In December 2022, Olivia Rochman ventured to New Orleans from Boston for a long weekend, intending to celebrate a friend’s jewelry brand anniversary. A Tulane University graduate, Olivia had temporarily returned to her parents’ home in Newton after Hurricane Ida impacted her New Orleans rental.
Meanwhile, Coby Venable, a real estate attorney from Georgia, planned to attend the same party for a quick visit, unaware that he would encounter Olivia for the first time. Their introduction was facilitated by mutual friends, and Olivia was immediately drawn to Coby’s humor. Despite being captivated by her charm, Olivia humorously declined his request for her number initially, leading Coby to swiftly correct his approach.
Their first date took place the next evening at a Garden District restaurant owned by their mutual friends. Open discussions about their future quickly emerged, with both expressing a desire to marry and start a family. Olivia took Coby to Boston shortly after, where he met her family and experienced her close-knit upbringing.
As their relationship flourished, Olivia found herself moving back to New Orleans in February 2023, where she and Coby created a loving home together, complete with her pets. The couple embraced new experiences together, from skiing to two-stepping, leading Coby to appreciate the joys of life as he explored new activities alongside Olivia.
In June 2024, Coby proposed at Porter Lyons, the venue of their initial encounter, honoring Olivia’s family’s heritage with a re-creation of her mother’s heirloom ring. Subsequently, they chose Martha’s Vineyard for their wedding, as it held nostalgic significance for Olivia.
On June 6, Olivia and Coby were wed in an outdoor ceremony at the Winnetu Oceanside Resort, surrounded by 53 close guests, and with no formal wedding party. Their unique celebration emphasized closeness and shared experiences rather than traditional structures. Notably, Jayson officiated the ceremony and Olivia’s sister performed alongside the band.
Olivia’s unconventional wedding decor featured natural wildflowers, mirroring the memories of her summers on the island. The couple’s relationship had already felt like marriage long before their wedding day, solidifying their commitment to one another.
This heartwarming story of connection demonstrates that love can blossom unexpectedly, leading to a fulfilling and adventurous life together.
Additionally, the couple’s choice to prioritize family and shared experiences in their wedding planning reflects a modern approach to marriage. Olivia eloquently captures the essence of safety and comfort in a relationship, showing that love doesn’t always come with dramatic flair but can instead be a tranquil, reassuring presence.