On the opposite side of a traditional ballroom affair lies a little gem we like to call California classic. It’s a type of wedding that utilizes the clear blue skies as its backdrop, where the sunshine runs a plentith and a layer of casual elegance is woven into each and every detail. This Templeton wedding indeed checks every one of those boxes along with photographs by Sarah Kathleen that capture maybe the best detail of all; the Bride’s big, beaming smile. It’s totally infectious and you can see even more of it right here in the full gallery as well as in the film by Joel VanZ way too sweet to pass up.

From the Bride… John and I were extremely lucky and honored to be married at his family’s vineyard in Templeton, CA. The property is an incredibly special place for us and is where most of our big relationship milestones took place, so getting married there set the stage for a wedding that was very personal from start to finish. A good friend of ours officiated the ceremony, another good friend catered, the wine was made by John’s dad, the beer was made by John’s uncle, and my dad planned and manned the cigar and Scotch bar.

Our main goal in planning the wedding was for it to be romantic and warm and very us, but most of all, we wanted it to be an incredibly fun party for our friends and family who had traveled so far to be there. I think we succeeded! What started off as a nearly unbearably hot 100 degree day turned into one of most beautiful and warm nights we’ve ever experienced and eating dinner outside under the cafe lights with everyone we love was something we’ll never forget. Our first dance, our delicious rosemary lemonade fizz cocktails, the amazing food, the awesome music & extremely energetic dancing.

Everything was perfect from beginning to end. My advice for brides planning a wedding at a venue that is more or less bare bones like I did? Start planning early and don’t stop! There are a million things to think through that you wouldn’t ever need to think about at a real wedding venue: Power generators, porta potties, lighting… the list goes on and on! Also – do something uniquely you and a little unexpected: We surprised our guests with late night karaoke and, given the open bar, it was a big hit!

Wedding Photography: Sarah Kathleen Photography / Wedding Venue: Groom’s Family Vineyard in Templeton, California / Wedding Planning: Danae Grace Events / Floral Design: Brianne Arrastia / Wedding Cinematography: Joel VanZ Outdoor Wedding Films / Catering: Culinary Eye Catering & Events / Invitations: Brown Linen – Calligraphy & Fine Design / DJ: Kramer Events / Rentals: Classic Party Rentals & Embellish Vintage Rentals / Wedding Dress: Sarah Morgan Bridal / Bride’s Sandals: Vera Wang Lavender via Nordstrom / Bride’s Earrings: Borrowed / Bride’s Bracelet/Cuff: Forever 21 / Bride’s Hair Clip: Blue Brocade / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: H&M / Bridesmaids’ Shoes: Bridesmaids’ Own Shoes / Bridesmaids’ Jewelry: Mix of H&M, Forever 21 + Personal Collections / Hair: Hive Natural Beauty Collective / Makeup: Makeup by Bernadette