Sometimes, love grows when you least expect it. For Katie and Derek, it all began back in high school. Neither of them were looking to date—but friendship slowly turned into something more. “We have been together since 2017,” Katie shared. “…we realized that we are just best friends and ended up falling in love.”
Years later, Derek planned a proposal that was quiet, meaningful, and true to them. On October 21, 2022—while Katie was pregnant with their son—the couple went for one of their usual post-work walks. “We were just relaxing, going on a nice fall walk when he asked!”
When it came time to find her wedding dress, Katie had already been following Ohio Bridal Outlet and had seen the rave reviews. What really sealed the deal? “I absolutely loved how the dresses are organized by price,” she said. “It made it so easy and not stressful to find the perfect dress.” She made the drive from Miami, OH to our Jeffersonville location, and said yes to the perfect dress for her big day.
Katie wore Beccar Laurier—a dreamy and romantic design that felt made for her ethereal wedding in the woods. With a soft, full tulle skirt featuring unique asymmetrical draping and a plunging V-neckline, this gown is designed for the free-spirited bride. Delicate hand-embroidered floral appliqués trail from the lace bodice down through the skirt, giving the dress an organic, whimsical quality that was right at home in the natural setting of Ash Cave. The elegant straps and sculpted silhouette added just the right touch of structure, while the overall look channeled pure fairy-tale magic.
Katie and Derek said “I do” on May 30, 2025, with a micro wedding at the breathtaking Ash Cave in Hocking Hills, Ohio—just 25 of their closest family members gathered for the celebration. The weather? Pouring rain. But instead of letting it put a damper on their day, they embraced it.
“It absolutely dumped rain our entire wedding day,” Katie said, “but we embraced it and ended up having so much fun taking our photos in the rain. Our whole day was very untraditional and filled with so much love.”
From the scenic setting to the meaningful guest list and all the sweet in-between moments, Katie and Derek’s day was a perfect reflection of who they are: mellow, intentional, and grounded in love.
We’re so honored Katie chose Ohio Bridal Outlet to be part of her story—and so grateful to help brides like her find a dress that feels just right.
Congratulations, Katie + Derek!
Vendors:
Venue: Ash Cave, Hocking Hills
Photographer: Thistle and Weeds Photography
Dress: Ohio Bridal Outlet | Beccar
Officiant: Honeycomb Officiating