As Hilary and Ronnie both work in TV production, it makes perfect sense that their wedding was inspired by one of their favourite shows. “I know 1920s themed weddings are really popular, but we were keen to avoid the ‘Gatsby’ look,” explained Hilary. “I really studied the set design on Peaky Blinders to get a rustic 1920s vintage look with the over the top glitz. We also really wanted our guests to have fun with costumes since we were getting married so close to Halloween, which is our favourite holiday.”

They paired rustic textures with jewel tones and a loose style of decorating while still incorporating more vintage pieces. “We wanted a more aged look as opposed to crisp,” said Hilary. As a graphic and jewellery designer that currently works in art department, Hilary knew early on there would be a LOT of DIY touches! 

“I knew in advance that this would be challenging so I made sure to start early and get help where I could. My sisters and I made around 80 faux mercury glass candle holders for the tables. I designed all the signage for the venue, in addition to all the stationery. Ronnie cut and sanded wood pieces for the table numbers and I stained them and applied vinyl numbers to them. In addition to making my own headpiece and earrings, I made earrings for the bridesmaids, headpieces for bridesmaids and flower girl, and boutonnieres for the guys. I got a lot of joy out of the projects and there weren’t any that I wish I would have spent the money on purchasing.”

They splashed out on catering – it was super important to the couple that everyone ate well. They made bank with their artificial flowers though, much to Hilary’s mother’s horror! “My mum is a florist and was pretty opposed to my approach but she finally gave in. I made all the bridesmaid bouquets and flower girl’s wand with high end yet affordable silk flowers from International Silk in Downtown Los Angeles, and my mum made my bouquet and the toss bouquet. Since all my bridesmaids were travelling from out of town, I wanted them to be able to take the bouquet home with them as a keepsake. I still have mine and it looks just as spectacular as it did the day of. My mum and I picked up all the fresh flowers and table runner ferns at the Flower Market in San Diego, and it was all hands on deck the day-of to get them into vases. I really loved how they all turned out. And I let my mum do a ‘proper’ floral arrangement for the welcome table since she couldn’t resist.”

They kept things in the family, so to speak, even further, with their good friend writing their vows and performing their ceremony. “She incorporated some quotes from The Princess Bride, which is one of our favourite movies, which was such a delightful surprise.  The ceremony was the part we were most nervous about (we just wanted to get to the party), so we were happy for some happy tears and some laughs, and for it to go smoothly!”

“Go with your gut and filter out the noise,” Hilary advises future couples. “Everyone is going to have advice and opinions about how your wedding should go. Just let it reflect yourself, pick your battles, and everything will be just fine.”