Emmy Liss never fathomed that her college internship would lead to meeting her future husband. However, while working together, she and Michael Lazar discovered they had the same birthday, which allowed them to stay loosely in contact over the years through annual birthday messages.

While visiting San Francisco for business after graduation, a simple Twitter post made by Emmy signaled to Michael that they happened to be in the city at the same time. They met up, toasted to their mutual birthday with a glass of Champagne, and eventually fell in love. Michael popped the question in their New York City apartment during a holiday weekend, and the two wined and dined to celebrate.

In planning their lovely occasion, the couple wanted to ensure that the details reflected themselves. “We wanted it to feel very much like us. That’s ultimately why we chose a venue two blocks from the apartment we share and styled the whole wedding to match our personalities,” confides the bride. In doing so, they posed on the neighborhood streets and gave guests a guide to the East Village.

Considering Emmy’s favorite color, the whimsical floral arrangements showcased yellow blooms to highlight a summery feel. “High above each table was a trellis with flowers woven throughout and hanging down alongside floating candles," notes Emmy. "There were just candles on the tables themselves, drawing guests’ eyes up to the arrangements above.” She also wanted her bridesmaids to each flaunt beautiful and unique gowns, so she selected a neutral shade and let the ladies decide the style.

Emmy and Michael exchanged vows under a lush chuppah in their traditional Jewish ceremony. The rabbi who officiated the proceedings happens to be the son of the rabbi who wed Emmy’s parents. The reception included an Italianesque meal with a toast by Emmy’s father. Midway through his speech, he surprised attendees as the band started playing “All You Need Is Love” and he sang the lyrics, at which point everyone in attendance sang along. “We were completely surprised,” shares the couple. They later requested special tunes in honor of their friends, and when the dance party official ended, guests joined the couple for the after-party at a local bar.

Now that the newlyweds have experienced their magical occasion, they emphasize the importance of personal touches and encourage engaged couples to stay true to themselves in each planning decision: “Design the wedding you want to have, not what you think your guests want. If you are having fun, your guests will too.”