Who knew having similar email addresses could potentially lead to marriage? That was the case for Ruben P. Salazar and Rachel P. Salazar, who began exchanging emails after Rachel's co-worker accidently sent Ruben an email.

In January 2007, Ruben, who lived in Texas, forwarded the email to Rachel, who lived in Thailand, thus starting the beginning of an endless email chain. "I was excited that this person was halfway around the world, it was kind of like sending a letter in a bottle," said Ruben.

After many days (in Thailand) and nights (in Texas) of getting to know each other, Rachel finally took a plane and traveled 8,000 miles to meet Ruben. Rachel kept the trip a secret from friends and family to avoid being called "foolish," while Ruben told everyone he knew.

After eight days of being with each other, Ruben proposed while the couple was out dancing one night. "I knew right at that moment: I need to say something or do something so that I don't lose her, so I got down on one knee and asked you [Rachel] to marry me," he said.

Although some of Ruben's friends and family had second thoughts and couldn't believe the shocking news, "They now all tell us, 'you're perfect for each other. You've found the right match!'" said Rachel.

Ruben and Rachel's love story was immortalized in an animated video created by StoryCorps:

If you’re looking for some fun ideas on how to personalize your wedding, check out these adorable custom-made ring bearer pillows from illustrator Colleen Johnson ($49.95 plus shipping). You can choose from any number of illustrations including sweet lovebirds and monograms or even a themed pillow like the seashell design crafted for a beach wedding.

Just e-mail Colleen your design preference or monogram initials (if that’s the design you choose), along with your wedding date and color scheme, and she’ll do the rest. You’ll get a proof of the pillow design for your review and receive it in about 3-4 weeks. Go to freshlineillustration.typepad.com or freshlineillustration.com.

I also loved Colleen’s charming cards—a great way to ask your favorite gal pals to be in the wedding party and then to thank them after the wedding for helping to make it so memorable. Check out the designs at etsy.com/shop/Freshline. They’ll so appreciate your thoughtfulness.

Some of the world’s most distinctive hotels (NYC’s The Carlyle, Las Ventanas al Paraíso in Cabo and Caneel Bay on St. John, U.S.V.I) belong to an elite group, called Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. Truth be told, many of the brand’s properties are among my favorite in the world, and they are often featured in the pages of your favorite bridal magazine. I love the attention to detail, the great service and—most importantly—the sense of place of each individual property.

We're always searching for ways to help BG brides save for their wedding without sacrificing their dream vision. That's why we've teamed up with our friends at The Aisle New York for an exclusive online sale, which starts on Jan. 31! Save up to 70% on gorgeous bridal gowns and accessories.