Nov
13
Jilanne and Doug’s wedding reception at Leal Vineyards was gorgeous, emotional, and downright fun. The skies were crystal clear, no fog in sight; the cool air moved in as the day progressed. The warmth of family and friends kept the party going until the very end, with a vibrant spirit of celebration.
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.
Nov
06
A lady and a gentleman, through and through, Jilanne and Doug have old world sophistication, style, generosity and kindness right to their core. I have so enjoyed getting to know them over the past year and a bit. We had a blast on their engagement session playing at the Presidio and Fort Point. Then after checking out their wedding venues, the Old Mission San Juan Bautista and Leal Vineyard, and chatting with Doug about all of their plans, we really couldn’t wait for the big day.
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!
