The story begins…
Kerri and Steve Young are more than just high school sweethearts, they are lifelong friends.
This couple has known each other since 5th grade and grew up as close friends. They had been a part of the same friend groups and shared common interests throughout their childhood. It wasn’t until their senior year in high school when Steve decided to make it official by sending a romantic text message to Kerri… over his Nokia phone.
At 17 the pair spent a weekend together in Avalon Beach with some friends. It was after this trip that Kerri and Steve knew their relationship was right. To this day, they still think of Avalon as their “happy place”.
The Proposal…
Given the couple’s ties to Avalon Beach, Steve knew that he couldn’t pop the question anywhere else. A summer’s worth of planning went into his picture-perfect proposal, and Steve successfully exceeded Kerri’s expectations.
- Kerri
It was a summer of waiting for Kerri who was eagerly anticipating a proposal after the two teachers went ring shopping right after school let out.
- Steve
The wait was worth it though as Steve seamlessly pulled off his extravagant plans.
Kerri, Steve, and the rest of his family were on vacation at their beloved Avalon Beach.
One afternoon, Steve asked Kerri to come with him to pick up a few more items needed for dinner. Reluctantly, Kerri agreed and left with Steve for the store. Unbeknownst to Kerri, Steve planned for her family to arrive at the beach house while they were gone to complete the surprise.
When the couple returned, Steve’s brother intercepted Kerri from entering the house by inviting the pair onto the jetty for a quick photo opt. She climbed the rocks and posed smiling, ready for pictures. Steve then got down on one knee as both Kerri and Steve’s family made their way out of the house to watch the proposal.
- Steve
A ten-month engagement was just enough time for Kerri to plan her dream wedding. Throwing a big party has always been a dream of Kerri’s and her organizing and planning skills were definitely put to good use. She planned all the décor herself, and with the help of Steve and her family, everything turned out perfectly.
- Kerri
The Big Day…
June 24th, 2016 couldn’t have been a better day for the couple to get married. Both being teachers, Kerri and Steve knew they wanted a summer wedding and a late afternoon reception was the perfect time to celebrate with 175 of their friends and family.
The couple chose the John James Audubon Center as the venue of their celebration. They visited the space as it was preparing for a different wedding and instantly fell in love. The inside/outside aspect of the space spoke to Kerri and Steve.
- Kerri
- Steve
With her uncle as the officiant, Kerri described their ceremony as quick and personal, just how they hoped it would be.
- Kerri
The party continued to add to the night’s perfection. Everyone absolutely loved the entertainment and the attention to detail during the reception.
One of Steve’s favorite parts about the day was having Steve’s Prince of Steaks truck come at the end of the reception.
- Steve
Ceremony venue: John James Audubon Center
Reception venue: John James Audubon Center
Wedding Planner: Kate Ibarra @John James Audubon Center
Caterer: Jeffrey Miller Catering
Cake/Bakery: Jeffrey Miller Catering
Photographer: Phillip Gabriel Photography ~ Gabe
https://philipgabriel.com/gallery/audubon-center/
Videographer: Be Films www.befilmsweddingcinema.com
Dress Shop/Dress Designer: Arielle Bridal in Ambler/ Essence of Australia
Bridal Accessories: Shoes~Badgley Mischka Jewelry~ Bracelet Nadri Earrings: something borrowed from my Matron of honor
Tuxedo Shop/Tuxedo Designer: Jos. A Bank ~ Navy Blue Suits
Hair/Makeup Artist: Hair: Prive Salon ~ Kathryn Picraux
http://www.privesalonps.com/bridalboutique/99i59hcrxtrwet8hu4ap4v0dn3p99e
Makeup: Dylan Michael Cosmetics ~ Cindy Singer
DJ/Band: Lovesick - Jon.
