Kali Kirk first noticed Matt Passiglia dancing aboard a harbor cruise during their freshmen orientation week at University of San Diego. Kali was intrigued by his “goofy dance moves” and the two soon began going out. After nearly 13 years of dating and being dubbed the “Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn” of their friend group, Kali and Matt finally decided to tie the knot. They visited 17 different venues before finding The Emma Estate in Rancho Santa Fe. Kali and her uncle, who married the couple, wrote the entire ceremony, and Kali’s sister performed an original poem. But it was Matt’s vows that she’ll always remember. “They were incredibly heartfelt and witty,” says Kali. “He made me burst out laughing and brought tears to my eyes.” To say the least, it was worth the wait.  —Brooke Renna

The Emma Estate

Photography by Swoon by Katie, September 1, 2012

SOMETHING OLD

Kali’s mom presented her with a cameo that had belonged to her great-grandmother. Hannah, the florist, used a silk ribbon and tied it onto the bouquet.

LAST-MINUTE TOUCHES

Twenty minutes before the ceremony, Kali’s best friend created the headpiece Kali wore with pieces of her wedding dress that she’d saved after alterations. The initial piece had been ordered from Canada but arrived in the wrong color.

THE DRESS

Prior to Matt’s proposal, Kali had looked through bridal magazines and came across a Vera Wang gown that, she says, took her breath away. After trying on more than 60 dresses, Kali still chose the Vera Wang dress that she had seen in the magazine.

DIY TOUCHES

Kali’s best friend also made the cupcake display and the video guest book, where guests were able to choose from a variety of questions written on chalkboards and then answer on video.

STAR WARS

Both the bride and groom love Star Wars. Matt had Obi Wan Kenobi serve as his boutonniere, which gave him the power of the Force. The couple then entered the reception to the “Throne Room” theme song from A New Hope. To top it off, figurines of Han Solo, Princess Leia, and Chewbacca (representing the couple’s furry companion Lola) served as the cake toppers.

GET THEIR STYLE

•  Day-of coordination: Julia Maushart
• Photography: Swoon by Katie
• Ceremony and Reception: The Emma Estate in Rancho Santa Fe
• Florals: Modern Bouquet
• Catering: Greg DeMichiel
• Music: Colli Elliott, Still Listening Productions
• Gown: Vera Wang
• Shoes: Prada
• Earrings: Kate Spade
• Hair: Glam Dolls
• Makeup: Jennifer Springer
• Transportation: San Diego Charter, Inc.