Monica’s Wedding Gown Preservation in California
Monica’s marriage to the love of her life, Susie, seemed to reflect both of their personalities in a vibrant and playful manner. The outdoors ceremony boasted quirky details such as “flower grannies” (Monica’s grandmother and her sisters!), while the entire wedding weekend followed a well-executed summer camp theme. The fact that the place of celebration saw rain that day for the first time in over 30 years only added to the magical atmosphere, and Monica could confidently leave it to GreenStreets Cleaners in San Francisco to take care of her muddied gown thereafter. Get the inside scoop on Monica’s creative wedding and see more photos of the breathtakingly charming couple below!
When was your wedding date?
June 17, 2016
What was your wedding location and venue name?
Parker’s Resort in Guerneville, CA
Who is the designer of your gown and where did you purchase it?
Maggie Sottero “Ettia” gown, purchased at Janene’s Bridal in Alameda.
When did you know that your gown was “the one”?
The moment I saw it on the rack, I knew it was special… and when I put it on, I felt its magic instantly!
What is your absolute favorite memory from your wedding day?
The moment we saw each other… my heart was racing and I was shaking, and Susie said I literally took her breath away. We couldn’t take our eyes off of each other!
Other favorite memories… the moment I found the mini photo of my dad that my aunt tucked into my bouquet so that he would be with me in spirit. And, that my grandma and her sisters were our “flower grannies!” It was so special!
Why did you want to get your gown cleaned and preserved?
I would love the possibility of wearing it again! It is so incredibly beautiful, and I can’t imagine only wearing it on that one amazing day. I’m thinking cruise ship formal night, or costume ball… maybe even grocery store produce run!
What made your wedding ceremony feel extra special?
Probably the most memorable part of our wedding is that it rained throughout our outdoor reception! We were on the Russian River, at a campground we booked for our Summer Camp-themed weekend, and apparently it hadn’t rained there in June in over 30 years! Even though some guests retreated to get dry, most everyone stayed and danced in the rain until almost midnight! We had a blast under the redwoods, dancing to all of our favorite music, laughing with our friends and family, and even though my dress was muddy up to my waist, it was all so special and so worth it. We even did the sparkler send-off in the rain!
Why did you decide to get your gown cleaned by a member of the Association of Wedding Gown Specialists?
I did extensive research and talked with multiple companies. I really loved the quality of actual services included, the confidence in knowing that they are a member of the Association, as well as the customer service I received. The reviews were excellent, and my instincts told me that this was the place I could trust with my gorgeous gown!
Photographer: Reese Brindisi (with assistant, Alexander Dita)
Wedding Planner: Natalie of Love and Sweet Nectar Events and Beauty Boutique
Makeup Artist: Kristin Brandon
Dress alterations: Elana Bloom
Hair: done by Monica’s bestie Kristi Grand
Cake: Gala Bakery
Catering: Lamont Perriman
Officiants: Rich and Yvonne Dutra-St. John
Flowers: Cynthia Nicholson, Trevor McGlynn, and crew