BRIDE WE LOVE: MEET SHANNON

One hiking mishap, two ceremonies, tons of travel, an adored Husky, and a proposal at the top of, wait for it, Dettifoss waterfall in Iceland. We wanted details, too, and then of course we had to share…

When Shannon, inspiring travel nurse, nature-lover and all-around beautiful woman, fell through a patch of ice on Lake Michigan, one leg submerged in the frigid water, she managed to catch herself just in time to hear Aaron, (her now husband!) say I love you for the first time. Needless to say, that’s when she knew she’d be marrying him. Always up for adventure, Aaron stuck by Shannon as she pursued her nursing career halfway across the country. They hiked together, traveled together, and supported each other—and their relationship grew and grew. In fact, Shannon introduced Aaron to his first national park. Now, their goal is to travel to each one as a couple, both here in the U.S. and overseas.

Ceremony #1:

Shannon and Aaron exchanged vows in an intimate outdoor ceremony over the summer, despite the uncertainty of the world around them. Shannon’s favorite part? Sharing the experience with their immediate family, closest friends, and beloved Husky, Kana.

The Dress

Shannon wore (and looked stunning in) our floral metallic fit-and-flare dress, “perfect,” she told us, for a small outdoor wedding. The dress is designed in lace with a just-right midi length. To make the look truly her own, Shannon added a belt from Etsy and a few favorite pieces of jewelry to highlight the neckline of the dress. We don’t need to tell you that she DIY’d all the wedding florals and boutonnieres. (Of course she did.)

The Sweetest Day

Shannon’s Supermom brought citrusy lemon cake and cupcakes for all. Lunch was an epic array of sandwiches. (For Ceremony 2, if you’re wondering, they’re planning a 4-tier wedding cake filled with strawberry, chocolate, and cookie butter. Save us a piece?)

Ceremony #2

The Theme

For these avid hikers, the wedding theme had to be national parks, with each table representing a different public land, plus park entry sign-inspired table markers! Naturally, Shannon will walk down the aisle to a song by the band, The National Parks. They’ll dance to Flightless Bird, American Mouth, by Iron & Wine.

The Setting

A state park in Oglesby, Illinois. Shannon and Aaron will renew their vows overlooking a river, surrounded by canyons, creeks and sunflower fields. The reception is planned at a stone lodge with a large fireplace. (Amazing.) Guests will be invited to stay at the lodge or set up camp onsite. Shannon and Aaron will spend their wedding weekend hiking with friends and family. Although Shannon was disappointed to postpone, she’s hoping that next year, many more of their loved ones will be able to attend.

What makes Shannon feel most beautiful? When Aaron says, eg elska big, which means “I love you” in Icelandic. Sounds to us like the happiest trails are ahead.