Annabelle and Brenden met about four years ago through a mutual friend, and hit it off right away. They dated on and off until April, when Brenden proposed on a trip to the Golden Gate Bridge!
The couple was married on July 20th, 2018 in the Provo City Center LDS temple, with a reception and ceremony at Stone Gate Weddings and Events. It was a gorgeous event, but what we really want to focus on is their breathtaking bridals!
All elements of the wedding incorporated the couple’s heritage, in any way possible.
“I wanted to incorporate as much culture into it as I could, which was really fun for everyone involved,” says bride Annabelle. “The bridesmaids had leis because my nana is from Samoa, and we had a fun-filled casual reception to honor her traditions as well. For [Brenden’s] side of the family, they have very traditional wedding dresses.”
They incorporated those traditional textiles in their bridal shoot. Annabelle shared that the grey outfit is the Khmer or Cambodian traditional attire.
“I wasn’t told a whole lot about Cambodian symbolism, but it was fun for me because they go all out with jewels,” says Annabelle. “It’s not something I’m used to, and it was fun to experience something new! I also liked Brenden’s look — he looked like a prince!”
The red dress is the traditional Chinese wedding gown. Annabelle was told to find a gown with either a dragon or a phoenix, because both symbolize eternity and lasting love. She settled on a stunningly embroidered Cheongsam with a phoenix climbing up the front.
Annabelle got married in a breathtaking Allure ballgown from The Bride’s Shop, the layers of lace bringing a delightfully vintage touch to the modern gown.
