Carissa and David, who met through a mutual friend, had their wedding at the beautiful Hidden Creek Lodge in the mountains of Twin Peaks, California (near Lake Arrowhead). With 20 cabins on-site for guests to stay in, everyone was able to enjoy the rustic venue surrounded by trees, streams, and ponds. Both sets of parents have been married 39 years and so they have a very tight group of lifelong friends, many of whom were in the wedding party – 11 groomsmen and 10 bridesmaids! Carissa’s best friend made the fun wedding sneakers for her (nothing wrong with being comfy!), and we just love the beautiful woodland archway leading to the ceremony site! Gilmore Studios was there to capture their day.

From the Bride…

Before the Ring:
Dave and I met 10 years ago at Yard House. I was having dinner with a girlfriend and we ran into a couple friends of hers, one of which was Dave. We ended up talking for hours that night and just clicked. But when he asked for my number I said no. I wasn’t interested in pursuing anything. But we ran into each other again and the chemistry was just undeniable. We’ve been inseparable ever since.

The Proposal:
Dave and I went on a 7-day vacation to Cabo in May of 2012. I was hoping he was going to propose. I felt that 7 1/2 years was plenty enough time to make up his mind! Haha. By day 7 I was convinced that he wasn’t going to ask. We went to a beautiful resort called Esperanza for dinner on our last night. While enjoying a cocktail and waiting for our reservation he asked a server to take a picture. So we stood on the terrace overlooking the ocean, the view was incredible. Next thing I knew he was down on one knee. Even though we’d been together for so long it was still so surreal and overwhelming. It was beautiful.

Photographer: Gilmore Studios / DJ: Arrowhead DJ / Event Venue: Arrowhead Pine Rose Cabins / Bridesmaid Dresses: Bill Levkoff / Caterer: Graystone Catering / Floral Designer: La Jarden Florals / Cake Designer: Niki’s Custom Cakes / Makeup Artist: Prive Beauty Group / Submitted via Two Bright Lights