This couple’s wedding filled The Monday Club of San Luis Obispo with so much joy—you can feel the positive energy radiating from the photos taken by talented SBWS member Renoda Campbell.

The couple, Kate and Deryk, selected bright, yellow sunflowers as the star of their floral arrangements and Flowers by Denise went above and beyond by pairing them with other blue and white selections. The bride wore a long-sleeve lace gown from Epiphany Boutique while her bridesmaids wore long dark green dresses. The groom was dressed by Calvin Klein and matched his groomsmen in dark blue.

Rolling hills were painted in the background as the couple were married by officiant Paul Howell of Marriage with Meaning. At the reception, Taste! Craft Eatery provided a wedding night meal, and as a fun surprise the couple selected a cookie cake from Cowboy Cookie in lieu of a traditional wedding cake.

The bride and groom also shared a few additional details with SBWS about their charming love story and what makes them unique as a couple:

Q - How did the two of you meet?
A - We met when we were both a part of the swing dancing club (CP Swing) at Cal Poly! Derek was a senior, and Kate was a freshman. After Derek graduated that spring and moved to the Bay Area for his job, we did long distance for 2 years, driving to see each other every weekend and trading off who would drive. Now, the pandemic has allowed us to stay in SLO and enjoy being together!

Q - How did you get engaged? Where were you? Who proposed? Did you both propose?
A - We had talked about a proposal about a year before it happened, and we were very much on the same page, but Kate was not told when or how. Derek proposed on May 17th, 2020 while at the top of the Rocky Ridge in San Luis, and that evening we celebrated our engagement and Derek's birthday (the 18th) with family and pineapple upside down cake...it was a great day!

Marryer #1: What do you love most about Marryer #2?
I love that I feel my most comfortable when I'm around Derek. I'm an introvert, but I never feel like I need time away from Derek to recharge. He's my happy place!

Q - Marryer #2: What do you love most about Marryer #1?
A - I love that Kate brings a happy energy to our relationship. Her positive attitude makes me smile and lifts me up.

Q - What is your favorite activity to do together?
A - Swing dancing! Lindy hop, Charleston, Balboa...we're looking forward to being able to go out social dancing again. We used to dance every Monday night at the Madonna Inn, and it will be a happy day when we are able to do so once again!

Q - Where is your favorite place to go together?
A - Any national park! We love seeing new parks, and revisiting our favorites.

Q - Where is your dream destination?
A - Ireland :) The honeymoon awaits...