Our last post was all about the beauty leading up to and through their wine cave ceremony. And now we share sunset portraits and one fabulously good party.

First up the bridal party, with signature white parasols, courtesy of Viansa.

And then some alone time enjoying the magnificent valley scenery as the sun was beginning to set. Warm light made their skin glow. Well, that, and the happy day.

So many beautiful spots to shoot. We honestly could have photographed here all day.

But we had a party to attend. And the guests were waiting.

Grand entrance through the bridesmaid and groomsmen gauntlet. Love that the girls took the guys sunglasses and handed off their bouqets to the gents.

Yup.

First dance.

Finished off with a dip.

Kiss, please!

Father-daughter dance.

Fooling around in the photo booth.

Check out this super fun ring shot. They had the letters on their dessert bar table. Picked up the little chairs which were holding the escort cards, and then placed the rings on each chair. Love the connection to their day.

All around good times and simply stunning wedding. Congrats to Soo Jin and Roger and thanks to all those who made it a spectucular wedding!

They both got ready at a private home with Roger and the boys taking over the main house, and Soo Jin and the ladies enjoying the guest house by the pool. Not a bad way to enjoy a destination wedding really.

Her dress and the view from her pad.

Roger primping and prepping.

The boys downed a shot of something- not sure what- but here’s how it went down. Hmmm….

Meanwhile, Soo Jin was getting gussied up. Finishing touches on her dress.

They decided to do a first look before their ceremony so that they could take portraits without time constraints at Viansa. Roger was peeking before he was supposed to. Who can blame him?

He made up for it with kisses.

And then the ceremony began. It took place in the wine caves, lit by candles. Beautiful and romantic!

Clearly a happy couple! And more to come from sunset portraits and the reception fun.

But I am getting a little ahead of myself, because I left off at the end of the ceremony with Suzanne and Andy ready for their celebration. They continued with the cocktail hour on the patio. We had finished all of the formal portraits before the ceremony but they wanted to grab a few with their friends. Check out this image Dave captured of Andy and the boys.

Everyone headed inside for the reception. On the way, they were treated to some great details. Including family wedding photos in two spots and a little bird cage, complete with bird, to hold cards.

And check out Suzanne’s bouquet, loved the rich dark centers of these calla lillies.

I am always enamored when people wear hats to weddings. We so rarely wear hats for the sake of wearing hats these days; I think it makes a beautiful statement about the specialness of the day.

As soon as they entered, Suzanne and Andy made their way to the dance floor for their first dance. I was so excited to capture the dip.

Perhaps one of the most exciting parts of getting married and one of the few things that feels immediately different is the new piece of jewelry you wear to symbolize the occasion. Suzanne and Andy happily showed theirs off.

A welcome toast from Suzanne’s parents.

And from her dearest friends to "Anne and Andy." (Sidenote, perhaps one of the coolest things from this wedding is how many friends Suzanne and Andy have from throughout their lives. We did a photo of everyone who went to the same high school as Suzanne and there were like 20 people in the group. I am so amazed that she keeps in touch with and is still close to so many friends from that period in her life.)

And then things got started on the dance floor. It didn’t take long for this crew to show their appreciation for the music.

Makes me want to sing at the top of my lungs to some really loud music.

Which is exactly what Suzanne did with a few of her girlfriends, on the stage. Unbelievable! Awesome! So much fun!!!

Many thanks to Suzanne and Andy for including us in your day! It was an absolute joy celebrating with you.

And much gratitude to all of the fabulous professionals who helped make the day special for Suzanne and Andy:
Ceremony and Reception venue: Amanda Harris from StoneTree Golf Club
Getting ready site: Courtyard Marriott
Wedding coordinator: Shana Goldberg of Dee Merz
Caterer: Amanda Harris for Elaine Bell
Dessert treats: It’s-It Ice Cream
Floral design: Millita from Grant Avenue Florist
Rentals: Suzie from Big 4 Party Rentals
Band: Kalie from Pop Rocks
Ceremony musician: Glenn Carter
Hair: Nicole Hitchcock of NH2
Make-up: Nicole Saysette
Wedding Gown Designer: Matthew Christopher
Groom’s suit: Theory
Invitations: Spark
Save the dates: Costco

Special thanks to Brian Lee who joined as as a third photographer for this amazing wedding!

