Nicole & Mike: A Modern Wedding in Detroit, MI

Inspired by the city of Detroit, Nicole and Mike chose black, red, and hot pink wedding colors to create a retro vibe. We definitely wanted our wedding to have a romantic, fun, yet not too traditional feel to it, says Nicole. THE BRIDE Nicole Karapetian, 31 THE GROOM Mike Boland, 30 THE DATE September 3 Nicole and Mike felt an instant attraction from the moment they met. Both were in their early 20s, and they quickly became a couple. But after dating for two years, the pair split, realizing that they were too young to be in a serious relationship. Proving standard breakup procedures wrong, Nicole and Mike, who both work in the auto biz, remained good friends, talked all the time, and hung out regularly. It wasn't until Nicole was contemplating a move to California that they realized their feelings went way beyond simple friendship. I felt like I was at a crossroads, says Nicole. She decided to take a chance on love -- and this time around everything fit perfectly. They bought a house, got a puppy, but never broached the topic of marriage. We'd talk about growing old together, just not about the getting married part, says Nicole. So you can imagine her surprise when Mike proposed with an engagement ring he had designed himself. I was so happy and stunned! she says.