When Lauren Gras was introduced to Marvin Figueroa on move-in day at the start of their freshman year at UCLA, she had no idea that he would one day become her husband. But when Marvin’s friend (and later, best man) was assigned to the dorm room next to Lauren’s, the couple began a friendship that would blossom into a romantic relationship. More than a decade later, Marvin proposed to Lauren at a beautiful restaurant in the Hollywood Hills that offered sweeping views of the city. “I was so shocked and happy that I jumped up and said ‘yes!’” beams the bride.

Lauren and Marvin selected a modern cathedral in downtown Los Angeles to host their traditional Catholic ceremony. Décor was kept minimal to highlight the stunning venue; vintage-inspired ivory floral arrangements adorned the ends of the pews and altar. The bride was a vision of classic elegance in a stunning vanilla gown that featured intricate silver beading and embroidery, as well as crystal drops on the sleeves that swayed as she glided down the aisle. Her hair, swept into an elegant coiffure, was fastened with a sparkling headpiece and breathtaking cathedral veil.

Following the heartfelt ceremony, guests made their way to an Old Hollywood landmark for the reception – for which Lauren changed into a sleeveless ensemble, similar in fashion to her ceremony gown. Like her two designer dresses, the celebration was composed with alluring details, such as those seen in The Great Gatsby. Inspiration from the 1920s influenced every aspect of the event from the floral arrangements, to the Art Deco style confection, and even the building itself. In fact, the ballroom that welcomed Lauren and Marvin’s 260 guests also hosted nine Academy Awards shows, as well as a banquet honoring the foundation of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 1927.

To commemorate the beginning of the bride and groom’s relationship, as well as their alma mater, the UCLA fight song was played during the newlywed’s grand entrance. Dinner was served and dancing continued until midnight. “To give our guests an extra boost of energy, we served a snack towards the end of the reception,” explains Marvin of the grilled cheese sandwiches, tomato soup, and sweet potato fries provided to attendees.

The bride describes her big day as perfect, despite how fast it may have gone: “[Everything] seemed to flash before my very eyes, [but] I loved every element of our wedding. I can’t say I would change a thing.”