1. Tell us about your wedding day and surrounding events! Where did it all go down? Did you have any particular inspiration or musts when choosing the location?

Our wedding was in Petaluma, CA—a charming little town just north of San Francisco. We moved back to California from New York during COVID to be closer to friends and family, and this place has truly become our sanctuary. My partner, Nat, has an art studio in a riverside warehouse that we’ve spent countless hours in, so it was the perfect spot to celebrate. It’s a place we hold dear, filled with memories, creativity, and now, our wedding!

2. How did you and your partner meet? What was the proposal like?

We met in the most unexpected way. A friend was moving from San Francisco to Los Angeles and invited both of us to a show she was in. I didn’t have anyone to go with, so she sent me to Nat’s house to join a big group. When they opened the door, we just clicked—danced the night away, and the rest is history! Nat proposed in Bolinas, CA, in some tide pools that we love to explore. It was the day between our birthdays in December. Even after seven years together, it was the sweetest surprise.

"The unique rosettes, dreamy fabric, and overall vibe made me feel like a walking cake."

3. Describe your Happy Isles dress and/or dresses! When did you know it was the one?

My dress is an 80s/90s Scaasi dream come true! Funny story—I had been in the shop earlier that year and fell head over heels for another Scaasi dress that was, unfortunately, too small. I didn’t even realize my wedding dress was by the same designer until much later. The unique rosettes, dreamy fabric, and overall vibe made me feel like a walking cake. It was unlike anything else, and I knew I had to have it.

4. What did your partner wear down-the-aisle and did you share outfits pics before the big day?

Nat and I aren’t big on surprises, so we didn’t keep anything under wraps! They were actually there when I picked out my dress at Happy Isles. They rocked a custom brown jacket by Al’s Attire in San Francisco and paired it with vintage Prada trousers. We were both so excited to see our outfits come together and it took some time.

5. How did your guests respond to your outfit/s? Were there any standout reactions?

Our friends and family know we love fashion, so they weren’t too surprised by our choices! Everyone loved the old-school glam vibes. It was very “us,” and that’s what made it so special.

6. Where did you shop for accessories and how did you style your look/s?

My dress was such a showstopper that accessories almost took a backseat. I ended up wearing my own vintage rings, found the perfect shoes on Etsy, and added a fun touch with Susan Alexandra beaded earrings. Those earrings were extra special—they reminded me of abstract dragonflies, which represent my father, who passed away 14 years ago. It felt like he was there with me.

7. What was the most memorable aspect of your dress shopping experience? Is there anything you would like to highlight or share with other brides considering an appointment at Happy Isles?

Happy Isles is pure magic! It feels like shopping in the most fabulous closet imaginable, filled with the best vintage treasures. The experience is cool, casual, and glamorous. It’s a playground for anyone who loves fashion and vintage finds.

8. Okay. Your HI wedding dress is a person. What is their name, and describe their perfect date!

My dress would be named “Rosie,” and her perfect date would be a scene straight out of a classic film, like Funny Girl or My Fair Lady. A private dinner in a historic mansion draped in vintage Hollywood splendor—elegant drapes, art deco accents, and candlelight. A gourmet meal would be served in a grand dining room. Afterward, they'd retreat to a lounge, where there would be a live piano performance and dancing. 

"We got ready together, walked down the aisle together, skipped the cake, and made choices that felt true to us." 

9. Getting serious for a second. Did you ever feel like you were breaking the mold or challenging expectations while wedding planning? What were some ways you stayed true to yourself during what can be an emotionally complex experience?

Absolutely! I never even thought I wanted a wedding, so if I can do it, you can too! We didn’t follow many traditional wedding norms, and luckily, our families were incredibly supportive. We got ready together, walked down the aisle together, skipped the cake, and made choices that felt true to us. We focused on being present with each other and making decisions that felt good. We also wanted as many loved ones as possible to join us, so we moved up the wedding date to secure a larger space, served paella, and did our own flowers. It was all about creating a day that reflected who we are as a couple.

Molly and Nat in front of original artwork that adorned the space.

10. They say every wedding has a “wild card” moment. Did anything unexpected happen or surprise you during planning or day-of?

Yes! During our ceremony, which took place in front of giant windows overlooking the river, a giant white heron flew by. It was like a blessing from nature—such a magical and unexpected moment!

11. HOT TAKES: Do you have any wedding planning or dress shopping advice? Please pay it forward to our future brides!

At the start of the process, take time to sit down with your partner and figure out what’s truly important to both of you. Don’t assume anything—it can save you from going down unnecessary rabbit holes in the planning process. Tackle things step by step to avoid getting overwhelmed, and remember, you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to. When it comes to dress shopping, stay true to yourself and your style—what matters most is how you feel in that dress.

"I felt this wave of joy coursing through me—like pure bliss and love filling the air. I’ll never forget that moment."

12. If you had to choose your single best wedding day memory what would it be?

This might sound cheesy, but it was having all our family and friends in one place, celebrating with us. That only happens at weddings and funerals, right? Right after we were pronounced married and shared our first kiss, the whole room erupted in cheers. I felt this wave of joy coursing through me—like pure bliss and love filling the air. I’ll never forget that moment.

13. Now that the wedding chapter has come to a close, what are some dreams you have for your future, both personally and as a couple?

Our dream is to keep building our life together—both metaphorically and, hopefully, one day physically by creating a home that’s truly ours. Along the way, we want to continue doing creatively inspiring and heartfelt work that not only brings us happiness but also makes a meaningful impact on those around us.

14. And finally - shout out your vendors!

Photography: @sarahdavis

Venue: @ourhouse__studio

Flowers and Fabric Installations: @natsaia

Food: @paelladelreyes

Wedding Coordination & Food: Janice Clement, @tatsugirl

Music: Heart of Gold DJs @heartofgolddjs, Paz Gajardo @pazandrea68

Makeup: Denise DeCrona, @denise_love_and_peace

Hair: Alex Tawney, @alextawney