Friday, July 29, 2011

Destination Wedding Napa: Another Look at one of our All-time Favorites!

Words by Courtney Kellar

Words by Courtney Cox
Photos courtesy of Beautiful Day Photography and Lori of The Purple Tree Photography

We think this real destination wedding is really something special – and think you’ll agree. The photos are so lovely and striking, it’s tempting to let them speak entirely for themselves. However, there are a ton of sweet and intimate details we’re dying to share.

The couple embraced having a destination wedding by making it a whirl-wind, week-long affair. Family and friends were central to the celebration and pre-wedding activities included a cheese and wine tasting, croquet tournament and pool party. The bridal party was treated to welcome bags imprinted with an image of the couple taken during their engagement shoot.

Cher and Ian pulled off an amazing affair in Napa that embraced the world-class wine and rolling countryside, while still showcasing their signature style. Exhibit A: Cher’s gorgeous blue Carolina Herrera gown. Yes, that’s right- blue. Combined with the photographer’s use of natural light photography, Cher’s dress seemed heavenly in both its glow and texture.

Not to be left out, the groom, groomsmen and bridesmaids all had very distinct and high-fashion styles as well. Thankfully, all eight of Cher’s bridesmaids had tanned and toned gams because their short, tulle-tiered tutu dresses were one of a kind. Love'm or hate'm, they’re certainly unique! The groom and groomsmen wore cream colored linen suits with a subtle blue pin stripe.

The ceremony took place in a classic cathedral-style church. The setting definitely befitted the drama and high-style of the participants. For this couple, a traditional limo just wouldn’t fit the bill. Instead, they zipped off after saying “I do” in an antique convertible Bentley. Cher and Ian took advantage of the gorgeous Napa countryside near their venue, Shady Oaks Winery, and posed for pictures in their wedding day duds.

Another common theme throughout the wedding was not just blue, but butterflies. Cher chose this fancy flier in dedication to her late mother. Continuing with the earthly theme, the couple’s ceremonial programs were infused with wildflower seeds. Guests could plant their programs and later see flowers bloom.

The reception was reflective of the couple’s vivacious and daring personalities. Cher and Ian’s celebrations proved that a wine country wedding doesn’t have to mean burgundy and brown. Rustic wooden tables were set up in a vast lawn covered in gorgeous flower centerpieces, apple placecard holders and antique books. There wasn’t a plastic plate or fork in sight as guests sat down to dine on beautiful scalloped plates and chargers.

Cher, a doctor (beauty and brains!), did a phenomenal job of ensuring her and Ian’s personalities were reflected in their w-day with the help of Shelly with Wine and Dine Events. The couple danced well into the night on their black and white-checkered dance floor. We wish the couple the best and were so pleased to get to feature this one-of-a-kind wedding.

Vendors: Cake - Sweetie Pies, Flowers - Valley Flora, Bridesmaid Dresses - Dina’s Bridal