Some love stories unfold slowly. Others arrive with a certainty that feels undeniable from the very beginning.
For Lauren and Dustin, what started as a Hinge match quickly became something neither of them could ignore. Within weeks they were inseparable, and less than two years later they gathered their closest family and friends beneath the oak trees of Calamigos Ranch to celebrate the beginning of their marriage.
Their August brunch wedding blended whimsical garden-inspired details, meaningful family tributes, abundant florals, and a relaxed atmosphere that perfectly reflected their relationship. From a ceremony framed by towering trees and a lush floral arch to carousel rides, fresh pastries, and an unforgettable musical performance by the groom himself, every moment felt joyful, intentional, and deeply personal.
“When love feels this easy, every detail falls beautifully into place.”
How did you two meet? What were your first impressions of one another?
Dustin and I met on Hinge! I had just gotten on the apps and he was about to get off of the apps to focus on starting Law School. We matched and went out to dinner in Culver City in July 2023. Dustin first noticed my smile- he says that when I smiled when we sat down at the restaurant he felt at ease.
My first impression of Dustin was that he was so genuine, kind, and easy to talk to. We were in a relationship within the next couple of weeks, moved in together in March, and were engaged the following July. Both of us knew we found our person from very early on.
Only three weeks into dating we went on a trip together in Ojai. While on a hike we stopped and sat on a large boulder looking out on Ojai- and a bee stung me on my nose. It was a VERY memorable moment. In July of the following year we went back to Ojai, went on the same hike, and Dustin proposed on the same boulder. We plan on going back to Ojai every year and hiking to that boulder.
Tell us a funny story relating to your wedding day or relationship!
Dustin singing a song to me! Dustin sang “Wondering Why” by The Red Clay Strays and it was incredible.
Dustin and I took the time after eating (we made sure we ate) to say hi to people who came. Having less people allowed us to do that which was great.
Describe a hurdle you had to overcome in your relationship or during your wedding planning.
It was a very gray morning- which seemed weird for August. Right before the ceremony the sun came out and I walked down the aisle to “This Will Be Our Year” by the Zombies.
Any special ways you incorporated your family or family history into your wedding day?
We created bags for people to take home cookies on Zazzle- we put photos of our cats (Mookie and Freddie) on these and wrote “thank you for celebrating our humans”.
I (Lauren) also had a photo of my father who passed away on a chair in the front row of the ceremony. My sister (the maid of honor) put a white rose on the chair when she walked down the aisle.
The flower arch that framed our ceremony was incredible.
What part of your wedding day was/is most important to you?
I (Lauren) grew up in Topanga Canyon. I wanted to incorporate nature into our wedding. I love the Santa Monica mountains and feel such peace there.
I was interested in a “whimsical/wildflower” theme that focused on flowers for decoration. The color palette was sage green (my favorite color), light blue, pink, and orange- colors you could find in my bouquet.
What was your favorite part about planning your wedding?
We chose to have a brunch wedding which neither of us had been to. It was a great decision- amazing brunch food and we got to chill and eat room service together that night.
If you had one piece of advice for other couples, what would it be?
Try to enjoy the process. Ask all the questions you have. Stay present- this is a really special time and when it’s over it’s over. Listen to your intuition and focus on all of the enjoyable moments.
A Morning Celebration Full of Meaning
Set among the Santa Monica Mountains, Lauren and Dustin’s wedding embraced the beauty of nature and the ease of a daytime celebration. Guests arrived through a dramatic stone aisle framed by two towering trees before gathering beneath a lush floral installation overflowing with seasonal blooms.
After exchanging vows, the celebration continued beneath cascading twinkle lights and hanging branches, where guests enjoyed fresh pastries, abundant brunch fare, and a relaxed atmosphere that encouraged meaningful connection.
One of the most memorable moments came when Dustin surprised Lauren by performing “Wondering Why” by The Red Clay Strays. It was a heartfelt gesture that perfectly captured the joy and sincerity that defined the entire day.
The celebration concluded with one final whimsical touch—take-home cookie bags adorned with photos of their beloved cats, Mookie and Freddie, and the words, “Thank you for celebrating our humans.”
Planning: Kindred Weddings and Events / @kindredwedevents
Photography: Lisa Leanne Photography / @lisaleannephotography
Venue + Catering: Calamigos Ranch / @calamigosevents
DJ: KJM Productions / @kjmproductions
Florist: Dogwood Florals / @dogwood.florals
Tabletop Rentals: Soiree 8 / @soiree8
Favors: Zazzle / @zazzle
Signage: Etsy / @etsy
Cake + Dessert: Susie Cakes / @susiecakesbakery
Hair + Makeup: Emily Lynn & Co. / @emilylynnandcompany
Dress Designer: Suzanne Neville / @suzanneneville
Dress Boutique: En Blanc / @enblanc_la
Tuxedo: Vera Wang / @verawanggang
Transportation: Ritz Transportation / @ritztransportation
Publisher at The White Wren and Bajan Wed, Award Winning Photography + Videographer at Live View Studios, Dad, 80s music lover, crunchy health advocate
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