The Thursday Club

Ceremony Rehearsal

Rehearsal Dinner

Pure Project

Beer with the Brides

Wedding Day

Spring

Our Wedding

Our Story

Our Proposal Story

We had been living together since Fiona contracted COVID-19 in January. Chelsea caught it while nursing Fiona back to health, which sped up our moving-in timeline! After living together, making happy memories, and handling what life threw at us, we decided we were ready for the next step.&nbsp; Chelsea wanted a simple and classic ring, while Fiona wanted something unique. So we decided to shop together to make sure we got exactly what the other wanted at a local shop near where we go to Trader Joe's all the time. Once we had the rings, we agreed to do separate proposals.&nbsp; Fiona's SideWe discussed how we envisioned our proposal. Chelsea mentioned a local place where I knew exactly where I wanted to do it. At our favorite coffee shop, Mnemonic, we go to every weekend. It is a charming queer-owned place with my favorite espresso, and we like the owners. I went on a scouting trip to see if it would be okay if I proposed inside, and they asked if I had reached out on Instagram already (and I didn't….)&nbsp; However, I proceeded with my plan. I was working on a cherry blossom crochet blanket for Chelsea since cherry blossoms are meaningful to her. I called it the betrothal blanket. I worked hard to finish it by the weekend because Chelsea's friend Lydia was visiting from New York. When Chelsea made a group chat, I reached out to her privately to see if she could help take pictures and think of some other details that Chelsea would like. I almost got away without Chelsea realizing I was texting Lydia privately. Still, she grabbed my phone when she heard a text asking me to give it to her and saw her name! I tried to play it off like it was different, Lydia, but I could tell Chelsea was on to me… On Wednesday, I went on a sneaky walk with Kimchi to drop off the blanket and the Prosecco my parents got us when we told them we were planning to get engaged. I asked if they could find some sunflowers since those were Chelsea's favorite cut flowers. I brought Chelsea back a coffee as a surprise. On Thursday, Chelsea brought me a drink from Mnomnic as a treat. (Interesting coincidence.) I was very nervous on Friday morning, so I was up early drafting my proposal. Chelsea off-handedly mentioned that she would like to save the proposal for the future, and I had just planned on winging it.&nbsp; We dressed in cute outfits, pretending nothing would happen, and Chelsea, Lydia, Kimchi, and I went to Mnemonic when the door opened. It was busier than I expected, but when we got to the door, our table was set up with the betrothal blanket and flowers, and the prosecco was out. Chelsea knew exactly what was going to happen. So we walked to the table, and this other guest moved chairs to his table since the coffee shop was tiny. I knelt down and started reading my proposal notes when Kimchi decided to bark at another dog entering the café. While people were trying to quiet her, I grabbed and held her in one arm and my phone in the other. I was so emotional and happy that I kept crying and crying. After Chelsea said yes, she then proposed to me! She had also reached out to the owners, choosing a particular playlist. She had them make a special drink called The Fiona, a matcha they usually don't make. While we were proposing, someone shouted, "Love wins!"&nbsp; After we proposed, Kimchi was a perfect emotional support pug. We had a Prosecco and orange foam drink that the owners made, and we were both so happy that we took the day off. Lydia did a great job taking pictures and recording the whole thing, and she brought some cupcakes from sprinkles that she knew Chelsea would like. Even though there were little clues that something was up, like Chelsea's questions about what kind of drink I wished they would have or someone reaching out to the owners to propose, it was still so unique and very gay that we both chose to propose simultaneously.&nbsp; Chelsea's side&nbsp;As we discussed boundaries on proposal settings (for me, not in our home; for her, nowhere super public), my plan shifted from a favorite "fancy" restaurant to our favorite coffee shop. I sent the owners a DM on Instagram to ensure it was okay! Then, the planning continued. Our friend, Fiona's MOH Sarah, would help ensure the moment was photographed. But COVID changed her travel plans. Thankfully, my friend Lydia was coming to town from NYC! I texted Lydia the plan and asked for her help. Little did I know that Fiona was doing pretty much the same thing! Fiona picked up the rings on a Thursday, giving me her ring to surprise her with a proposal. I entered the coffee shop earlier that morning to ensure my plans were set. A playlist I made on Spotify was ready to go. A matcha latte was dreamed up, especially for Fiona. And a big question mark is whether Kimchi, the pug, will join us. Friday morning, Fiona was up incredibly early and insisted we go to Mnemonic, the coffee shop, right when it opened. I, however, wanted the initial morning rush to pass. But the suspicions rose as we both dressed in fancier than usual outfits. As we walked to the coffee shop, pretending it was to show it to Lydia, forgetting we had brought her there before, I noticed the crochet blanket Fiona made for our engagement on a table. She beat me to it! I had to let her propose first. She wrote down some beautiful words (just for us), and Lydia did her best to keep Kimchi away while videoing the moment. But Kimchi's guard dog personality perked up, and Fiona scooped her up so she'd stop barking at another regular's dog. Fiona proposed, and then I showed her the special drink on the menu and got down on one knee. It was a beautiful and perfect double proposal.

