Intimate English Garden Inspired wedding in CaliforniaTIMATE ENGLISH - shot on film

Jun 24

Do you remember that epic engagement session in the Trick Dog Bar in San Francisco? Well I feel it is about time to finish the story and to tell you about Bella and Billy’s wedding in California. From their epic engagement session at the Trick Dog Bar in San Francisco to their magical wedding day in the picturesque landscapes of California, their love story unfolds with grace and elegance. Join me as I unravel the intricate details and cherished moments of their intimate celebration, where a classic English Countryside Garden theme came to life.
A little bit about Bella and Billy’s love story: Bella and Billy's love story began eight glorious years ago in Davis, California. Their paths intertwined as coworkers at their apartment complex, where their shared pizza deliveries sparked a connection. When the time came for Billy to propose, he planned a date filled with love and nostalgia. On their sixth anniversary, he surprised Bella with a romantic wine tasting experience at the Domaine Chandon Winery in Napa Valley. As they arrived, a grand display of Bella's favorite flowers awaited them, accompanied by the sweet melodies of a violinist playing Taylor Swift's "Love Story."

Now fast forward to their wedding day. The couple's chosen venue, Park Winters, not only provided a stunning backdrop for the wedding but also catered to their culinary desires. With their own farm on-site, Park Winters incorporated fresh ingredients into their exquisite menus, ensuring a memorable dining experience. During cocktail hour, guests were delighted by tantalizing appetizers such as the Tuna Poke, elegantly served in individual porcelain spoons, featuring wakame, soy, sesame, green onion, and miso aioli. To pay tribute to Billy's bartending profession, custom signature cocktails were crafted, including "Bella's White Linen Sour," "Billy's Hojicha Old Fashioned," and "Mickey's Blueberry Mojito," named after their beloved late dog. These delectable treats added a touch of personalized elegance to the celebration.

THE DETAILS

Fig & Vine, the masterminds behind the stunning floral arrangements and personal florals, transformed the venue into a breathtaking garden wonderland. From garden gathered bouquets to delicate boutonnieres, every floral creation exuded elegance and natural beauty. The ceremony space was adorned with ground aisle arrangements leading up to a captivating broken arch, adorned with cream and blush florals intertwined with lush greenery. The dinner tables featured delicate bud vases and ceramic compotes filled with naturally styled centerpieces. The tablescape decor, curated by Theoni Collection, showcased sea foam green ceramic chargers, velvet napkins, and minimalist gold silverware, creating a cozy and enchanting ambiance. Parchment paper menus, personalized with each guest's place card, provided by Shimmer & Stain, added an extra touch of sophistication.

Throughout the celebration, Bella and Billy created special moments that left a lasting impact. A lounge setup, curated by Blossom Farm Vintage Rentals, invited guests to relax and revel in the enchanting atmosphere. From a velvet forest green couch to a vintage leather club chair and a cream linen chair with brass details, the scene was completed with a vintage trunk serving as a coffee table. To ensure their guests' comfort, blankets were thoughtfully provided for the chilly evening.

The couple shared deeply personal vows during their first look, an intimate moment that allowed them to treasure their love for each other. Tears and smiles were exchanged as they poured their hearts out in the Sunken Gardens of Park Winters. During the ceremony, in the presence of their closest family and friends, they also recited more traditional vows, sealing their commitment to one another.

THE FAVORITE MOMENT OF THE DAY

Bella's favorite wedding day moment was the emotional first look, where all her restlessness and nerves melted away in the presence of Billy. The speeches during the reception held a special place in Billy's heart, as they allowed him to fully comprehend the depth of their love and witness the genuine affection their friends had for his wife. These cherished moments filled their hearts with overwhelming happiness and solidified the beauty of their union.

Bella and Billy's wedding day was a true testament to the power of love and the beauty of their shared vision. With its English Countryside Garden aesthetic and the idyllic settings of San Francisco and Napa Valley, their celebration became a captivating journey of romance and elegance. From the culinary delights and exquisite decor to the heartfelt moments that unfolded throughout the day, their wedding left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to witness it.

I photographed their wedding day solely on film, knowing that wedding film photography is something that they really value - and not to mention the nostalgia that the old school analogue bring in our modern digital world.