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