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 stop, Point Bonita Lighthouse- so fun- everyone was cheering and so gracious, allowing the newlyweds to cross the bridge at the head of the line.

When walking back up the hill from the lighthouse, we noticed this little path in the grasses and a fabulous view of the Golden Gate Bridge. We had to stop and enjoy the scenery.

We had parked by this old bunker. It was a great place to play around for a bit. All of the old, rusty metal provided great texture and contrast to Marla’s softness.

We concluded our tour at Rodeo Beach for a little wave action and an opportunity to Trash the Dress.

Yes, they got wet and yes, it was very, very cold. These two were such troopers though. I was amazed!

We really got so lucky with the weather and the day turned out to be perfect. If you want to see more from their TTD session and their wedding, definitely take a look at their slideshow, their sneak preview, and their scoop.

A few of my favorite bits from the day:
Dave purchased his tux. He knew it would be tailored perfectly if he owned it and he wanted to look his absolute best for Leah. He even spent some time ironing earlier in the day.

Leah gave Dave a special cologne and Dave gave Leah a special perfume as a wedding gift. They had learned that emotion tied to scents are uniquely suited to bring back memories; they selected new scents for their special day so they had another way to recall their joy. I love this.

They wanted the first time they saw each other to be private and intimate. It was so beautiful.

Leah didn’t even blink at the cold, and it was cold. She looked totally relaxed for all of their portraits, and there were lots. She’s one tough lady.

Dave and his twin brother Mark took a moment before the ceremony. I don’t know what they said to each other, but I loved watching their closeness.

The look on Leah’s dad’s face when he was giving her away.

When Emily (wife of Dave’s brother Mark) and Steve (husband of Dave’s sister Lauren) had a special welcome for Leah as the newest in-law.

Oh boy, I have a lot of favorites. I could go on all night. But perhaps I should get to some photos….

So here’s the rest of their story. Starting with the ceremony.

I love this photo of Dave waiting for Leah to walk down the aisle, with Mark watching him. Dave has already seen Leah on their wedding day, in her wedding dress. And there is definitely something different and equally special about this moment. You can see it in his eyes.

Their ceremony was held under the stars in the pavilion on the grounds of Wine and Roses in Lodi, California. The candles, lanterns and flowers added so much romance to the space.

Leah’s parents enjoyed the ceremony…

As did Leah.

It was also filled with emotion.

Dave’s dad found the newlyweds after the ceremony for a congratulatory hug.

Leah and Dave’s reception was in the ballroom, a beautiful warm lodge-like space. They sat a sweetheart table in front the fireplace and enjoyed a toast to their new status.

First dance.

I mentioned this toast by Emily and Steve. Emily not only welcomed Leah to the family, but also shared advice on living with one half of a pair of twins. Emily is married to Dave’s twin and so she knows all about it.

Then the party got underway.

Some guests were caught up in the romance of the day.

Others got into the dancing frenzy with Dave.

The dance floor was never empty, to be sure.

What a great night, all around! And for those who can’t get enough, a little PicFlick….

If you want to see more from Leah and Dave’s stunning wedding at Wine and Roses, definitely check out their slideshow.

And a big thank you to all of the professionals who helped make their day so special.
Event planners: Emily Mattos and Kristen Jensen from Sugar Rush Events
Ceremony and Reception Venue and Catering: Wine and Roses
Gown Designer: Reem Acra
Make-up artist: Mina Drake
Cake: River City Cake Company
Floral Designer, lighting and room decor: The Big Bang
Rentals: Stuart Rental Company
Ceremony musician: guitarist Davis Ramsey
DJ: Music By Brian

But the greatest thanks go out to Leah and Dave. We have so loved getting to know you both and are thrilled that we could be a part of your celebration. And so much gratitude to your wonderful families. We love you all!

Just to give you a taste of their amazing style and their joyous day, here’s a sneak peek of all the fun before the ceremony….

First a few details.

Leah got ready in the bride’s changing room, above the Garden Ballroom. She was surrounded by her mom and her bridesmaids. Love the matching track suits- and the super cute "bridesmaid" tees.

Then she donned her glimmering dress.

Definitely star appeal in this number. So much sparkle.

Leah is stunning.

Dave got ready in his twin brother, Mark‘s, room. Mark made sure that Dave looked very dapper.

 Check him out! What a handsome fellow.

