Colleen + Patrick

How did you meet?

We went to the same small college (only about 1,200 kids) in Iowa, USA but we never met there even though we had a lot of mutual friends. It wasn’t until three years after graduating that we met at a random bar with a bunch of alumni. We were singing the Queen song, Bohemian Rhapsody, together and the rest is history.

When did you know they were the one?

I lost my brother unexpectedly in February 2019 and we were only seeing each other for about five months by that time. He stayed with me at the hospital for four days and made sure my family and I had everything we needed to get through those awful days. I knew after that tragedy, that he was the one. He’s stuck with me ever since.

What are your three favourite attributes of your partner?

Relationship with his family – from the beginning, I knew how important his family was to him. Watching him interact with his parents showed me that I wanted to have a family of our own with him.
Hard working – he continued on with his education after school to ensure that he could get the best possible job. Since then, he has been dedicated to making sure he continues to move up in his company and is always the first one to offer assistance to anyone.
Patience – at times, I lack this and he is always there to calm me down and reassure that things will work out.

Who proposed and how?

Patrick proposed in front of the Adler Planetarium, a public museum dedicated to the study of astronomy and astrophysics. My brother who passed loved all things space and we would go to the Adler every year for his birthday. We ended up scattering his ashes near there and Patrick proposed in that same spot.

Where did you fall in love with your dress and why?

INSTAGRAM! I saw Ryder come up on my Explore Page about two months after getting engaged and knew I wanted to try it on. I found a boutique about 45 minutes away from my house (luckily). I tried it on and fell in love instantly. It was the first wedding dress I ever tried on. I tried on six other Made With Love dresses, but I knew I found the perfect one.

What was the best moment for you at your wedding?

When we got to our venue, we had appetizers and drinks waiting in a private room. It was the first time since saying ‘I Do’ that we actually got to be alone and just enjoy each other for 15 minutes before the craziness of the reception started. It was nice to sit and talk about the day so far. He asked me questions about my dress and how I was feeling. We were able to check in with each other and enjoy each other’s company. It was perfect.

What were your favourite details?

My favorite details were my ‘somethings’
Something Old: My grandmother’s wedding ring that every granddaughter has worn on her wedding day. I was number five to wear this.
Something New: The most perfect wedding dress
Something Borrowed: A bracelet my mother-in-law bought on her honeymoon
Something Blue: I took the blue dress shirt my brother who passed away wore to my other brother’s wedding and had a piece of it sewn into the bottom of the dress in the shape of a heart

What advice would you tell other brides?

For me, it was don’t sweat the small stuff. I know that is said time and time again, but those little details don’t mean too much. I couldn’t tell you about them during the night. I was swept away in the magic of the evening.

Any standout vendors?

Our venue (Walden) was incredible. From beginning to end they made the day a breeze. We had two of the best wedding planners that knew everything that needed to happen, and when. We couldn’t have asked for a better place to celebrate with our family and friends.