Real Wedding Wednesdays: Erin Darrah and KJ Johnsen

Erin and KJ Johnsen’s love story is a tall tale in its own right. The two met through a mutual friend who thought their tall heights would make them a “good match.” The couple’s fairytale romance grew over two and a half years and culminated in the ultimate Christmas present.

Surrounded by family, KJ popped the question after their Christmas dinner. “KJ went to get one last present, which I thought was for my parents—but it turned out to be an engagement ring for me!” Erin says. “It was so special having my family there for the proposal.”

Their picturesque proposal led to the fanciful ceremony that bore Erin’s favorite moment. “During our first look, we read each other the vows we had written through lots of tears and laughter,” she says. “Turns out that even though we wrote them separately, they were surprising[ly] similar!”

For a final touch, the newlyweds ended their ceremony with a beautiful balloon send-off as they exited the church.

The Details

Wedding date: November 17, 2018

Wedding colors: Black and gold

Attendants: Three bridesmaids and five groomsmen

Bride wore: A Hayley Paige gown and a veil from La Jeune Mariee, shoes from Macy’s and personal accessories

Hair and makeup: Penzone Salons + Spas

Groom wore: Suit from Men’s Wearhouse

Rings: Diamond Cellar

Bridesmaids wore: Gowns from Gilded Social

Groomsmen wore: Suits from Men’s Wearhouse

Rehearsal dinner: Third & Hollywood

Ceremony: Trinity Episcopal Church

Reception: Le Meridien Columbus, The Joseph

Caterer: The Guild House

Rentals: Event Source

Cake: The Suisse Shop Bakery

Florist: Brian Coovert Floral Design

Photographer: Style & Story

Videographer: Prodigy Cinema

Invitations: Avant-Garde Impressions

Reception tunes: Tommy Nutter presents Diamond Entertainment

Guest favors: Godiva chocolates

Registries: Macy’s, Crate & Barrel and HoneymoonWishes.com

Guests stayed at: Hampton Inn & Suites Columbus-Downtown and Le Meridien Columbus, The Joseph

Sunday brunch: Erin’s parents’ home

Honeymoon: Calabash Cove Resort & Spa in St. Lucia