liz + will

JUNE 9, 2018

Fargo native Liz found her future husband when they were both stationed in San Diego, California, serving in the United States Navy. After a less than stellar blind date, Liz was invited to a party where she met Will, and they’ve been together ever since. When it came time to plan their wedding, the couple centered everything around a place they had already fallen in love with — downtown Fargo.

Currently living in Virginia meant planning everything from afar so Liz and Will turned to local wedding planner Christy Tehvan of Love Always Floral to help them bring their vision to life. “We were going for a classic, elegant wedding. White florals, navy blue and some dusty blue accents combined with Christy’s vision really helped us achieve that look,” Liz says. “Everything in our house is decorated in navy blue and white. It just feels so timeless.”

The sunny June morning of their wedding day began with getting ready at a downtown landmark, the Hotel Donaldson. Later, as guests arrived at the Abovo events space for the ceremony, they were treated to a small bar with wine and beer. Liz and Will have a passion for visiting local breweries, wineries and distilleries, so seeing everyone seated with a drink during their vows set the mood for a fun and laid back celebration. What was their favorite part of the day? Liz says “We loved the atmosphere of the entire day, but the ceremony was so special to us. We’d been planning the big day for so long that it felt surreal to be holding hands saying our vows to one another.” Following the vows, a traditional sword arch sent the bride and groom off to the reception. “It was so fun to share that tradition with friends and family who hadn’t seen it before,” Liz says.

White florals were brought to life by navy tablecloths and gold and white place settings that sparkled against the wood beams and bricks walls of the Plains Art Museum. Guests sat down to dinner as the skies darkened with rain, followed by a beautiful rainbow visible through the museum’s windows. The weather soon cleared and Liz changed into a second dress of white lace for dancing, and more downtown photos complete with sparklers. “We loved dancing the night away. Drew from Fuze Entertainment nailed it and we had a blast!” Liz exclaims.

Liz’s advice to brides-to-be is simple. “Have a good planner on your side. We were planning our wedding from afar and having Christy was key. She took our vision and brought it to life.”

The newlyweds left the day after the wedding for a cruise in Alaska. Liz says, “It was a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.” When they aren’t enjoying the great outdoors, Liz and Will love cooking together and spending time with their goldendoodle, Harper.

— LIZ ceremony: Abovo reception: Plains Art Museum photographer:

Two Birds Photography hair + makeup:

ADAE Salon floral design + wedding planning:

Christy Tehvan, Love Always Floral catering: Chef’s Table dj: Fuze Entertainment videography:

Grassfire Studios ceremony bridal gown:

Marni Gown by Hayley

Paige — Lovely Bride DC reception bridal gown:

Jolie Gown by Catherine

Deane — BHLDN cake:

Nicole’s Fine Pastry donuts: Sandy’s Donuts acrylic signs: Erin

Breean Creative on Etsy decor rentals: The White House Co.