Classic is the new black, so to speak, and for California, Napa is the new ballroom. We have seen a revival of elegant, all white, tuxedo infused weddings as of late and our hearts are singing a happy tune. Especially when we get to indulge in so much eye candy courtesy of Alisha + Brook Photographers. But the images aren’t the only stunning thing to come out of this union. There’s also the talented coordination by Dream A Little Dream Events plus impeccable styling by Three Sisters Event Planning and the perfect accompaniment to any classic fête, florals upon dreamy florals by Soulflower Design Studio. See it all in the full gallery and for more fabulous soirées straight from Napa check out our California Weddings Blog for a load of gorgeous from up and down the Golden State.
Click here to see the entire gallery of images!
From the Bride…Chris and I were married on July 22, 2011. It was important to us to have a wedding that honored our friends, families and our personal style. Since I grew up in Michigan and Chris grew up in Boston, we wanted to select a location that would be different and special for us and all of our guests. Beaulieu Garden was one of three venues we decided to check out while on a trip to California in the Fall of 2010. From the moment we stepped inside the gates to the tree-lined entrance, we instantly fell in love. From the ceremony garden, to the cocktail garden, to dinner under the arbor and the reception among the vineyards and mountains, it was magical.
We wanted our wedding to be simple, yet elegant, and the food, drink, and decor reflected that. Guests were greeted with lemonade & mint served in mason jars, ice cream cones were offered in lieu of the traditional cake, and “late night snacks” of mini grilled cheese and french fries in paper cones were served. We also wanted to tie in some vintage elements – like the library card catalogue that held guests place cards, and the distressed door with old family photos pinned to it. I loved the balance of these old pieces against the crystal chandeliers and formal garden.We tried to tie in as much of our family history as we could because we recognized this day was as much about those who have loved and supported us along the way, as it was about us. We were lucky enough to have Fr. George Charnley, the priest who married my parents and baptized my sisters and I, fly to California to marry us, which was incredibly special. About two months before the wedding, my mom suggested framing small photos or “lockets” of each set of grandparents to tie into my bouquet — and I thought this was such a beautiful way to honor all of them.
We had the opportunity to work with so many amazing people during this process — including our photographer, Brook Todd, who captured the day so beautifully. He went above and beyond by recommending our rehearsal dinner location, hotel options, and the band. On top of that, he’s just really fun to be around – we’re searching for an excuse to work with him again! We also worked with Three Sisters Event Planning here in Boston, and they were amazing at staying on top of every detail, while designing our entire event from start to finish. Dream a Little Dream Events in San Francisco helped us find our amazing florist and hair & make-up artist, and made sure the actual day went off without a hitch! Above all else, we have the most amazing parents, who inspire us to be good to each other and ourselves.
I met the most amazing human being on the planet when I found Chris, and I was lucky enough to marry him last July. He can make me laugh so hard it hurts, and make me want to be a better person — all at the same time. It was such an unforgettable day for us, made even more special by all of the family and friends that traveled so far to be there. There are no words to describe how much that meant to us.
Ceremony + Reception Venue: Beaulieu Garden Estate / Wedding Photography: Alisha + Brook Photographers / Transportation: Beau Wine Tours / Wedding Planning: Dream A Little Dream Events / Music: Eloquence String Quartet + Notorious San Francisco / Rentals: Heritage & Craft / Photo Booth: Magnolia Photo Booth Co. / Catering: Paula LeDuc Catering / Hair + Make-up: Sherrie Long / Floral Design: Soulflower Design Studio / Lighting: Got Light? / Rentals: Classic Napa / Design + Upfront Coordination: Three Sisters Event Planning / Day-of-Coordination + Vendor Referrals: Dream A Little Dream Events / Save the Dates, Invitations + Ceremony Programs: Smudge Ink / Dinner Menus, Custom Place Cards + Note to Family and Friends: Hobart & Haven / Vintage Rentals: Milk Glass Vintage Rentals