A Colorful, Whimsical Wedding at Portofino Hotel & Marina in Redondo Beach, California

Amanda DiPiazza (29 and a TV executive) met Thadd William (30 and a freelance producer) while they were undergrads at Emerson College. “We didn’t start dating until we had both moved to LA after graduation,” Amanda says. “All our mutual friends kept saying ‘You’re perfect for each other.’ ” For their wedding at Portofino Hotel & Marina in Redondo Beach, California, the couple worked to create a lighthearted seaside event bursting with playful personal touches. Patterns and pink played large roles in the day's theme. After Amanda and Thadd exchanged vows outdoors under a bright fuchsia and pink wedding arch, guests went indoors for the reception, which boasted a photo booth, perfectly personalized cake and a '90s cover band. “We were most inspired by the look of our venue and wanted to bring lots of color into the reception hall to match the beautiful ocean vistas,” says Thadd, who designed the invitations. Amanda’s advice to engaged couples: Learn to dance together. (She and Thadd took lessons to perform a choreographed dance at the reception.) “Honestly, going to those dance lessons allowed Thadd and me to let loose and have fun—planning a wedding can be stressful, but dancing together connects you and reminds you why you’re getting married.” —Carolyn Meers