When Erica and Jesse walked through the door, they knew immediately that they were finally in the right place. The perfect blend of industrial and nature was exactly what they were looking for in a venue. Plus, everything about the converted auto body shop was unique and beautiful. They couldn’t wait to host their wedding at The Smog Shoppe.

Erica and Jesse met in high school Spanish class. Jesse and his friends were so disruptive during class that they were separated. Lucky for all of us, Jesse was seated in front of Erica. They started as friends but began dating a year later. They went off to college and then their separate ways for a few years but never lost touch.  Finally, push came to shove, and Jesse moved to California to be with Erica.  A few years later, on a trip to Paris, he proposed in front of the Louvre.

Erica’s first dress was Blush by Hayley Paige's "Pepper Gown" with Floral print shoes. Her necklace was the first gift Jesse ever got her in high school- a horseshoe necklace. Perfection.

We love Eric'a’s daisy flower crown - so simple and stunning! Jesse’s suit was a Klien Epstein & Parker custom suit they chose together, with special custom lining.

Erica loved that she looked like herself, and Jesse said the dress was what he always imagined. It was important to her to look glamorous, but she also stayed true to her, so Erica opted for nothing too heavy for makeup and ethereal hair. Her bridesmaids wore Show Me Your MuMu dresses, and she had fun choosing their looks and personalizing them for them. Following her lead, they were fresh-faced but with bold lips. To top it off, Erica had her sister wear a floral headpiece, a running joke from their childhood.

Erica focused on floral prints to create a botanical-chic theme. The beautiful exterior of The Smog Shoppe perfectly combines nature and industry. She added a bit of whimsy to the ceremony with bubbles and colorful leis for the officiants.

Processional
”Hard To Concentrate” by The Red Hot Chili Peppers (no lyrics)

Our two best friends did our ceremony: David, Jesse’s best friend from sleepaway camp, and  Ellie, my best friend from college. I asked them to incorporate a few Jewish elements to represent Jesse’s upbringing, and Ellie recited a poem about dinosaurs—which is cool because who doesn’t love dinosaurs? - Erica

Recessional
”Hard To Concentrate” by The Red Hot Chili Peppers (with lyrics)

The most important thing to Erica and Jesse was that our day felt like “them”. They aren’t very traditional and don’t believe in doing things just for the sake of doing them. They wanted to feel like they were having a fun time with their friends and family, and honestly, who doesn’t love that feeling?

The florist, Gingersnap Florals, was given no rules except to make it look like spring and boy, did she deliver! The centerpieces were stunning works of art.

Because their family and friends are mostly spread out across the country and not nearby, the most memorable part of the day for Erica and Jesse was being able to celebrate with all these people they love from different parts of their lives, all in the same place at the same time.

First Dance
“Do You Realize?” by The Flaming Lips

Erica’s second dress Stone Cold Fox "Evelyn Gown," with a vintage mink stole Erica found in college. Plus, a fresh reception Flower Crown! They also booked a band they LOVE to see perform for their reception, creating an epic concert-dance party.

Erica and Jesse’s advice to anyone planning today is that, first and foremost, it’s a party, and you should just let loose and have fun. Do what you want—don’t let anyone try to influence your day. On the day of, don’t worry about the details; make sure you have people to help you so you can sit back and relax. 

Photographer: Mandee Johnson Photography • Wedding Planner + Design: So Smitten Events • Florals: Ginger Snap Florals • Venue: The SmogShoppe • Hair + Makeup: Kurfriend by Kat and Meg O’Hare • Wedding Dress: Hayley Paige • Reception Dress: Stone Cold Fox • Suit: Klien Epstein & Parker • Catering: Little Nelly • Cake: Sweet Lady Jane • Band: Black Crystal Wolf Kid