I have always been someone who had a different perspective on marriage and weddings. Growing up, I was passionate about two things: fashion and climate change. Living in New Orleans, I was acutely aware of the impact of rising sea levels on my city. At the same time, I spent hours watching Fashion TV on VH1, fascinated by coastal erosion and its effects.
Even as a child, I resisted the idea of marriage as a traditional milestone. I admired the women in my life who charted their own paths. My mother, unconventional in her own right, repurposed her wedding dress as a Mardi Gras costume for me and my sisters. My godmother, the late gallerist Julie Saul, never married, showing me that independence was a valid choice. And my Grandma Bea’s advice to choose a partner who makes you laugh stuck with me.
Instead of focusing on marriage, I pursued a career in environmental law. Witnessing the devastation of Hurricane Katrina during my college graduation solidified my commitment to environmental causes. I worked for environmental nonprofits and even served as a co-chair on the Congressional global-warming committee. However, my passion for storytelling led me to pivot towards public relations. In 2013, I co-founded an agency with a mission to amplify voices working towards a better world.
It wasn’t until I met a man who shared my values and made me laugh that I reconsidered my stance on marriage. In 2019, we got engaged in a spontaneous moment at Russ & Daughters Cafe. I opted for a vintage pearl band from Mikimoto, a company known for its sustainability efforts. While thoughts of a grand New Orleans wedding crossed my mind, I ultimately desired a small, eco-friendly celebration that didn’t break the bank.
In the end, my wedding was a reflection of who I am – someone who values sustainability, individuality, and meaningful connections. It wasn’t a fairy-tale affair, but it was perfect for me. And as I embark on this new chapter of my life, I carry with me the lessons of the women who came before me, paving my own unique path forward.
