An Elegant Fort Wayne Celebration with a Whimsical Charm: The Real Wedding of Elizabeth and Sam Dinnin

Despite first meeting at Indiana University, Elizabeth and Sam didn't become a couple until after they graduated and Sam moved to Chicago. When they spent the whole weekend together in Jacksonville, Florida when the Hoosiers competed in the Gator Bowl in 2020, Elizabeth and Sam decided to start dating. "After a few years of dating, surviving the COVID lockdowns and navigating our personal and professional lives together in Chicago, I decided that I wanted to take my commitment to Elizabeth to the next level and made the decision to propose," Sam shares. While they were out at a happy hour across from their apartment, Elizabeth's sisters decorated the apartment with rose petals and candles for Sam's proposal when Sam and Elizabeth returned!
 

Look at how stunning Elizabeth is in that gorgeous gown! "Living in Chicago, I went dress shopping way too many times, but it was so much fun!" Elizabeth admits. "I knew I wanted all the extra sparkles and frills on a dress, not a simple one." Even though she found herself stuck between two options, we absolutely LOVE the dress she chose. From the lacy bows on her shoulders to the floral details throughout the dress, this gown has it all. We especially love how Vilma Maria Photographer captured the elegance of the flower details in every shot she took!
 

Elizabeth followed numerous wedding Instagram accounts to get plenty of inspiration for her planning. The advice from her sister, friends, sister-in-law and mom all came in handy as well while planning their colorful, elegant spring wedding. When it came time to begin, Elizabeth knew exactly where to start! "I immediately started calling all the vendors I knew I wanted," Elizabeth explains. "Once we nailed down the date for the church and venue, I felt much better."

Speaking of vendors, Elizabeth and Sam picked the ones to help make their day the best it could be due to recommendations from couples who were already married. And, the results were flawless! Elizabeth raves, "I have no regrets. Just wish it didn’t go by so fast! The day was amazing and went as planned." One of our favorite vendors is the incredible team at Burns Event Rentals and their impressive decor inventory. The light colors and elegant touches throughout the reception space elevate this classic wedding with a whimsical charm!
 

 

What we Love

To let their personalities shine, Elizabeth and Sam incorporated plenty of personal touches throughout their day. The happy couple included custom drink koozies, table numbers with their pictures and a monogram overlay for the dance floor that was such an elegant touch! They included their guests in their personalization, too. "Our menus had all our guests' names on them, so each place setting was customized," Elizabeth gushes.
 

 

Advice from the Couple

Elizabeth and Sam advise, "Whatever chaos happens in the planning process, it is the best day of your life so really try not to stress too much over the small things. Focus on the big picture and go with your gut!"
 

 

 

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