Caitlin met Mike when he was visiting her roommate during college for the weekend. The two say they had an initial spark, but college got in the way, and they didn’t stay in touch. Flash forward three years and Caitlin and Mike both lived in San Francisco and just so happened to run into each other on a night out. That’s when the spark became a flame and three years later, the couple got engaged and began planning their California wine country wedding in the town of Healdsburg. 

The wine country provided the ideal place to meet in the middle (most of Caitlin’s family resides in New Jersey and Mike’s in Hawaii.) Not only that, but the two wanted a location that would be a special place to return to for every anniversary.

“We vacationed in Healdsburg and fell in love with this adorable little Sonoma town. It was our happy place and we couldn’t wait to share it with all our friends and family,” the couple says.

Chalk Hill Estate provided a stunning backdrop for the wine country ceremony, overlooking the rolling hills covered in vineyards. Local to Sonoma, their wedding planner of L’Relyea Events provided a stellar list of vendor recommendations to carry out the couples’ desired “earthy” theme.

Caitlin and Mike wanted, above all, for their guests to feel special and at ease. To start, the couple had a welcome party on Friday night before the wedding. “It was so nice to catch up with all the guests before the wedding, it took off some of the pressure for the big day,” the bride says.

Additionally, the invested a lot of time to write hand-written notes for every single guest to open before dinner. “It took months to complete but was totally worth it,” they say.

The day turned out wonderful, with a signature cocktail hour following the short yet sweet ceremony.

This California wine country wedding made out to be a fun project the couple could work on and be proud of together. The bride advises, “don’t be afraid to delegate to your spouse.” After all, the day is about two becoming one, so it’s an opportunity to tryout ultimate teamwork. In the end, it’s about enjoying each other and the company whos’ come from all around to celebrate you both!

Vendors: Photographer: Suzanne Karp Photography; Wedding Planner: L’Relyea Events; Ceremony/Reception Site: Chalk Hill Estate; Florist: Vanda Floral Design; Stationery: Love Notes Paper (Day of Printed Material) & Sweet Paper (Invitation Suite); Gown Designer: Marisa Bridals; Groom’s Clothing Designer: Indochino; Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Jenny Yoo; Groomsman Suits: Generation Tux; Band: Take 2 Dance Band; Rentals: Encore; Hair/makeup: Whimsy!