Vegan Love Stories: This Couple’s Garden Wedding Included an 8-Cake Set

INWhile busy with their studies at Duke University and the chaos of the pandemic, Jaelin and Austin found solace in each other. After connecting on the dating app Bumble, they talked for hours, even closing down a bar on their first date. “Because it was COVID, things happened pretty quickly, but there were a lot of green flags,” Austin recalled.

Years later, a roller-skating trip led to a surprise proposal, arranged with the help of loved ones. With Jaelin’s roots in Santa Barbara, her mother’s backyard became the idyllic setting for their cozy, 42-person celebration—a labor of love between friends and family.

Kristen Hammock

The wedding was truly a family affair, with loved ones contributing to nearly every detail. From Austin’s twin brother, who created the arch, to Jaelin’s family, who decorated the yard with lights, to the friends who steamed tablecloths in preparation for the big day, every detail exuded warmth and togetherness. Even their wedding team reflected their deep bond, from the caterer (Jaelin’s former elementary school cook) to the hair and makeup artist (Jaelin’s mother’s best friend).

“Everyone there was really connected to us – even the person who married us was one of our best friends,” Austin explained.

Kristen Hammock

RELATED: Vegan Love Stories: This Couple’s Goldendoodle Was a Ring Bearer in Their Stunning Desert-Inspired Wedding

The morning passed with the couple heading to the picturesque Santa Barbara courthouse with their closest family members. Back home, Jaelin’s younger brother sang and played guitar as her mother proudly walked her down the aisle.

As long-time vegan advocates, Jaelin and Austin prepared a lavish, animal-free feast for the reception, with the goal of introducing guests to the beauty of plant-based cuisine. Amid twinkling lights and paper lanterns, hearty laughter and dancing, Austin swept Jaelin off her feet, twirling her around on his shoulders and sealing their new adventure with a kiss.

Kristen Hammock

Decor

Jaelin’s mother’s backyard was transformed into a whimsical wonderland. Vibrant arrangements of bud vases transformed the space, complemented by the warm glow of bright string lights and paper lanterns, creating an enchanting atmosphere.

Kristen Hammock

Appearance

Seamstress Jaelin, a trusted family member for years, lent her expertise to the wedding preparations, even working on Jaelin’s mother’s prom dress. Working seamlessly together, she skillfully reworked the gown to perfection. In keeping with the timeless elegance of the bride’s gown, the groom chose a classic suit, striking contrast to the informal setting of the backyard and drawing attention to the couple’s sophisticated style.

Kristen Hammock

Music

The couple hadn’t yet decided on a first dance number, but Austin assured Jaelin not to worry by arranging a heartfelt surprise in the form of Death Cab for Cutie’s “I Will Follow You Into the Dark.” The song became the soundtrack to their early days together, thanks to their trusty smart home system. “For some reason, it kept playing that song. No matter what playlist we had, it always came up, so it just kind of became our song,” Austin explained. As the evening progressed, Jaelin’s brother, a seasoned wedding DJ, took over, providing a melodic backdrop for a night of joyful celebration.

Kristen Hammock

Personal touches

As the ceremony drew to a close, a live band playing trumpets enhanced the couple’s nuptials, announcing their union.

Kristen Hammock

Tips for the big day

“People love to give their opinions on what your wedding should look like, but do what makes you happy and have the wedding you want,” Jaelin said.

Kristen Hammock

Menu

Appetizers

Bite-sized wild mushroom toast
Gazpacho with peaches and basil

Kristen Hammock

Dinner

Vegetable Paella
Pickled cabbage shoots with peas and microgreen salad
Papas bravas with fresh pea shoots

Kristen Hammock

Dessert buffet

Assortment of cakes including chocolate silk, chocolate ganache, blueberry cheesecake, lemon chiffon, southern pecan, apple lime and strawberry cream, and vanilla sponge cake with coconut frosting

Aruka Sanchir (@ruukes) is a senior digital editor at VegNews.