Vivi Mai, 30, met Brenda Stevens, 27, in October 2006 when they were both studying at UC San Diego. Vivi played on the women’s ultimate Frisbee team, and when Brenda tried out to be a member, she offered to show her the ropes. As friends first, they continued to spend time together until they officially started dating in March. After seven years of dating (including a two-year engagement), Brenda and Vivi exchanged vows in front of friends and family in an intimate, rustic ceremony in Silverado Ranch.  —Katelyn Montero

May 11, 2013

The dresses

Vivi borrowed her dress from a friend while Brenda rented hers from L.A.’s One Night Affair. However, when Brenda’s was altered incorrectly, she and her mom had to spend the Friday before the big day driving to L.A. to have it fixed. “So she got off easy on the pre- wedding setup,” jokes Vivi.

Backyard Wedding

“The rustic ranch was a blank canvas that we were able to transform into what felt like our very own backyard,” says Vivi. They went for a subtle color palette, decorating with burlap and white linens, and accenting the space with bright colors.

Without a Wedding Planner

Bride Vivi and her maid of honor, Cheyanne Sammons, worked together to plan the big day.

Sit Back and Relax

Vivi and Brenda wanted to create an environment where both they and their guests could relax and enjoy the day. The couple set up corn hole, suzi sticks, croquet, and a photo booth.

Brewed by Brides

The brides and their bridesmaids had pitched in to homebrew the beer that was served, along with a cheese and charcuterie spread and tray-passed apps, during their cocktail hour.

Song Choices

The aisle music was “North” and “Love Like a Sunset Part 2,” both by the band Phoenix. Their first dance was to “Little Moments” by Brad Paisley. Neither bride claims to be a dancer so they laughed their way through it.

A Competitive Edge

“When it came time for the bouquet toss, the competitive nature of our ultimate Frisbee friends came to the forefront,” says the couple. “Lights were shattered, hearts were broken, and only two came away with the prize.”

THEIR TALENTED TEAM

Coordination: Cheyanne Sammons and Vivi Mai, bride
Photography: The Hearts Haven
Photo Assistant: Ashley Kelemen
Ceremony and Reception: Private Residence, Silverado Ranch
Florals: Purchased at Carlsbad Wholesale Flower Market
Catering: The Vetted Table
Hair and Makeup: Kenzy Ward
DJ: DJ Lady Sha
Officiant: Dr. Abner Boles
Decor: Provided by friends and family
Lighting: Chuck Mai, bride’s father
Rentals: Angeles Party Rentals
Cakes: Jaime Wood, Kim Ly, Carlsbad French Pastry Café
Photo Booth: Rocket Booths