Proposal Story

Photos

Officiant

Robbyn and Chelsea met in 2006 during Cal Poly SLO's orientation leader training program. They were friends throughout college through the different student organizations they both were part of. After college, Robbyn moved to Orange County with Chelsea following a couple years later. They lived together with housemates and a beloved cat named Kevin (a girl cat named after the bird in up). 

Robbyn is always up for a late night deep thinking chat, trying a new place, and international adventures. So, naturally, she and Fiona hit it off right away too! Fiona and Robbyn are kindred spirits. We love hanging out with Robbyn and her husband, Daniel, whenever we get the opportunity. We talk about our pets, talk about the latest international adventure, talk about our hopes for a better world, and try out fun new places.

As someone who has known Chelsea through a variety of seasons of life, is a talented Marriage and Family Therapist, and a wonderful friend, it felt just right to ask Robbyn to officiate our wedding.

Robbyn Taylor

Fiona's Bridal Party

Sarah was literally my first friend who I made when I moved to San Diego from Los Angeles when I was 14. We met at the zoo art camp (she was the aide) and then we went to same high school and the college! 

I am not sure what I do without her (probably be way more boring) So grateful to have Sarah in my life who embraces everything about me.

Sarah Miller

Nora has always been someone who I aspired to be like when I was little. I still admire her drive, intelligence, creativity and how she is raising Warren and Maya to be kind humans. I am very grateful to have my sister be in my bridal party and life. It is also a nice bonus to get her in San Diego instead of trekking to Connecticut to see her!

Nora Bok

Sam became my best friend freshmen year of high school at Our Lady of Peace. We bonded over reading fantasy our nerd bond has persisted and grown through going to Comic Con every year for the past 20 years. Besides having excellent taste she always gives the level headed advice, helps me problem solve, and has a great sense of direction that has saved me many times.

Sam Beu Maher

Patti is my friend from the San Francisco State College Art department!  I also have I have the honor of being in her bridal party too! (She is beating me by getting married in April!)  Patti is insanely talented and is my craft and artist guru. She is genuinely one of the kindest, most thoughtful, and hardworking person out there. It is a privilege to be her friend! 

Patti Pauchnik 

I met Juliana at the freshmen orientation at college and she has become my person since then. We were roommates for a large part of the time I was in San Francisco and she just gets me. Whenever we get to hang out we just click and have also bonded through nerd activities and have had so many adventures together (Twilight, Borders, the list goes on...) I am so happy that Juliana is a part of my life and getting to celebrate with me!

Juliana DiPietro

As devoted dog parents Chelsea and I had to include our fur children. The positions of flower girl and ring bearer were already being filled by humans, so she is going to be a bridesdog along with her sister Ahsoka Tano. I rescued Kimchi back in 2023 from the Pug Rescue of Korea and she was my first foster and then she became a foster fail. She charmed her way in my life with her large personality, excellent cuddles, and zest for life.

Kimchi

Chelsea's Bridal Party

Melissa is Chelsea's younger sister and consistent sports adventure friend. She is a dedicated mother, leader, and activist. She loves writing and is in the process of writing a novel. As one of Chelsea's closest friends, there is no one else she'd rather have as her matron of honor.

Melissa Chavarro

Colby and Chelsea met at a house party in college when Chelsea overheard Colby mention that she was from San Diego. They quickly bonded over music, skateboards, art, spiritual values, and general San Diego things. Chelsea and Colby frequently text about San Diego sports, like the Padres or the Wave soccer team.

Colby Karzen

Lydia was one of the first people Chelsea met when she moved to Orange County. They were part of the same non profit organization for many years, but after Lydia graduated from CSUF became better friends. They love laughing and joking around together. Lydia is a true friend who is there for you whenever you need someone. Although Grey's Anatomy is currently on hiatus, they have a standing weekly tv show debrief and catch up video chat.

Lydia Wang

Jojo and Chelsea met while working at the San Diego Zoo for their summer camp program. Jojo is one of the kindest and hardest working people! They quickly bonded over the San Diego Padres. Naturally, Jojo invited Chelsea to play with her softball league - America's Finest City Softball League (AFCSL), which is the largest LGBT+ sports organization in San Diego. Jojo loves softball, but is currently recovering from a sports-related injury. They also share a mutual love for board games, hosting people, building community, and laughter.

Jojo Munoz

Bethany and Chelsea met through a non profit organization they both volunteered for in college. They quickly bonded over their quick wit, enjoyment of a good debate, and wanting to see people improve their lives. Chelsea loves to visit Bethany, her husband, and her adorable three kids. They laugh, catch up, talk about the latest trends or articles in nutrition, call each other out on their BS, and drink good cocktails! Bethany is a true friend - supportive and will tell you not what you want to hear, but what you need to hear!

