A Polished Rustic Wedding at The Crosby in Rancho Santa Fe, California

Lauren McDonell (29 and a first grade teacher) met Eric Cappel (32 and director of sales operations) on her first and only eHarmony date. What started out as simple drinks ended in dinner and a two year long distance relationship. Lauren and Eric traveled to visit one another between California and Texas until Eric was offered a job in St. Louis. They fell in love with the city and he knew what it would take to have her by his side in St. Louis. A few months later, Eric traveled to La Jolla and proposed to Lauren while down by the shore. They wanted a venue where they could have both their ceremony and reception but move about to separate spaces. The Crosby provided them with multiple spacious areas and beautiful views of the mountains. Eric and Lauren wanted their decor to represent their classic, polished taste so they incorporated ivory and navy blue accents to their clean cut theme. Their long family style tables were set with wooden table runners topped and boxwood topiaries. Above, ping pong string lights lit the outdoor patio area while guests took pictures in the photo booth or relaxed by the cigar bar. Lauren and Eric were able to create a comfortable, rustic feel for their guests to enjoy themselves.