At Always Elegant Bridal, we believe that every love story deserves to be celebrated in style, and that's exactly what happened with real-life couple Brooke and Collin! Featured in Real Weddings Magazine's “Lovingly Retro” styled shoot, this adorable duo modeled wedding dresses from our boutique, and the chemistry between them was undeniable. Let’s take a closer look at their experience, love story, and some advice they have for engaged couples!
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Brooke, who had always dreamt of modeling, was thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of the shoot. “Playing dress-up all day in beautiful dresses? What’s not to love? It was truly a dream come true,” she shared. Modeling in exquisite wedding gowns she wouldn’t have chosen for herself, she felt like a princess throughout the entire day. The whimsical, retro-themed shoot resonated with Brooke’s personal style as well, as she reflected on how it reminded her of her own wedding - a blend of boho glam and whimsical florals. |
For Collin, the day was all about supporting his wife’s dream. Though he joked about being “unqualified to model,” he embraced the experience because it meant spending time with Brooke in a fun and creative setting. “No one’s looking at me anyway!” he said with a smile, giving all the attention to his stunning wife. Despite his nerves in front of the camera, he shared that modeling together made the experience easier for both of them, thanks to their natural chemistry.
Brooke and Collin’s love story is a modern fairytale. After meeting on a dating app and spending three wonderful years together, Collin planned a heartwarming proposal with the help of Brooke’s family and friends. He popped the question at Maggie McGarry’s in San Francisco, the bar where they had made their relationship official. As a surprise, he had their loved ones waiting behind a removable wall to celebrate the moment! Brooke was stunned, and the surprises didn’t end there - Collin had planned an engagement party that very same day. “It was so sweet,” Brooke reminisced, “He even had my best friend waiting with a white dress for me to wear at the party!”
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Their wedding was nothing short of magical. Brooke described it as a “dream come true,” with sunset-inspired colors of pink, rust, and rose gold setting the scene for their countryside celebration. True to her extra personality, she had a large bridal party of 10 on each side, and the music, food, and heartfelt speeches made the day unforgettable for their guests. Collin echoed her sentiments, adding that the intimate venue and having 140 of their closest friends and family made the day truly special. |
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As a couple who’ve been through the highs and lows of wedding planning, Brooke and Collin have some wise words for other engaged couples. Brooke emphasizes the importance of taking time to simply enjoy being engaged. “It all goes so fast, and planning can be stressful. Find those moments of joy and remember it’s all worth it!” Collin offers some practical advice, urging couples to live together before tying the knot. “Being able to coexist in harmony is far more important than initial physical attraction.”
When asked about their experience, Collin expressed his gratitude to the team at Real Weddings Magazine. “Thank y’all for the amazing experience and making us feel like models for a day!”
We couldn’t be more thrilled to have been part of this beautiful couple’s love story. If you’re ready to find your dream dress and create magical moments of your own, we’d love to help! Book your appointment with Always Elegant Bridal today - and let’s make your bridal dreams come true!
(PS: If you want to browse all the fabulous photos and get your own bridal inspo, check out our Pinterest board of pics from the shoot!)
Vendors:
- Venue: Hotel Winters
- Photographer: Capture Create Studios
- Videographer: Philippe Studio Pro
- Content Creator: Ce Jour Creations
- Design, Styling + Coordinator: Kendall Melissa Events
- Styling + Floral Designer: J. Marie Floral + Photo
- Wholesale Flowers: J&D Wholesale Flowers
- Balloon Artist: Swell Balloons
- Cake Designer: Custom Cakes by Tara
- Hair + Makeup Artist: Personify
- Bridal Gowns: Always Elegant Bridal & Tuxedo
- Shoes: DSW
- Suits: Tuxedo Den
- Jewelry + Accessories: Azazie
- Jewelry + Accessories: Blair Nadeau Bridal Adornments
- Jewelry + Accessories: Macy's | Nafissa Beyomar, My Stylist@Macy's Roseville Galleria
- Jewelry + Accessories: Mariell
- Tabletop Rentals: Two Rivers Events
- Ceremony and Reception Chairs, Arches, Lounge Furniture, Bar and Decor Rentals: Petite Events Company
- Linens: MG Linen Services
- "Sugar" Cart Rental: Sips & Floss
- Paperie + Custom Signage: Thick & Thin Lines Calligraphy