I wouldn’t blame you if you wanted more, more, more. And if that’s the case, check out their sneak peek, slideshow and their engagement session. Enjoy!

Suzanne and Andy chose to see each other before their ceremony. They had a private moment in the gardens at StoneTree Golf Club to drink each other up. Suzanne approached Andy and teased him a little before she asked him to turn around.

He couldn’t stop looking at her. She was absolutely stunning.

We took the opportunity to do their portraits before hand. Not only did they look their freshest and had plenty of time for some great photos, but they were then able to enjoy all of their cocktail hour. It was the perfect choice for them.

So sweet and fun together.

I adored Suzanne’s dress. It was perfect on her- the best combination of sexy, glamorous, and playful. Check out the awesome mini-accordion crinoline underneath. Great texture.

And then it was time for these two to get hitched. Andy waited patiently at the end of the aisle for his bride to enter.

She walked in on her dad’s arm. And here, I have to take a little detour from the wedding narrative, because I got to hear a lot about Suzanne’s dad on the car ride from the hotel to StoneTree. He was an angel helping out with the wedding. Anything Suzanne or her mom needed, he took care of it. In fact, her mom said something along the lines of, "I love your dad more than ever today." She was so proud of and amazed by him. Probably the sweetest thing I have ever heard a mother of the bride say about her husband on her daughter’s wedding day. Really.

And now back to the story… Looks like he was pretty happy to help out, and especially happy to have his daughter on his arm.

The ceremony was beautiful, under clear blue skies.

With the rings, it became official.

And the celebration began immediately following the pronunciation of husband and wife. Let the party begin!

Did I say party? You betcha. Absolutely do not miss this one- coming soon. The 80′s cover band knocked our socks off and kept this party rocking!

Starting with the birdsong backdrop during their portrait session.

During their first dance, guests enjoyed watching our couple show off their moves.

While they were visiting tables, a Persian game between the bride and groom and their guests turned into a spontaneous dance party.

Mina and George are not the only ones who felt the inspiration to dance. Almost instantly everyone was on the dance floor.

Mina and George took center stage.

Taking a break from the music, for a few toasts.

A sweet slow song.

Girls just want to have fun… with the bouquet toss. This one taken by our associate, Brian Lee. The ladies had such a good time.

Boys! Boys! Boys! The garter toss. Mina giving George a little instruction about what to do and not to do.

One boy getting psyched up for the garter.

Closing the evening out with a lullaby, my favorite by Brian. This young lady was pooped from all the fun.

What a pleasure it was photographing Mina and George and their families, such fun spirits. Thank you for including us.

And much gratitude to the team of professionals who made their day so lovely:
Getting Ready Venue: San Ramon Marriott
Ceremony and Reception Site: Canyon View
Cake: City of D’lights
Floral design: San Francisco Florist
DJ: Aykut
Hair and Make-up: Victoria’s Salon
Wedding gown: Jenny Packham at Nouvelle Vogue
Invitations and other products: Lovebirds Stationary

Can’t get enough of this musical duo? I don’t blame you. For more of Mina and George, check out their engagement session, sneak preview, and slideshow.

Guests traveled from near and far. Even Mina and George came all the way from Chattanooga, Tennesee. One of the other exciting elements for everyone was the fabulous Tri Valley view. Mina and George chose the Canyon View because the terrace offered 270 degree views of the gorgeous California hills.

Mina and George both got ready at the nearby Marriott hotel. Dave hung out with George as he prepped.

Loving the detail on Mina’s shoes and best of all George did all of the crafty work to add the bling. Seriously. He put on all of the crystals. Pretty amazing, no?

When Mina arrived from the hair salon, it was time to get into her dress.

Mina and George didn’t have a traditional bridal party, but Mina’s best friend Sarah was the best unofficial maid of honor ever. She helped Mina get all gussied up, and kept the whole day running smoothly.

Loving all the details of Mina’s look, from her sparkly earrings…

To the stunning back of her dress. And everything in between.

As soon as Mina was ready, we brought George to the hotel garden where they would see each other for the first time. Check out the big smile on his face as Mina walks towards him.

We took a few portraits of our bride and groom before heading to Canyon View for the ceremony.

The ceremony was held on the terrace.

I was particularly taken with the officiant’s use of the iPad. Never would have thought of that, especially given how bright out it was, but it seemed to work great for him.

