Rachael & Matt: A Mardi Gras Wedding in New Orleans, LA

After meeting and falling in love in New Orleans, the choice for where Rachael Rickoll and Matt Kuivinen would have their wedding was an obvious one. The Bride Rachael Marie Rickoll, 24, registered nurse The Groom Matthew (Matt) Thomas Kuivinen, 28, foreign service The Date November 4 Matt planned an elaborate surprise proposal in Washington, D.C., that included a trip to the Capitol Building, a romantic dinner, and a production of the Broadway show The Lion King. After a day of sightseeing, Matt sat Rachael down in a flowered garden in Bartholdi Park and proposed on one knee. A truly surprised Rachael immediately said yes and a spirited New Orleans wedding was in the works.