There is nothing sweeter than marrying your best friend at a romantic, rustic barn venue in the county that you met the love of your life. Carmella and Michael had that exact experience, as they tied the knot at the charming Atascadero wedding venue Grace Maralyn Estate. Luckily, the vintage and romantic details were captured beautifully by the San Luis Obispo photographer Matrimony Media. I had the pleasure of interviewing the bride, Carmella, on her experience from the special day.

Keep scrolling to see her dreams come to life



Their Love Story

"Michael and I met while attending college at Cal Poly. I was roommates with his sister, Alex, so we became friends. We started hanging out more and more and eventually our relationship blossomed from friends to boyfriend and girlfriend. We spent about 4 years together before Michael proposed on Christmas Eve."



Color Palette

Light blue, navy and bright pops of pinks for the florals

The Details

"We were really excited about having the barn for the reception site and dancing. It was the perfect spot with the built in photo booth and bar right outside. Something else we were so excited about was the food, tacos! How can you go wrong?

The Theme

The venue mostly inspired our wedding theme. We knew we wanted a rustic/romantic theme and The Grace Maralyn Estate had just that feel. It was really important for us to have a place for our bridal party to stay together so the house on-site was perfect. We fell in love with the property as soon as we stepped foot onsite."



Memorable Moments

"My most memorable moment was seeing Michael as I walked down the aisle. I kept telling myself to walk slowly and take my time, Michael laughs because he said I power walked down that aisle so quickly. I was so excited to marry my best friend."



Knowing what you know now... what advice would you have for other brides planing their wedding?

"To hire a wedding coordinator! I don't know what I would've done without ours. Tracey at heart melting events was amazing and we are so so thankful we hired her. Best decision!"

What was the most challenging part about planning your wedding?


"Budgeting. Keep in mind you'll probably go over and really spend money where it means the most to you as a couple. Our photography/videography was one of the biggest splurges but the photos and video is all we have left from the day besides memories!"


A Rustic and Romantic Central Coast Wedding

A Rustic and Romantic Central Coast Wedding

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