napa valley

Springtime Cottages of Napa Valley COVID Wedding » Napa, California by Vivian Chen

Shanna and Kevin had to reschedule their wedding three times due to the pandemic but third times the charm as they were finally able to get married on their 10 year anniversary. While they had always planned for a smaller celebration, a ceremony at San Francisco City Hall and a dinner at a winery in Los Gatos had to be shelved fairly quickly at the start of 2020. But after spending a little vacation at the Cottages of Napa Valley, a favorite of Kevin’s parents, they realize that this quaint resort featuring eight cottages in wine country would make the perfect place for their tiny family only wedding plans. The hotel’s owner graciously allowed Shanna and Kevin to book out the whole place for the weekend which made it perfect (and easy) to host festivities. The afternoon started with Shanna and Kevin getting ready together. Fiona from Urban Beauty Loft helped Shanna with her hair and make-up while Kristin from KO Floral Designs provided some lush blooms to brighten the day. As it was too early in the season for winery photos, we headed over to nearby Alston Park for some spring time portraits and we even stopped on the side of the road for some photos with the bright yellow mustard flowers. We headed back to the Cottages for their wedding ceremony in the courtyard garden, officiated by a close friend of theirs. Afterwards, everyone relaxed and enjoyed a deliciously catered meal while mingling in the garden. Such a simple and sweet way to celebrate!

Wine Country Childhood Home Wedding » Calistoga, California by Vivian Chen

Stephanie and Ryan grew up in Sonoma County and kept it local for their wine country celebration. With the help of their friends and family, they transformed Ryan's 50 year old childhood home into a beautiful wedding wonderland. The ceremony, officiated by one of their good friends, took place besides the big red wooden barn. Afterwards, the couple drove down the street to a nearby vineyard for sunset portraits in Ryan's father's vintage Toyota Land Cruiser before heading back for a dinner reception in the backyard under cafe lights. All the personal touches truly made this wedding a close family affair.

Wedding Venue: Ryan's Childhood Home // Catering: Elaine Bell Catering // Floral Design: Maria Philbin // Rentals: Encore Event Rentals // DJ: Techtonic Events // Make-Up: Unveiling Design by Heather // Hairstylist: Katie of Unveiling Design by Heather // Invitation: Basic Invite // Stephanie's Dress: Starlet Bridal // Ryan's Suit: Men's Warehouse // Rings: ER Sawyer Jewelers

Intimate Destination Bardessono Hotel + Spa Wedding » Yountville, California by Vivian Chen

Alix and Caleb flew down from Seattle for their intimate Napa Valley destination wedding at the stunning Bardessono Hotel & Spa in downtown Yountville. While wine country weddings usually conjure up images of vineyards and rustic barns, Bardessono's modern architecture made for a unique backdrop for the day's festivities. Surrounded by their 30 closest friends and family, they said their vows in the hotel's courtyard with Alix's father officiating. Afterwards, everyone was invited for cocktails and dinner outside of Lucy Restaurant before we wrapped up the evening with dessert and sparklers.