the modern odyssey

ing to me of the man, Muse, the man of twists

As published on

and turns. 
Odysseus’ journey home from the Trojan War was everything but straightforward, and 2020 was no different. Just as the legendary hero and main protagonist of Homer’s epic, the “Odyssey” traveled through the Mediterranean trying to return home, so too did we as a world try to navigate this strange world. 
We were forced into our own odyssey for the past two years, searching for normalcy and comfort. And in July of 2020, Duane asked Jaren to marry him. "Our first test as a couple was patiently waiting until we could anticipate a safer time to celebrate with all of our special guests—it was unbearable," the Bride and Groom said. As the months passed, restrictions lessened, and they chose an early December wedding date in 2021. Hoping to be married in Italy, Jaren and Duane opted for the incredible Sunstone Winery in Santa Ynez, California since restrictions were still in place. Celebrated by fifty of the closest friends and family at the villa, they finally had their moment. As Homer says, “There is nothing nobler or more admirable than when two people who see eye to eye keep house as man and wife, confounding their enemies and delighting their friends.”

Design and Styling, Coordination & Florals: Kimberly Sisti/SISTI&CO // Photography: CARMEN SANTORELLI // Videography: LOLA VIDEO // Paper Goods: TSE CALLIGRAPHY // Venue: SUNSTONE WINERY // Gown: BERTA // Groom's Attire: THE BLACK TUX Bridesmaids: AZAZIE // Shoes: JIMMY CHOO // Wedding Bands: DAVID YURMAN // Hair: TEAM HAIR & MAKEUP // Cake: LELE PATISSERIE // Quartet: ORGANIC STRING QUARTET // DJ: DAVID NEWTON ENTERTAINMENT // Linens: LA TAVOLA /BBJ LINEN  // Rentals: ARCHIVE, BRIGHT EVENT RENTALS // Lighting: AMBIENT EVENT LIGHTING // Earrings: TIFFANY & CO. // Catering: OMNI CATERING