A Pirate's Life: Cat & Phil in Calistoga, CA
Almost two years after meeting through an online dating site, Phil proposed to Cat during a romantic weekend away at Scottsdale Omni Resort & Spa. "He whisked me away for a surprise weekend for his birthday weekend, so I wouldn't be suspicious," Cat recalled. While relaxing by one of the resort's outdoor fireplaces, Phil pulled out a box with a Lord of the Rings ring, a handmade scroll with the movie's "Ring Verse," and asked Cat to marry him. "Shocked, it took a few seconds before I said yes!"
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While discussing their wedding plans over a bottle of wine, they decided on Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean. The pair envisioned a wine cave reception, so they toured Napa and discovered Calistoga Ranch.
Almost two years after meeting through an online dating site, Phil proposed to Cat during a romantic weekend away at Scottsdale Omni Resort & Spa. "He whisked me away for a surprise weekend for his birthday weekend, so I wouldn't be suspicious," Cat recalled. While relaxing by one of the resort's outdoor fireplaces, Phil pulled out a box with a Lord of the Rings ring, a handmade scroll with the movie's "Ring Verse," and asked Cat to marry him. "Shocked, it took a few seconds before I said yes!"
Cat had a very specific vision in mind for her gown, but she ran into trouble finding The One in her price range. She ended up finding the right fit through separates — a bodysuit by Martina Liana paired with a skirt by Mori Lee.
Phil chose a classic black tuxedo for his attire.
The bride's bouquet featured orange and white roses, with a pirate pendant wrapped around the stems.
The groom's boutonniere mirrored the bride's bouquet.
A miniature treasure chest held the rings, which Phil's brother presented to the officiant.
Cat found a perfect Pirates of the Caribbean necklace on Ebay.
A rainy day was a blessing in disguise. "It gave us a fairy tale day, amazing photos, and forced us into an even better ceremony spot — an outdoor patio that was like a ship deck overlooking a mossy lake."
