Sections

A DIY West Coast Wedding

Updated Apr 23, 2015

| By Vanessa Ortynsky

"Both of us are incredibly thankful for what athletics have brought into our lives -- leadership skills, work ethic, but most importantly, they led us to each other," says Erica who initially connected with her husband Alan over a shared love of sports.

While out for a run, Erica recognized the nice football guy from her human kinetics class and decided to catch up to him. The pair met again after the University of British Columbia's women's basketball team (of which Erica was a member) won nationals. While out celebrating, Alan asked Erica to dance, impressing her with his original rendition of the robot.

The couple continued to support each other throughout their athletic careers. "I knew that I had found a truly special guy when Alan encouraged me to move to the Czech Republic to pursue my dream of playing professional basketball, even though it meant I'd be out of the country for seven months!" recalls Erica.

After dating for six years, Alan struggled to come up with the perfect way to propose to Erica. He wanted the moment to be private and a complete surprise. Finally, he decided to stash the engagement ring under his pillow while they slept. Waking up very early, he caught Erica completely off guard when told her to check under her pillow!

Erica and Alan opted for a beautiful, unique west coast setting for their countryside celebration, the Overbury Resort on Thetis Island. The main house where they held the reception was filled with vintage decor, and their guests stayed in rustic cabins, only steps away from the ocean. They crafted many of their wedding details by hand, and incorporated details from their hometowns to make the day extra special.

Erica McGuinness and Alan Pepper, July 14, 2012, Thetis Island, British Columbia.

Photography courtesy of Christie Graham Photography.

Vendors
Ceremony and reception location: Overbury Resort Bridal gown: Amy Kuschel Kennedy from Belltown Bride in Seattle. Bridal party attire: J.Crew
Groom's suit: Custom-made in Vancouver Cake: Overbury Resort Caterer: Overbury Resort Favours: Kernels Popcorn and District Dog Designs Flowers: Overbury Resort Stationery: Two Cardinal Day on Etsy