Emily Freeman (@emilyfreemancoaching) had been searching for her Prince Charming for as long as she could remember, and her heart was open since her first preschool boyfriend. After years of searching, she matched with Michael Liguori (@mike.liguori) on Bumble, and the two felt a connection instantly. "Soon, being apart felt unnatural," Emily reflects on their journey which led to Mike getting down on one knee in grand fashion at the Wrigley Mansion in February of 2023, to which Emily was so excited she forgot to say "yes."
The happy couple infused their wedding day with intentionality, beginning with soothing sound bowls in the bridal suite played by their friend and sound healer, Sam Harper. Following the peaceful morning, the day gained momentum with the Brothers Martens arriving to artfully capture the day. Emily exuded romantic elegance, her grand gown glowing in the sun, the botanical appliques echoing the lavish ivory florals gracing the grounds of L'Auberge de Sedona.
Pairs of great blue herons, crows, and a bald eagle soared over their scenic ceremony, as their friend and spiritual guide called on Emily and Mike's relatives in heaven to bless their rings."Full-body chills overtook me as Mike pulled me in for our first kiss as husband and wife," Emily reminisced, grateful for her partner's grounding energy in such a surreal moment amidst the opulence of their wedding day. The reception featured an abundance of lush white roses and greenery accented by neutral tones. Guests sipped champagne and watched with misty eyes as Mike and Emily shared their first dance to "Joy of My Life" by Chris Stapleton.
The newlyweds changed into chic outfits after the customary cake cutting, Emily donning a playful mini dress and Mike sporting a custom white dinner jacket. A packed dance floor punctuated the evening, with DJ Brian Witlin playing a lively silent disco into the night. Mike and Emily ended their first evening as husband and wife with rose petals, chocolate covered strawberries and slices of cake in bed.
Reflecting in awe at how perfectly they were able to celebrate their love, Emily says, "'Happily ever after' looks different for everyone, but for me, it’s having someone who knows me better than I know myself, loves me for my gifts and quirks, and stands by my side no matter what. That’s my happily ever after."