Part of the tradition is for family friends to hold a canopy above the couple during the ceremony.

When the officiant asks the bride for her hand on behalf of the groom, she doesn’t speak at first. He asks 3 times and finally she says "Baleh." This moment is full of joy and laughter. Here it was captured by our associate Brian.

And one of my personal favorite moments from the ceremony. Mina and George give each other a taste of the honey from the sofreh. Sweet and sexy.

And just a hint of what’s to come, here’s one from their portrait session.

More soon from their fabulous party.

But if you want to see more of Mina and George now, check out their engagement session PicFlick.

After their wedding at the Old Mission San Juan Bautista, we took portraits on the grounds in and around the mission church.

Then everyone returned to the vineyard for cocktail hour outside on the patio and dinner under the tent. We captured a few more with the vineyard backdrop.

The tables were all set up for dinner. The grounds at Leal are gorgeous- and smell good too- the yummy scent of heather is so welcoming..

Jilanne and Doug opened up the dance floor.

Followed by Jilanne and her dad. So sweet.

Doug escorted his mom to the dance floor, and they were soon joined by his siblings in a dance/hug. Doug is so close with his family. I was truly touched in the ways they supported each other.

With dance floor open, the party really got underway. There were some mighty exuberant guests.

The money dance kicked things up a notch.

Energetic dancing galore.

Jilanne and Doug closed the dance floor with a tango. We had seen them practice during their engagement session, and this was even better. They are simply stunning dancers.

Many, many thanks to Jilanne and Doug, and both your families for welcoming us into your wedding day celebration. We have so enjoyed getting to know you and it was such a pleasure to meet all the people you hold dear.

We would also like to thank the professionals who contributed to your special day.
Ceremony Venue: Rosie at the Old Mission San Juan Bautista
Organist: Edward from the Old Mission San Juan Bautista
Reception Venue: Andrew at Léal Vineyards
Wedding cake: Just Cake
Floral Design: Poppy’s Petalworks
Lighting Design: Hartmann Studios
DJ: Prosound Entertainment
Hair and Make-up Stylist: Athena
Our bride’s dress: Alvina Valenta, from the Bridal Galleria
The bridesmaids dresses: J. Crew
Groom’s suit: Hugo Boss
Groomsmen’s attire: Alfani Red

If you would like to see more of Jilanne and Doug, definitely check out their engagement session, sneak preview, and slideshow.

So today I get to share just a little snippet of what’s to come.

Jilanne and Doug started their day at Leal, where they both got ready in the guest houses. Jilanne was practically all set when we arrived. Just a few finishing touches like the veil. I love the softness of this image; it matches Jilanne’s gentle side (mind you she also has a very spunky side, like when she told me about the prank she and Doug had thought about pulling on Dave and I for their engagement session- too funny!) but this one is all about her femininity.

And Doug was already hanging out with his friends in the wine tasting room. Smart thinking.

The girls and I hopped in the limo for our trip to the Mission. When we arrived, we made sure the coast was clear as Jilanne and her ladies walked to the church.

Doug was just around the corner at the entrance to the church with his groomsmen, all of the sponsors and the ring bearer.

The ceremony was so beautiful; the back drop of this historic mission was a perfect setting.

Another perspective…

I love the way Jilanne and Doug enjoyed themselves during the Catholic ceremony. They were totally in tune with each other.

And they were certainly not alone in being affected by the momentousness of the day.

When I first saw this image Dave captured, I fell in love with it. It feels to me exactly how it feels to be leaving the wedding ceremony- like you are embarking on something big and exciting and bathed in sunshine and warmth. I can feel Jilanne and Doug’s smiles even though I can’t see them in this image.

More to come next week. Can’t wait to share the rest!

Ellen arrived at Hans Fahden ready to go. Her sisters, mom, best friend, and neice got ready alongside her. She put some finishing touches on her make-up, and then put on her dress.

When Ellen and Edwin met each other at the end of the aisle, all of the built up emotions found an outlet- in laughter and in tears of joy.

Edwin’s parents watched on.

Ellen and Edwin sealed their commitment to each other with a kiss.

After the ceremony, we gathered the families together for portraits. Ellen’s sisters and best friend are hilarious. They teased Edwin with a long list of mandate’s regarding how to take care of Ellen. He was a very good sport.

Portraits of Ellen and Edwin in the gardens.

I love the way the gaze at each other.

