The Meet Cute : Early 2020 in Philadelphia , Pennsylvania , Ryan was walking his dog , and Jessica was getting a drink with a mutual friend . When they ran into each other , the friend introduced Ryan and Jessica before all three of them walked to Rittenhouse Square Park to enjoy a bottle of wine .
The Engagement : Ryan asked Jessica , co-leader of a run club , to take one particular night off in April 2023 . Before heading off to their wine tasting at A . Kitchen in Philly , they took their dog , Zucchini , for a walk through Rittenhouse Square Park . At the center of the square — where they had shared a bottle of wine years ago — Ryan got down on one knee . After Jessica said “ Yes ,” they arrived at A . Kitchen , where Ryan had organized a specialty menu for them .
The Morning Of : Run coach Jessica knew a 5K on the day of their wedding would start the special day off with a bang . The run was also a creative way for the pair to get more quality time with their guests . “ In my regular life , my favorite days are the ones that I get to run easy miles with friends ,” Jessica says .
The Outfits : Jessica and Ryan wanted their wedding ’ s sunset color palette — displayed in the bridesmaids ’ dresses , florals and invitation suite — to represent how they perceive themselves as a couple : “ Fun , vibrant , bold and warm !” says Jessica . Later in the night , an outfit change for the newlyweds was in order . “ We both loved the idea of changing into something lighter and less formal ,” says Jessica . “ Our favorite color is orange , so we got orange shoes as a touch of fun .”
The Favors : The escort cards consisted of mini jars of pickles , hence the clever “ Dill death do us part ” signage . An avid runner , pickles are Jessica ’ s favorite snack , as they ’ re packed with electrolytes . Former chef Ryan also has an affinity for experimenting with brines . “ Our guests were using the pickle juice to make their own pickle martinis !” Jessica says .
August 31 , 2024
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The Highlights : Having their dog , Zucchini , as the flower girl with an adorable floral collar was one of Jessica and Ryan ’ s favorite aspects of the day . Not to mention the ice sculpture of Zucchini guarding the oyster tray . Regarding the entertainment , “ We had a DJ , but added a violinist and saxophone player for a live music element , which was epic !” says Jessica .
The Advice : “ Without a doubt — if your budget allows — get a wedding planner ,” says Jessica . “ Introduce a mindfulness practice into your everyday routine so when your big day arrives , it doesn ’ t feel like it flew by or that you missed anything . Presence is key .”
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