Hilton San Diego Wedding

What could be more romantic than filling your wedding day with subtle nods to how you and your love met? In Minh and Jimmy’s case, the two met while working at a small tea shop in California, so they added darling details like a tea bag seating chart and glass teapot centerpieces. Thanks to Sarina Love Photography, Bzzy Bee, and Isari Flower Studio for sharing your work on this one!

From the bride, Minh: This love story started when I was an undergrad trying to pay for tuition and books, and all I wanted from a job was the paycheck. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would meet my future husband at a small tea shop in San Jose, CA. Jimmy and I hit it off instantly, and although we were both diligently pursuing our degrees, work was always something we looked forward to, which can be a rarity in the retail world. It was only a matter of time until we were a couple, and without realizing it, months turned into years, and our relationship evolved so much more than boyfriend/girlfriend. Not only did I get that paycheck, but I left with so much more, my soul mate. When Jimmy popped the question, a rush of excitement came over me. Not only would I be spending the rest of my life with the love of my life, but I was so excited to jump feet first into wedding planning. I can’t say that we had an immediate vision of what our special day would be like, but we both knew that we wanted it to be fun, easygoing and very “us.”

Bouquet recipe: Ranunculus, chamomile, poppies and field flowers.

Enter Y-Co Nguyen-Viveros and her fabulous team at Bzzy Bee. We were having a hard time settling on a theme for our wedding and Y-Co suggested that we start from the very beginning. With that suggestion, I had what Oprah would call an “Ah Hah!” moment and Y-Co and I started planning our tea themed wedding. From there, the ideas started rolling in and we found cute ways to incorporate our theme without over-steeping our guests in tea. As a long time crafter (just call me Minh-tha Stewart), I jumped at the opportunity to make our table numbers and origami tea bag escort cards. The overall look showcased many handcrafted elements that were beautifully contrasted by rustic, simple surroundings.

At the forefront of the color palette was a bright tangerine, supported by soft neutrals of light grey, mint and burlap. Our tables were dressed simply but elegantly with ivory linens, with a custom Mad Lib at each setting. On top of the burlap and lace runner sat whimsical floral arrangements designed by Isari Flower Studio. The florals were displayed in tea tins that Jimmy and I had collected from our friends and family, we love up-cycling! To complete our centerpiece, we purchased glass teapots and tea blossoms from the store in which it all began, they doubled as keepsakes that our guests loved. I also made an orange and white feather lei that I wore during the hula. It was always a dream of mine to make and present my husband with a feather lei on our wedding day. The lei itself is made from over 2000 individual feathers, but contains my hopes/dreams for our future and, above all, my love.

Any advice for couples planning their weddings now? 1. At the very least hire a day of coordinator for your big day! Ours played an instrumental role in the execution of our wedding, it was the best day of our lives! 2. Have faith that everything will work out and take time to soak it all in. It was thrilling to see all the work we put into the wedding come finally come together, it was all worth it!

See Also

A Tuscan Inspired Wedding with Pastel Hues at California’s Filoli Gardens

Wedding Music:
Bridal Party Processional: “A Thousand Years,” Christina Perri
Bride’s Processional: “At Last,” Etta James
Recessional: “Marry You,” Bruno Mars
First Dance: “A Little Less Conversation,” Elvis

Wedding Location: San Diego, CA / Photographer: Sarina Love Photography / Event Design and Planning: Bzzy Bee / Flowers: Isari Flower Studio / Venue and Caterer: Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa / Wedding Dress and Veil: Nicole Miller via Nordstrom / Hair and Makeup: Susie Chhuor Studios / Wedding Shoes: Tory Burch via Neiman Marcus / Bridal Belt: DIY by bridesmaid & her mother / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Donna Morgan / Bride and Bridesmaid Robes: ComfyClothing / Groom’s Suit: Hugo Boss / Groomsmen Suits: Jos A Bank / Wedding Cake: Flour Power / DJ: Playtime Attractions / Officiant: Mary Bowerman / Photobooth: Pixster / Wedding Invitations: Minted