Jess and Paul: A French Summer Soirée

Jess and Paul’s love story began in French 101 at the University of Illinois, and later, the couple rekindled on Tinder in 2014, leading to a heartfelt proposal on the Waihe'e Ridge trail in Maui. Their September 2023 wedding in France, was inspired by their love for European experiences and blended traditional Filipino rites to create a celebration that was uniquely them.

Photographer Elise Morgan | Location Les Molières, France

“To us, marriage is a partnership that strives for a future that's greater than the sum of its parts. To love and respect one another for who they are while encouraging growth both individually and together.”

How and when did you meet?

We met in French 101 at the University of Illinois in Fall of 2007. We were friendly in class and connected on Facebook, but didn't see each other again until we recognised each other on Tinder in 2014. 

Tell us a little about that first time you met…

Our first date was the day after Christmas at a cocktail bar in Chicago. At the time, Jess was living in Minneapolis and in town visiting family. With busy holiday schedules and little desire for a long distance relationship, we were both hesitant to meet up. Luckily we did; we were up until 4am talking and spent 6 of the next 7 days together. 

What was the first thing you noticed about each other?

For Paul, it was Jess' energy and that he immediately put him at ease.

For Jess, it was Paul's eyes and his calming demeanor.

Tell us about the standout moments in your relationship…

Successfully navigating a year and a half of long distance between Chicago and Minneapolis, followed by a year of longer distance between Chicago and Austin, and finally moving in together in Chicago in 2017. 

Our travel adventures hiking in the Pacific Northwest, wine tasting in Sonoma and Napa, skiing in New Mexico, attending dozens (and dozens) of weddings, and eating and drinking our way through Europe.

Losing Paul's beloved cat Lemon, and adopting two sweet kittens together - Max and Wednesday.

Most recently, in addition to getting married in 2023, we packed up our apartment in Chicago and started a new journey together in Atlanta. 

What does marriage mean to you?

To us, marriage is a partnership that strives for a future that's greater than the sum of its parts. To love and respect one another for who they are while encouraging growth both individually and together.

Who proposed and how?

We always talked about mutually agreeing on a time to get married. But when Paul surprised Jess with a trip to Maui, he couldn't pass up the opportunity. Paul proposed with a Love Bracelet and a half bottle of champagne at the summit of a hike on the Waihe'e Ridge trail.

When did you get married?

Friday, September 8th, 2023.

Jess and Paul’s story continues below ↓

What was the main influence behind your wedding day?

Our favorite way to spend time with friends and family is at the dinner table. We prioritized our food and drink offerings and went for a simple, refined aesthetic that felt upscale yet comfortable and welcoming.

What was the most important thing to you surrounding your wedding? 

Being surrounded by our closest friends and family and sharing our favorite European experiences with them was our most important goal. We knew how big an ask it was to travel so far for us, so we wanted to provide an inviting atmosphere that still felt unique and special for our guests coming from around the world. 

Did you incorporate any family sentiments or traditions?

We included traditional Filipino rites into our ceremony. Family members presented us with a lace veil, a silk cord, lit candles, and coins, all symbolizing elements of a strong bonded marriage.

Where did you find the bulk of your inspiration?

We chose France as our destination for many reasons, not the least of which was the effortless elegance it provides. Our venue fit our aesthetic perfectly and our planners were able to draw from its rustic yet curated palate.

How did you choose your suppliers? 

We stumbled upon our venue through many hours of internet searches in preparation for our venue scouting trip in 2022. All of our vendors were trusted partners of the venue and our resourceful planners.

What was the most difficult thing about planning your wedding?

The seven hour time difference between France and the US and learning and incorporating French wedding standards (three hour cocktail reception and dancing until 4am!)

Where did you spend your honeymoon?

The week following our wedding we drove from Paris through Bordeaux to the low-key surf town of Biarritz in southwest France

Any advice for other couples planning their day and finding it difficult to navigate the journey?

It's your day - slow down and refocus on what matters to you. Your guests are coming to celebrate you. They won't notice if the candles were off by a shade.

Jess and Paul’s Team

Wedding Planner Daylove Event

Photographer Elise Morgan

Celebrant Haley Phillips, close friend of the grooms

Venue Domaine de Quincampoix

Florist Linda Champenois Floral & Design

Caterer Fantaisy Traiteur

Lights Lily's Prod

Furniture Maison Options France

Live Painting Artist Miyuka Schipfer

Wedding Cake Synie's Paris

Musician Anastasia Chudo

Transportation Transfer Premium

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