Shady Lane dates back to the early 1900s so every acre has picturesque backdrops. Seeing each other for the first time felt like a fairy tale moment!
How did you find your wedding dress? Who designed it and how did you know it was the one?
I wore the Sarah Seven Quixote gown. I tried it on three times at three different locations. Each time, I didn't want to take it off!
What made your wedding feel extra special to you and your partner?
Being surrounded by our closest family and friends in the most gorgeous setting.
How did you find your filmmaker and what made you choose them?
CinemaCapture was referred to us by our photographer, Philter Photo. We loved their storytelling approach and passion for weddings.
What is your favorite moment from your wedding film?
Every moment! Our first look, listening to the speeches, hitting the dance floor and the aerial views of Historic Shady Lane.
Is there anything that stressed you out during the wedding planning process that you would tell other brides and grooms not to worry about?
Remember that no matter what, everything falls into place in the end.
The Couple
What do you think the \"secret sauce\" to your relationship is?
Spending quality time together. We make a constant effort to give each other our undivided attention while balancing our Netflix addiction.
What are some of your favorite ways to spend a weekend together?
Exploring a new neighborhood in New York and spending time with close friends and family.
If you were to guess, how do you think you'll celebrate your one-year anniversary?
Hopefully we'll be reliving our honeymoon by visiting a new city and indulging in the most amazing food and wine!