Set against the stunning backdrop of the Rhode Island coast, this vibrant wedding celebrated love, laughter, and fun was wonderfully captured by Grace Taylor. With a perfect blend of elegance and playfulness, the couple created a unique atmosphere that captured their personalities and love for life, surrounded by their closest friends and family.
Location: Bristol, Rhode Island, US
Style: Classic, coastal, personal, intimate
Time of planning: 1,5 years
Number of guests: 180
Setting: Farm
Season: Summer
Catherine and Nate’s story began in 2011 when Catherine was exploring the East Coast, and Nate was in college in New England. Their first meeting was through Catherine’s best friend, Kate, but it wasn’t love at first sight. It would take eight years, multiple moves, and two chance encounters before they reconnected during a Memorial Day trip. This time, their connection was instant, and they quickly fell in love, sharing hikes, picnics, and road trips. After a few years in Boston, they moved to San Francisco, where Nate proposed on Moonstone Beach in 2022.
After the proposal, they celebrated with family and friends before relocating to Connecticut with their golden retriever, Charlie. Surrounded by loved ones, they tied the knot in Rhode Island in August 2024, beginning their next chapter together.
Engagement Photoshoot
Their engagement photoshoot was magical, set against breathtaking views—just the two of them, their love, and the beauty of nature. Both their wedding and engagement were captured by the talented Grace Taylor, who perfectly brought their love to life in every shot, showcasing their personalities and deep affection.
Wedding Wishes
Catherine and Nate’s wedding vision was all about celebrating their journey from the East Coast to the West, reflecting the moments and memories that brought them together. The couple wanted the day to be light, fun, and full of meaning. The wedding was their way of saying thank you to the people who shaped their lives and love.
Inspired by their love for both the East and West Coasts, Catherine and Nate’s wedding celebrated the places that shaped them. From Catherine’s Southern California roots to Nate’s summers on the Connecticut coast and their shared love of Maine and Northern California, the wedding reflected their deep connection to water and nature. It was a tribute to their journey and a heartfelt nod to their families, who helped bring them together—two kids from two coasts!
Couple's Morning & Fashion
Catherine’s wedding dress journey had a last-minute twist, but it ended up being perfect. After struggling with indecision, she found the one at BHLDN just a month before the wedding, thanks to her bridesmaids’ help. The dress was classic yet unique, featuring a detachable cape for a dramatic flair. It was elegant but still felt like her. She accessorized with a simple calla lily bouquet, pearl drop earrings, and an emerald ring from her mother for a touch of color.
Nate’s custom-made suit, a rich navy with a modern twist, perfectly matched the relaxed vibe of the wedding. He added an olive branch boutonnière symbolizing peace and unity, and wore a pin from Catherine in memory of his Uncle Tim. From head to toe, he was ready to marry the love of his life.
Ceremony
Catherine and Nate’s ceremony took place on the edge of the Rhode Island coastline, surrounded by towering trees and breathtaking views. They wanted their ceremony to feel true to them—blending tradition with their own personal touch. The day was a celebration of not just their love but the people who helped shape their journey together.
Officiated by Lien, Catherine’s aunt, the ceremony was heartfelt and intimate. Lien kept it short and meaningful, focusing on the couple’s love and commitment. Catherine and Nate exchanged personal vows, sharing promises with each other in front of their closest family and friends. Rather than having a traditional bridal party at the altar, they chose to have their siblings by their side and invited their bridal party to sit in the first row, adding a modern twist to the ceremony.
Reception Decor
Catherine and Nate envisioned a wedding that felt both fun and elegant, creating a space where guests could relax and enjoy themselves while surrounded by beauty. They found the perfect venue—a stunning mix of East and West Coast vibes, with a rocky coastline, towering trees, and even a cozy log cabin. It was a place that felt like home, bridging the two coasts they love and cherish.
For the flowers, they kept things simple and natural, choosing a green and blue color palette to reflect the serene beauty of the coast. What made it even more special was that their families took the lead on the floral arrangements, from the table centerpieces to the bouquets.
They newlyweds also wrote heartfelt letters to each guest, thanking them for shaping their relationship, and placed them in Li Xi envelopes to honor Catherine’s Vietnamese heritage. It was a meaningful and reflective gesture that added a personal touch to their celebration.
Reception
Catherine and Nate’s reception was lively, filled with lush greenery, glowing Vietnamese lanterns, and a classic black-and-white dance floor topped with a sparkling disco ball. The couple, who love a good party, kept things fun by swapping a traditional cake for a candy bar, reflecting Catherine’s love for sweets.
Their first dance to “Safe and Sound” by Capital Cities set the tone for their lighthearted vibe. Heartfelt speeches from family and lots of espresso martinis made for a memorable and high-energy celebration.
The most unforgettable moment of Catherine and Nate’s wedding was when they took a step away from the dance floor and looked out at their friends and family having the time of their lives. Surrounded by laughter, music, and pure joy, they realized how rare and special that moment was—having everyone they loved in one place, celebrating their love. That moment of happiness and connection will stay with them forever.
Advice from the couple:
• Stay true to yourselves. Whether you want something funky, different, or traditional, there’s no right or wrong way to do it. Embrace what feels right for you as a couple, and make the day uniquely yours.
PHOTOGRAPHY Grace Taylor Photography | COORDINATOR Morin’s Catering | VENUE Mount Hope Farm by Morin’s | HAIR Milexy Hair Couture | MAKEUP Tiffany Hall Beauty | BAND EBS Band | CAKE Sarcastic Sweet