Bethany Douglas

Ahsoka Tano is named after a Star Wars character but she has many names: Soka, Soki, Squirt, Tiny, and Diablo Perro sometimes! She is a Brittany Spaniel that Chelsea has raised since she was a puppy. She is an excellent birder and hunts doves and pheasants with her Grandpa Mike. She is very mischievous, exceptionally smart, and a top tier cuddler. 

Ahsoka Tano

Our Entourage

You'll get to some cute kids as part of our bridal party! Melissa's sons live close by in San Diego while Nora's kids live in Connecticut. My cousin Leah lives in Washington with her family. We love any chance we get to visit with our "niblings" and adore spending time with them. We want to respect their online privacy, so they will be represented by their current favorite characters. (But best believe they are very cute!)

Luca is Melissa's eldest and his favorite character is Sonic the Hedgehog! Luca loves soccer, baseball, math, and beyblades. (He has even competed in beyblade competitions!)

Luca 

Nico is Melissa's youngest son and he loves Spider Man! His favorite version is Spiderman and Friends. He also loves paw patrol, his big brother, snacks, and chaos. 

Nico 

Warren is Nora's eldest son and one of his favorite characters is Bill Cipher from the cartoon Gravity Falls. Warren lives in Connecticut, loves his new puppy Fritz, monsters, and being sassy.

Warren

Maya is Nora's daughter and is all about Frozen, especially Elsa. But according to her she is "Anna". She loves gymnastics, princesses, and being powerful like Elsa. She is very excited for her flower duties.

Maya

Henly is my cousin Leah's eldest daughter. She is a true girlie girl, loves books, rainbows, unicorns, mermaids, swimming and dance parties to Taylor Swift.  She is excelling in kindergarten but her favorite part is spending time with her friends!

Henly

Logan is Leah's youngest daughter is a little sour patch kid! She's the most empathetic person but can also serve up ice cold looks. She loves Bluey, playing dress up, "cooking food", and doing everything her big sister does. 

Logan

Wedding Party

June 8 Festivities

Our wedding will be Sunday, June 8, 2025 at the Thursday Club in Pt Loma, CA. Please wear garden party attire (examples on the Q&amp;A). Our ceremony will start at 3:30pm, followed by a cocktail hour and reception. Our venue requires that everyone leave quietly by 9pm as it is in a residential neighborhood.

June 8

Q + A

There are so many amazing places to stay in and around San Diego. Instead of reserving a block of rooms, we worked with The Knot to provide <a href="https://hotelblocks.theknot.com/EventPage7955720" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">this discount link</a> to a variety of hotels. Our venue is in a neighborhood in Point Loma. Hotels near the San Diego Airport, Ocean Beach, or the shopping area known as Liberty Station are all close.

Travel

We LOVE this coffee shop so much, we both decided to propose there. They serve oatmilk as the standard milk in drinks and the owners are lovely humans.

Mnemonic Coffee

Chelsea's sister wrote a travel guide for people visiting San Diego with children. It has a lot of our favorite spots to enjoy with our nieces and nephews.

Little Feet, Big Adventures: San Diego

This is a brand new bakery that is within walking distance of our place as well as Mnemonic! It is a collective of bakers and every week is different. They do close early so I recommend checking their hours before you visit.

Michi Michi

Chelsea and Fiona have both worked at the San Diego Zoo, and Chelsea has been working there for the past three summers! The pandas can be hard to get in to see, but there is so much more to see beyond those black and white mammals. Our favorites are the baby capybara pups and taking the Sky Tram. It's well worth the cost of admission!

San Diego Zoo

Our favorite drag queen, Miriam T, highly recommends this spot. We love the chickie chickie parm parm pizza!

Sisters Pizza

There are a variety of museums, gardens, and beautiful scenery around Balboa Park. We go almost every weekend!

Balboa Park

Don't let the name fool you - this is a gelato shop! The lines can be long, but the experience is well worth it.

An's Dry Cleaning

Barrio Logan offers many wonderful things to do. One of them is this great, LGBT+-owned bookstore.

Libélula Books & Co

Convoy St has many fantastic restaurants, dessert spots, and boba places. This is Fiona's all-time favorite boba and soft serve place. We also recommend Friend's House for Korean Food (not KBBQ), Kura for sushi, and Jasmine for dim sum.

Boba Bar and Desserts

Little Italy Mercato Farmers' Market

This is our celebration spot! It is a delicious vegan restaurant and the drinks are excellent and the vibe is very funky.

KINDRED

This is a very cool bookstore that specializes in fantasy and science fiction, and has a cute merchandise.

Mysterious Galaxy Bookstore

This is Fiona's favorite museum, its focus is on craft/folk art and is always very interesting. She used to volunteer in their library. The restaurant inside [Artifact] that is located inside and is her mom's favorite place to eat with her friends.

Mingei International Museum

Fiona's dad Don Liddell has recently become a docent there and has been having a great time there! And the gem collection is very cool.

Fiona & Chelsea

Fiona & Chelsea

Q + A

Where are you getting married?

What time is the ceremony?

Are kids allowed at the wedding?

What is Garden Party Attire?