When Catherine Hall Studios sent over this Napa beauty, I squealed with delight. Because I swear this bride and I are kindred spirits. Her pretty pup was just about enough to send me over the giddy edge, but when I saw her glam-fest of a gown, her bow-tied groom and her vibrant choice of wedding hue – I just about died. How can you not love a Bride that plans a day like this with the help of Off the Beaten Path Weddings? It’s prettiness defined, and you can see the gorgeous story unfold right here!

From Catherine Hall Studios… Bryan proposed to Jen in Sonoma on a beautiful day in September 2010 with a cherry ring pop. (“If I had asked you what kind of ring you wanted it would have ruined the surprise,” he said.) The proposal was preceded by a very Bachelor-esque helicopter tour of the valley.

Jennifer and Bryan’s wedding had every bit of the glamor of an old Hollywood movie set, but none of the formality. The couple had a great sense of style, and it shows in their concept of the wedding. Every detail was exquisite, from the bride’s Oscar de la Renta gown to the gorgeous wedding favors and stationery. Yet, there was also a casual elegance that made you completely relaxed and comfortable around the feisty bride and her stoic groom. In what must be the unexpected climax of the night, the fire from the sparklers set the dance floor on fire — surely a good sign that the guests were enjoying themselves! Of paramount importance was that their beloved guests who had traveled from near and far felt welcomed and comfortable and were able to spend time with one another. With massive support from a team of amazing people (expertly led by Mary Ellen Murphy), Jen and Bryan were able to keep things casual yet festive; playful yet personal.

Initially, the bride’s strong desire was to avoid all things “wedding” and “bridal.” To Jen, this meant not picking colors, not having bridesmaids or groomsmen and not getting carried away with too many fluffy details. Instead of planning a wedding, the couple’s goal was to plan a big, fun party to celebrate good friends and family (and food). And then the bride agreed to go dress shopping with one of her closest friends in NYC. And then she found her dress. Which arguably was the most “wedding” dress of wedding dresses in Mark Ingram’s vast stock. From that moment, the bride realized that planning a wedding that was neither “wedding” nor “bridal” was a much greater challenge than expected.

Wedding Photography: Catherine Hall Studios / Wedding Venue: A Private Estate in Napa, California / Wedding Coordination: Mary Ellen Murphy of Off the Beaten Path Weddings / Floral Design: Erica Rose Design / Catering: Elaine Bell Catering / Wedding Stationery: Passing Notes / Wedding Dress: Oscar de la Renta / Bride’s Shoes: Stuart Weitzman / Hair + Makeup: Sarah E. Hyde of sHe

Catherine Hall Studios and Elaine Bell Catering are members of our Little Black Book, Love what you see? Take a look at their portfolios.
Catherine Hall Studios

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Elaine Bell Catering

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