Long Beach Love Stories: KATHRYN + KARI

Photo by Nola Fontanez Photography

"A LONG BEACH WEDDING"

Their story began in 2013, when Kari and Kathryn met for a quick drink at Shenanigans (bar in DTLB). Both had other commitments shortly after—Kari to the Belmont Shore Christmas Parade and Kathryn to another date in Pasadena. The meeting was brief, intended to determine if they were interested in pursuing a real date. They decided they were.

Over the next year, Long Beach became the backdrop of their relationship, with concerts in the park, countless meals on 2nd Street, and late nights dancing on Pine Avenue. Kari proposed in their first home together in Belmont Heights, one morning in late 2017. Even their engagement photos were taken at Ubuntu and the Colorado Lagoon—one of their favorite places in Long Beach. It wasn’t until 2020, during the pandemic, that they finally decided to plan their wedding. As a professional event planner, Kathryn knew the first step was to hire a planner.

They chose Grey LB for their intimate 65-person wedding because its downtown location and industrial modern aesthetic perfectly matched the vibe they were looking for. It was also one of the few venues that allowed them to bring in their own vendors, offering both cost control and creative freedom. 

Long Beach isn’t just where they live; it’s where they’ve built their life. Kathryn founded two businesses here—Tinsel & Bow, a gifting agency, and Tidy Places, a professional organizing service. She serves on the boards of the Women’s Business Council and the LGBT Chamber, among other community organizations. Kari has worked in Long Beach for over 20 years, earned her nursing license at LBCC, and played on a co-ed softball team through parks and rec. They also raised their daughter in Long Beach, from kindergarten to graduation at Wilson. After more than a decade in Long Beach, supporting local businesses for their wedding was an important choice. 

LONG BEACH VENDORS

VENUE: Grey LB

RENTALS: Stephanie’s Linens, Modi Supply

FOOD: Olivewood Pizza

FLORIST: Sugey’s Petals

PLANNER-COORDINATOR: 

Sweet Peach Planning (formally LB currently in Charleston)  

PHOTO: Nola Fontanez Photography

BEAUTY SERVICES: Face It Sugar

JEWELRY: Mark Schneider