Friday, June 20, 2014

A Lovely Winery Wedding

Words by Taylor Wilson
Photos courtesy of Adeline and Grace Photography

Growing up, Monica’s family was constantly on the move. She lived in many different places and was able to experience so much of the country, she figured a destination wedding was only fitting for her background. The couple chose California because that was the state Monica was most attached to. “I was born in Northern California, my parents have had a home in Carmel for the past 13 years and I’ve lived in Los Angeles with my (now) husband for the past four years,” explains Monica.

Monica and her mom found the perfect spot for the wedding venue in sunny Sonoma. “We’d spent a few holidays there as a family and it had the perfect blend of country charm and elegance. In addition, being a short drive from SFO, we hoped it would appeal to many of our East Coast friends and family who had never experienced wine country and all its glory,” explains the bride.

Because the wedding was in April, there was a slight chance the weather could act up, which is why the Monica and Bill were extra careful in choosing a versatile venue. They wanted to make sure there was a fabulous indoor space in the event of rain or other bad weather and Cline Cellars' barrel room was a stunning alternative to a reception in the vineyard.

The couple was more than pleased with their vendors. Monica strongly suggests to request a recommended vendor list from the venue to help with suggestions of vendors used in the past. That is what Monica and Bill did, and they were more than happy with their team of vendors come wedding day.

As for other couples planning a destination wedding, the bride reminds them, “Be patient, kind and a good listener. It is your day, but we can’t forget the people we’re working with have their own lives and other clients as well. If you’re gracious and friendly to your ‘people’ they will jump through hoops for you. And you will need them to do so throughout the process. Expect tears – of sadness, happiness, irritation, joy, stress and relief. It’s just part of the journey. The best thing a friend told me towards the end was, ‘Right now you want it all to be over. But the second it is, you’ll want to do it all over again.’ This is so true. Relish all the moments. Because in a flash you’ll be like me about to celebrate our first year wedding anniversary thinking, where did the time go?”

Photographer: Adeline & Grace Photography, Wedding Planner: Enchanted Weddings, Ceremony/Reception Site: St. Francis Solano Church/Cline Cellars, Florist: Dandelion Floral, Stationery: Copper Willow Paper Studio, Cake: Fleur de Lisa Cakes, Hair & Makeup: The Powder Room, Gown Designer: Vera Wang, Bridesmaids Clothing Designer: J.Crew, Lighting: Twilight Design, Catering: Elaine Bell Catering, Band: Joe Sharino Band, Classical Trio: AMS Entertainment