Ann-Marie and Mark Noyes are a good argument for paving an unorthodox path. From the start of their relationship they broke with tradition. The newlyweds met at work, where Ann-Marie, then Mark’s supervisor, bravely asked him out via a discreet note. After three years of dating, Mark proposed to Ann-Marie on Christmas Day 2007, presenting her with a not-so-subtle, customized Jones Soda bottle picturing Mark on one knee with ring in hand, a bottled-shocked Ann-Marie accepted. Today the one-time co-workers are happily married life partners.

Ann-Marie and Mark tied the knot on a beautiful late spring day, on the croquet court at the Whitney Oaks Golf Club in Rocklin. The date was purposely selected to honor and celebrate the 57th wedding anniversary of Ann-Marie’s grandparents, who were married on the same day, and amazingly, is also the birthdays of both her aunt and mother.

Incorporating customary elements with Ann-Marie and Mark’s flair for retro-modern aesthetics and playful pops of individuality, the wedding was as a tale of two styles. Its theme—black and white with polka dots and skulls inspired by a tattoo on the bride’s shoulder—showcased the couple’s distinct personalities. “We wanted a casual yet classic look,” Ann-Marie explains. “We do consider our wedding untraditional, but we also felt that it was important to make the day about Mark and me, our friends and family.”

The couple personalized the occasion accordingly, starting with designating Ann-Marie’s mother as wedding planner and requesting that her best friend of 20 years perform the ceremony. They also asked their brothers to stand up for them in lieu of a large bridal party. All wore black Converse sneakers, including the bride, who also donned a two-piece, high-temps friendly wedding dress originally designed for a bridesmaid. And, despite much advice to the contrary, Ann-Marie, an artsy cosmetologist, kept her hair a bright, signature pink. “It was important for me to be myself,” she says.

Ann-Marie and Mark’s reception also reflected the couple’s unconventional-meets-conventional clash of ideas and aesthetics. Tables were modern but sparse, featuring simple focal point centerpieces of handmade table numbers and black square boxes with white roses. “We wanted our rock star wedding, but with a few traditional elements,” Ann-Marie says. “We might have had a skull cake topper and bride and groom pimp cups, but we also had white rose centerpieces, and my dad walked me down the aisle.”  

In keeping with tradition, the couple honored their heritage with a table set with wedding day photos of their grandparents, while a candy bar, digital picture frame featuring four years of Ann-Marie and Mark memories, pasta and pizza menu, goody bags for kids and custom Jones Soda bottles featuring a photo of the couple as wedding favors, further personalized the unforgettable day.

“I think our guests will remember the relaxed atmosphere and unique touches,” reflects Ann-Marie, adding, “There are no set rules when it comes your wedding; make the day about you.”

Ceremony Site: Whitney Oaks Golf Club   Phone: 916-632-8333
Officiant: Kristen Corcoran (Bride's best friend for 20 years)
Ceremony Music: Kurt Smith (friend of couple)
Photographer: The Memory Journalists   Phone: 916-802-8004
Videographer: Ely Wilbur (friend and film student)
Wedding Planner: Deanne Wales (Bride's mother)
Reception Site: Whitney Oaks Golf Club   Phone: 916-632-8333
Hair: Jenn Huntzinger
Make-up: The Bride
Bridal Attire: David's Bridal
Groom's Attire: Kohl's
Bride's Jeweler: Guzzetta and Co.
Groom's Jeweler: Guzzetta and Co.
Invitations: Party City
Flowers: Rocklin Florist
Cupcakes: Safeway
Favors: Custom Jones Sodas
Table Linens: Celebrations! Elegant Party Rentals
Chair Rental: Celebrations! Elegant Party Rentals

Any tips you'd give to brides and grooms planning their wedding:
Make sure your wedding day reflects both you and your groom's personalities.