1. Real Weddings

Kären & Jared: A Red Wedding in Northport, AL

Kären had decided to take six months to hike the Appalachian Trail solo -- until she met Jared in the Tennessee stretch. They spent the rest of the jo

Kären had decided to take six months to hike the Appalachian Trail solo -- until she met Jared in the Tennessee stretch. They spent the rest of the journey traveling side-by-side, and when they reached Connecticut, Jared met the whole Kokotiuk clan. I promised my parents I wouldn't bring a man home unless I was going to marry him, Kären says. For the proposal, Jared planned a long weekend in Acadia National Park where he popped the question at sunset on a secluded beach. The Bride Kären Joy Kokotiuk, 28, clinical research coordinator The Groom Jared Dwight Fulton, 26, architect The Date April 23

The Invitations
Instead of marrying near the bride's home in Connecticut, Kären and Jared preferred to exchange vows in the small church in Alabama that Jared helped construct as part of his architecture degree. Their eighty guests braved the narrow dirt roads through the countryside of Alabama to witness the union and hear meaningful readings about having complete joy and being of the same mind and spirit.
The Cake
A Publix in Tuscaloosa put together eye-popping bouquets of roses for the affair. I was amazed at how professional they looked! Kären says. She carried a cluster of red roses down the aisle.
The Reception Decor
Kären found a non-fussy halter top gown with light beading down the train at David's Bridal. I wanted a dress that I felt beautiful in without spending a ton of money, she says. I felt beautiful that day due to the love I felt from the Lord and all those who surrounded me.