Dinner in the wine cave soon followed. It’s so romantic in there- candles and flowers warm up the space.

As it turns out, Edwin’s friends are also hysterical. His best man gave a truly fabulous speech, which included actual emails Edwin had written during his courtship of Ellen. My favorite quote, "Game on!"

After dinner, Ellen and Edwin cut their cake. I am completely enamored with this colorful cake- actually a perfect representation of the feel of their day- bright, sunny, sweet.

Their first dance, as seen through the eyes of Ellen’s neice.

The father daughter dance. I can totally see where Ellen gets her joie de vivre.

Edwin getting down on the dance floor.

At the very end of our evening, Ellen and Edwin took their turn in the photo booth for a few shots. They have such a great sense of humor- the costumes were perfect and they totally played up the part. This is the very lost shot, as they tell the paparazzi, aka Dave, no more.

Special thanks to all of the professionals who made the day so special:

Andi and the team at Hans Fahden Winery
Sharon Van Geisen from Park Avenue Catering
Mary Ann Parker from Fleur de Lisa for their exquisite cake
Peggy Blatchford for the floral design
DJ Alexander Hansen from AMS Entertainment
Alisa from The Powder Room for her styling of Ellen’s hair
Groom and groomsmen’s attire by Hugo Boss
Margot Piper, Maid of Honor, and talented graphic designer for the printed materials

And to Ellen and Edwin, you are two amazingly adventurous kindred spirits- birds of a feather. It has been such a pleasure getting to know you. We are delighted that we could be a part of your celebration, and we can’t wait to see those photos from Guyana.

Want to see more? Check out their sneak peek on Facebook and their wedding movie.

Without further ado….

Lauren’s gorgeous dress, in the master suite at the private residence.

Lauren getting ready with her bridesmaids, a good friend and her sister-in-law Emily.

The finishing touches…

The true fun begins, Lauren walks down the aisle on her father’s arm. Her smile made everyone in the area smile along with her.

Their ceremony was held on the front lawn of the estate under a gorgeous old oak tree.

During the ceremony, Lauren’s Spanish family shared a reading.

After the ceremony, we took a few moments for portraits around the estate. I love how her magenta bouquet matches the bougainvellia.

A little into the evening, we stepped out for a few minutes to capture some images as the sun set. The light was absolutely stunning streaming through the valley. And Lauren and Steve were able to enjoy a few private moments.

Dave captured this image of their reflection in the pool. I love the dreamy, watercolor quality of it- all done in camera.

The reception got going with a fabulous meal, great speeches, and good times all around. There were definitely tears during the ceremony. But once the party got started, Steve and Lauren were cracking up non-stop.

All of their guests surrounded them when they took the dance floor for their first dance.

They danced to an upbeat swing song. The movement was so much fun, absolutely perfect for these two.

Lauren dancing with her dad.

Steve with his mom.

Our closing photo from the evening. What a idyllic way to celebrate, under the stars, under the lights, on a perfect evening.

We have so many people to acknowledge and thank for making Lauren and Steve’s wedding a dream come true.

First, Heather from Colette Cuccia Wedding & Event Design. She and her partner made sure everything about the day ran smoothly. A huge success!

Also, a shout out to Ginger at Studio 519 for Lauren’s beautiful hair, with touch-ups by Lauren’s fabulous sister-in-law to-be Leah. And to Justin Alexander Bridal who completed her look with that gorgeous gown.

For the lovely bridesmaids, kudos go out to Jasmine Bridal for their B2 collection. And to Jos. A Bank for the guys.

The paper goods and gifts set the tone for their day:
Invitations: Union Street Papery
Save-the-Dates and other printed materials: Little Lulu
Favors: beau coup

The party and party design were amazing. Huge congrats and thanks to the following:
Caterer: Paradise Catering
Wedding Cake: Layers
Floral Design: Kathryn Smith Flowers
Lighting Design and Plants: Plant Tenders
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals
DJ: Daryl Lowery
Video: Dream Media Weddings

And lastly, to Lauren’s dad Phil, you are amazing! The flowers you planted around the ceremony site brought the space to life. All I can say is: Wow!

Thank you so much, Lauren and Steve, for including us in your wedding day. We are so glad we could be a part of it.

And for those of you who would like a few more from this gorgeous wedding, check out their Sneak Preview and their Slideshow.