Diana and Hadrian planned a family getaway in 2024 with a micro wedding. They chose the Dominican Republic. Hadrian’s new job, which he started two months after the couple got engaged, meant that he had two weeks of vacation in February 2023. What better time to get married? The couple decided to elope in Santa Barbara California, just two months before they had planned on getting married. !
Diana + Hadrian designed a beautiful elopement with colors inspired by the early spring. It began at the Palihouse Hotel and moved on to the stunning Santa Barbara County Courthouse. The day was balanced to include time with family members and time for the couple alone.
This one is extra special for us because Diana was a former member of the GWS Team! !
Take a look at Tessa Shannon Photography’s stunning shots of Diana and Hadrian’s wedding!
Diana, a wedding industry insider, approached her dress search with the knowledge she gained from working as a bridal designer. Diana shopped at a sample sale in Stanley Korshak’s Bridal Salon in Dallas.
“After all the dresses failed to impress, I walked around the store with my stylist one final time, and she pointed out the dress that had the texture I was searching for,” Diana explains. She said she probably wouldn’t sell me the dress because it was not a good choice. Why? It was because it was a brand-new dress that just arrived in the store the previous day. It had not even been tried on. As I left, the manager overheard and said, “If she likes it, I’ll buy it for her!” I could not pass on this opportunity. It was the only dress I connected to when I tried it. It was also my perfect size.” Diana’s strapless tulle dress by Ines di Santo. It was meant for you!
First Look
If you are deciding between a classic suit or something more daring like Hadrian’s custom kelly-green suit from Alec Xavier, check out.
Marla Nyamadorj created Diana’s perfect pony using face framing and her stunning makeup look.
Of course, we ADORE Diana’s green wedding shoes!! We love her emerald slingback heels called “Tommaso” by Jennifer Chimandi!
Also, so into Hadrian’s Ferragamo Calfskin Gancini Moccasin Loafers.
What a great idea to have a custom-made lining for Hadrian’s costume! Spidey senses are on fire!
If you want to write your vows, check them out.
How gorgeous is this early spring-inspired bridal bouquet by Ella & Louie? Flowers full of pastel blooms!
Diana’s sheer elbow-length pearl detail gloves look so stylish! You can find a similar pair of gloves at Anthropologie. Please browse our list of 21 pairs of wedding gloves for the elegant bride.
“The wedding day was perfect,” Diana said. “Hadrian & I prepared in separate suites, and we had our first glance in the courtyard of Palihouse Hotel. It couldn’t have worked better for our theme.” The chic boutique hotel was great for feeling like you were the only guests. It’s also a photogenic location !”
You’ll love our list of emerald rings because you share the same passion for green as Diana and Hadrian.
A Courthouse Ceremony
Diana fell in love with Santa Barbara County Courthouse for many meaningful reasons when she wrote about this epic elopement shoot for GWS! Diana explains that she felt a special connection to the story because of the bride’s battle with cancer. Given Hadrian’s battle with cancer, the beauty of the area, and the idea of getting married (hopefully in a warm climate), it all fell into place reasonably quickly.
Check out these ideas to make your civil or courthouse wedding memorable.
Diana and Hadrian are nailing the “elevated Courthouse Wedding” vibe.
A Private Celebration
Diana and Hadrian celebrated their wedding with their parents, siblings, and friends. They had pizza, cake, a romantic dinner, and a fantastic outfit change! Diana’s off-shoulder dress in pink florals from Rodarte is so cute!!
Our advice to those planning now
Take the risk and elope. If it feels too frightening, do something in between! We split our wedding day into two sections, one for family and another without. This allowed us to have both parents and siblings witness the union of their children and ourselves. After we said “I Do,” we all went our separate way, and it was Hadrian and Diana’s show! It was great to be able to enjoy the moment with just us two, but also to have the family present. “You won’t regret going!”
We love the crystal pony-cuff Lelet NY she has in her hair.
Hadrian wore an embroidered oxford Shirt by Gucci.
If you want a bridal look similar to Diana’s second gown, check out our collection of the best blush and rose-colored wedding dresses.
The springy floral wedding cakes by Frances Baker happened to match Diana’s dress!
Diana: Our wedding was everything we wanted. I am so proud to share this with you!
You’ll be glad you did! Congratulations, Diana and Hadrian! Congratulations, Diana + Hadrian! Early spring romance at its best! GWS wishes you the best!
