Some things, like the get-away car, they could chose from a distance. The elected to hire Bow Tie Limousines for a vintage auto, completing the classic and romantic tone of their wedding.

Having chosen to have their wedding at Hans Fahden winery, Marla and Shawn were able to give their guests a taste of their fabulous wedding. A bottle of wine was the perfect remembrance.

And it wouldn’t be a fabulous california wedding without amazing food. What a treat for all of their guests!

As a playful farewell, they chose to exit amidst bubbles and found these adorable champagne bottle bubbles.

One of the most special elements was Marla’s something old. The spoon holding their wedding rings in the photo below, and attached to Marla’s bouquet in the next image, is a family heirloom. It was actually a wedding gift given to her great-grandmother over 100 years ago.

The flower girl dresses were especially cute. Check out the black embroidery at the bottom.

Similar style was brought to the design on the cake.

Another special treat, the guest sign-in book. The guests participated in making this book even more special for Marla and Shawn by including their well wishes for the bride and groom within its pages.

Marla selected black magic roses and wine calla lilies for her bouquet and Shawn’s boutonniere. The merlot color scheme fit perfectly with the setting. She also included pheasant feathers, a reminder of her hometown.

One final detail to celebrate… Marla’s veil. I love the delicacy of it, so very feminine.

Despite the long distance planning, Marla and Shawn were able to put their stamp on their wedding and include so many personal touches.

Special thanks go out to all of the professionals who helped them in their efforts:
Wedding venue: Hans Fahden Vineyards, Calistoga
Caterer and Wedding Cake: Knickerbockers, St. Helena
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals, San Francisco
Florist: Claudia K Florist, St. Helena
Officiant: Harry Jackson
Limo: Bow Tie Limousine, Santa Rosa

First there was the cocktail hour, complete with sushi, a saute station and carving station. Guests were wowed by all the delicious offerings, especially the ones prepared right before their eyes.

Once the guests were seated. They received this gorgeous shrimp cocktail.

Then a beautiful salad.

The dinner concluded with a succulent Surf and Turf of lobster tail and steak.

But dessert was not far behind. The cake cutting soon followed.

And then the staff rolled out the candy bar. Guests had a blast filling up their gift boxes with all sorts of yummies.

All this talk of candy and chocolate and sweets, oh my! I need to go find a snack.