Alina Chuldjian and Dustin Fruge met each other in a way many television and film aficionados would only dream of meeting their future spouse: on the set of a popular TV show – in this case Parks and Recreation. "There was an instant attraction but we did not start officially dating until after season two had wrapped," explains the bride of their first encounter while working on set. Following a romantic courtship, Dustin proposed to Alina over a romantic breakfast in bed on New Year's Eve.

Since the mother of the bride was heavily involved in the decision-making during wedding planning, Alina and Dustin made sure to heed her best piece of advice: "Start early and don't procrastinate." With just eight months to plan their nuptials, Alina and Dustin first decided on the location of their celebration. Desiring a traditional Armenian ceremony to honor the bride's heritage as well as a reception hall where they knew the food would be incredible, they decided upon an Armenian church for the vow exchange and an Armenian banquet hall for the festive reception.

On the day of the ceremony, bridesmaids dressed in embellished blush gowns carried bouquets of blush, cream, and lavender roses. Alina was elegant in a strapless mermaid gown as she carried a lush arrangement of vanilla peonies. Her hair was worn down in stylish curls and pulled away from her face with a glistening headpiece. As she met her groom at the altar, they took part in traditional Armenian wedding practices, including the rite of crowning, which symbolizes the couple pledging themselves to sacrifice in life for the benefit of their unity as they are crowned king and queen of their own kingdom. 

Following the "I dos," guests made their way to the event space for a celebratory reception, complete with plenty of delicious dishes – including 30 appetizers and four entrees – and lots of dancing. Tables were topped with towering centerpieces composed of crystal candelabra featuring arrangements of blush and blanche roses, hydrangeas, and greenery. The couple sat at a sweetheart table adorned with an overflowing floral runner, which fell gracefully to the floor on both sides of the table. In addition to all of the delectable cuisine, guests enjoyed slices of an all-white, three-tiered confection decorated with blush peony sugar flowers. They also received clear boxes with two macarons inside – one blush, one white – as wedding favors.

"Since my wedding was half Armenian and half American, it was a real treat to see some of my non-Armenian friends and family really enjoy the food and dancing," shares Alina. She also offers brides and grooms the following advice for their own big days: "On the day of your wedding, slow down and take in every moment because the day goes by so fast."