While busy navigating their educational pursuits at Duke University and the chaos of the pandemic, Jaelin and Austin found solace in one another. After connecting on the dating app Bumble, they talked for hours, even closing down the bar on their first date. “With it being COVID, things moved kind of fast, but there were a lot of green flags,” Austin recalled.
Years later, a roller skating outing led to a surprise engagement, orchestrated with the help of loved ones. With Jaelin’s roots in Santa Barbara, her mother’s backyard became the idyllic setting for their cozy, 42-guest celebration—a labor of love by friends and family.
Kristen Hammock
The wedding was a true family affair, with loved ones contributing to practically every detail. From Austin’s twin crafting the arch, Jaelin’s family adorning the backyard with string lights, and friends steaming table linens in preparation for the big day—every detail radiated warmth and community. Even their wedding team was a reflection of their deep connections, from the caterer (Jaelin’s former elementary school lunch lady) to the hair and makeup artist (a best friend of Jaelin’s mother).
“Everyone there had a really strong connection to us—even the person who married us was one of our best friends,” Austin explained.
Kristen Hammock
The morning unfolded as the couple headed to the picturesque Santa Barbara courthouse, accompanied by their closest family members. Upon returning home, Jaelin’s younger brother sang and played the guitar as her mother proudly escorted her down the aisle.
As longtime advocates of veganism, Jaelin and Austin curated a sumptuous feast free of animal products for the reception, intent on showcasing the beauty of plant-based cuisine to their guests. Under the glow of twinkling lights and paper lanterns, amidst heartfelt laughter and dancing, Austin swept Jaelin off her feet, spinning her on his shoulders and sealing their new adventure with a kiss.
Kristen Hammock
The décor
Jaelin’s mother’s backyard transformed into a whimsical wonderland. Vibrant bud vase arrangements altered the space, complemented by the warm glow of bright string lights and paper lanterns for an enchanting atmosphere.
Kristen Hammock
The look
Jaelin’s seamstress, a trusted member of the family for years, lent her expertise to the wedding preparations, having even worked on Jaelin’s mother’s high school homecoming dress. Collaborating seamlessly, she skillfully altered her gown to perfection. In harmony with the timeless elegance of the bride’s dress, the groom opted for a classic suit, a striking contrast against the casual backyard setting and drawing attention to the couple’s refined style.
Kristen Hammock
The music
The couple hadn’t settled on their first dance tune, yet Austin assured Jaelin not to fret, orchestrating a heartfelt surprise with “I Will Follow You Into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie. The song was the soundtrack of their early days of living together, courtesy of their ever-reliable smart home system. “For some reason, it would play that song all the time. No matter what the playlist was, it would always just sneak on, so it jokingly became our song,” Austin explained. As the evening unfolded, Jaelin’s brother, a seasoned wedding DJ, assumed his role, supplying the melodic backdrop for a night of joyous celebration.
Kristen Hammock
Personal touches
As the ceremony drew to a close, a live band serenaded the couple with trumpets, heralding their union.
Kristen Hammock
Advice for the big day
“People love to give opinions on what your wedding should be like, but do whatever makes you happy and have the wedding you want to have,” Jaelin said.
Kristen Hammock
The menu
Appetizers
Bite-sized wild mushroom toast
Peach-basil gazpacho shooters
Kristen Hammock
Dinner
Vegetable paella
Pickled cabbage shooters with peas and microgreen salad
Papas bravas with fresh pea shoots
Kristen Hammock
Dessert buffet
An assortment of pies including chocolate silk, chocolate ganache, blueberry cheesecake streusel, lemon chiffon, Southern pecan, key lime apple, and strawberry custard, along with vanilla sponge cake with coconut cream frosting
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Aruka Sanchir (@ruukes) is the Senior Digital Editor at VegNews.
