For Mariel and AJ, a shared love of AJ’s homeland, Poland—where Mariel served her mission with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — is what initially united them. The couple met at the Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah; AJ conducted Mariel’s language evaluation prior to her leaving for teaching overseas. “I later learned that AJ was not as intimidating as he seemed in my interview when we taught together in Poland,” Mariel teased. “On a trip to Norway with family, AJ proposed inside a glacier that was carved into tunnels and art. He designed my ring with the sun from the movie Tangled in mind and decided on the most durable materials for a ring: diamonds and platinum, to represent the strength and resilience of our relationship.”

With such a romantic history, Mariel and AJ’s choice of vintage glamour for their wedding design fit perfectly, crafted to fit their personalities. Working closely with wedding expert Carol Berardino of Elite Events Management, the couple selected a private estate in La Jolla for the reception that followed their family ceremony at the Los Angeles Temple. They collaborated with esteemed floral designer Derith Mason of Artistic Florals to create the celebration of their dreams. “Not being drawn to pastels, I wanted a palette that would stand out. I enjoy brighter colors, so we chose all kinds of bright pinks, oranges, yellows, and purples.”

The wedding attire and personal floral set an exquisite tone for the day. Mariel was radiant in her gold vintage Nicole + Felicia wedding gown with ornate detailing. “I am ecstatic that I found a dress that really felt like me,” Mariel explained. She carried a hand-tied bouquet of deep pink and orange Elegance ranunculus; hot pink peonies and roses; and purple spray roses. Her bridesmaids wore stunning fuchsia dresses, accented with bright bouquets. AJ and his groomsmen sported classic black tuxedos.

The couple and their guests enjoyed a distinguished reception set throughout the property, surrounded by lush arrangements, lanterns, and candlelight, captured by the incomparable Jennifer Dery Photography and Taylor Films. As the Big Time Operator Band entertained during the festivities, guests dined on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine served from performance stations and grazing tables, artistically crafted by The Wild Thyme Company. The evening was filled with dancing and socializing, and at its end, Mariel and AJ were given a sparkler send-off to their undisclosed hotel in a white 1960 Rolls-Royce Cloud. Mariel and AJ spent their honeymoon in Europe, traveling around Italy and Croatia, and ending with a visit to Poland.