Joy & Andy in Houston, TX

Most people are hoping to get a better score when they take MCAT prep courses, but Joy Beato landed that, plus a fiance: Andrew (Andy) French. The Bride Joy Beato, 25, grad stuednt and sales coordinator The Groom (Andy) French, 27, med student The Date May 7 Two years later on Andy’s birthday, he gave Joy a 14-page story of their relationship with a surprise ending: a ring. Joy immediately began a planning whirlwind, which she orchestrated solo. “A girl only gets one opportunity to plan her dream wedding, and I wanted to experience it all -- good, bad, and ugly!” she says. The wedding that ensued was accented with sumptuous elements, such as rich champagne hues and creme brulee in place of a traditional wedding cake.

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