This David’s Bridal real wedding tells the heartwarming story of Emily Rodriguez and Brian Yoannon, whose love began with a meet-cute in high school gym class and grew into a lifelong bond. “It always felt like we were already married in our heads,” Emily shares. So, when Brian proposed on Christmas Day at the breathtaking Glassy Mountain Chapel, it was an easy “yes”—a moment straight out of a fairy tale.
“He made a whole adventure booklet of all our favorite memories and travel photos. Then after reading the adventure booklet, he was down on one knee. That day was absolutely the best!”
That is, until the big day. They were married on May 13, 2023, at Aurora Farms in Greenville, SC, surrounded by their closest friends and family.
Q: Tell us about your wedding day!
A: It was such a wonderful and stress-free experience! Our vows to each other were so special. We had all of our close family and friends, and it looked like a real-life fairytale. We even had a light up willow tree in the back. I will never forget it!
Q: How did you avoid wedding stress?
A: I just had the mindset of “whatever happens, and I just have to go with the flow and make light of anything that happens.” and that really got me through.
Q: What was your favorite DIY or personal touch?
A: We had games at each table and stuff to do for the guests. We also had a phone where people can call in and leave a voicemail about their experience and well wishes. We have all the voicemails till this day!
Q: What was the most memorable moment of the day?
A: I think one of the best highlights is taking pictures with our bridal party and our dance under the willow tree at night at the very end. Some of my favorite memories forever.
Emily’s Galina Signature gown featured nearly 3,000 pieces of beading and sequins and over fifteen yards of tulle with eight skirt godets to make up the full A-line silhouette, perfectly balancing the sexy illusion bodice.
Q: What was your favorite detail about your look?
A: My favorite detail was the corset of my dress and all the beading, [and] of course the back is very beautiful!
Q: How did you feel when you knew you found the one?
A: There was not a doubt in my mind, it felt as if the dress specifically made for me.
Q: Do you have any shopping advice for future brides?
A: Start early! The earlier you shop the more stress-free it is for alterations and getting everything on time.
Emily and Brian’s love story is proof that the best weddings aren’t just about perfect details—they’re about the perfect match. For future brides planning their own special day, Emily’s advice is simple: “Do everything exactly how you and your spouse want to do it, all outside opinions are just noise!”
Q: Is there anything you wish you had known before the big day or while you were planning the wedding?
A: Don’t stress over attendance. The people who are supposed to be there will be.
Planning your dream wedding? Let Pearl by David’s be your ultimate wedding planning bestie! You’ll unlock Pearl Planner, full of personalized planning tools for your big day, along with advice, tips, and trends straight from the experts. Sign up today and start planning a day as magical as Emily and Brian’s!
Did you say “I do” in a David’s dress? We’d love to hear your story! If you’re interested in being featured in an article or an edition of The Wink, fill out our real wedding submission form for a chance to inspire future brides with your special day.
VENDOR DIRECTORY:
Dress: Galina Signature, exclusively at David’s Bridal
Photographer: Lightrise Photography
Videographer: askem studios
Caterer: Southern Way Catering
Venue: Aurora Farms, Greenway, SC
Hair & MUA: Marlee Miller
Entertainment: Kestrel Productions
Baker: Publix