Once they were both all set. They met up in a secret location to see each other for the first time on their wedding day. The privacy of their special locale made the moment even better.

Leah took a step back to get a good look at her groom. Big smiles all around.

Enjoying their alone time.

After we finished all of the portraits, the whole group went back to Leah’s getting ready room to relax, freshen up and warm up.

The boys clowning around…

Before the ceremony… I love the way Dave looks at Leah. Could he be sweeter?

Of course, this is just the beginning. Definitely check back for photos from their beautiful ceremony and their awesome party.

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.

I will get to a few more with the car later, but first it’s time for dinner. Hans Fahden has it all- those gorgeous gardens for the outdoor ceremony, the airy tea house for cocktails, and the wine cave for an elegant dinner. Marla chose to deck out the space with tall candelabras, tea lights in red glassware, and varied stemware. It looked amazingly elegant.

Before dinner, Marla’s father led a prayer.

Speeches followed soon after. Marla’s maid of honor/sister/the-person-who-introduced-Marla-to-Shawn was quite a hit. She had a list literally a mile long of advice for Shawn. Too funny!

Dinner was thoroughly enjoyed with great food and laughter.

But when the car arrived, we had to take a few photos. Here’s the whole gang…

Shawn’s girls were so cute. They played driver and drivee. They hopped in and out of the front seat and back seat, not once using the doors. It was clearly the best playground ever. Having so much fun, they were plenty happy to pose for a few peaking out the window.

We took Marla and Shawn down to the vineyard for a few portraits alone. On the way down, Dave got to ride with them. On the way back, I got to ride with them. And Dave captured this quintessential image.

We returned to the party for some serious dancing, kicked off by the happy couple’s first dance. What a beautiful embrace!

I just had to share one last image. In the sneak preview, I included the full color version of this moment from the ceremony. But Dave had worked it up with an alternate look as well. We use this technique, which is generally referred to as selective color, only occasionally, but sometimes it makes a real impact in a beautiful way. I love the choice for this image because the moment- a moment of prayer during the ceremony- is larger than life. For me, the variation in tonality gives a Greater Being a truer presence. You feel a difference.

If you want to see more, check out their Sneak Preview and their slideshow. And check back because Marla and Shawn’s Rock the Dress session is on its way.

When Shawn proposed, he pulled all the stops, recreating their first date in style. Marla was truly surprised, but didn’t hesitate. She answered with a resounding, “Absolutely!” You can just imagine the cheers.

Marla and Shawn chose to get married at Hans Fahden, one of our favorite wine country venues. They had the best weather, perfect temps and clear skies with fun streaks of clouds. The kind of clouds you almost never see in California. Plus Hans Fahden was all abloom with pinks and oranges and whites. The setting was idyllic.

Marla prepped in the bridal suite surrounded by her closest friends, her sister, her mother, and her grandmother. There was lots of laughter, and suprisingly very little nervousness. Marla seemed so calm.

Before the ceremony, we took a few portraits in the gardens. Isn’t she stunning? When I captured this, I was completely entranced by her eyes. No wonder Shawn adores her.

Here’s the 3 generations of ladies. You can totally see the family resemblance in their smiles.

Marla hid up in the bridal room while we captured a few of Shawn with his family. These are his two darling little girls. They were so good throughout the day. And you could tell they completely adore both Marla and Shawn.

The ceremony took place overlooking the pond. With under 80 guests, it was truly intimate. Marla’s dad shared a special reading for them. And other family and friends created the music.

I can’t get over how sweet Shawn is. That smile is for his daughter. Melts my heart.

Another important element of the ceremony was their faith. Their connection to each other is enhanced by their religious beliefs. They definitely found ways to make the ceremony reflect their spirituality.

Marla and Shawn not only care about each other, they care for each other. You can see it in every gesture- a deep tenderness, appreciation, and love.

The final element to their ceremony was a special ritual designed to include Shawn’s two girls. Marla and Shawn presented each girl with a special medallion which symbolized their importance in the family. After the ceremony, we asked the girls to show us their necklaces. The necklace is really beautiful, but I think my favorite part of this image is the nail polish. So precious!

And just to give you a sense of what’s to come. One portrait with Marla and Shawn in the Hans Fahden gardens!

I can’t wait to share more. Not only did they have this amazing wedding day, but we got together with them again after their wedding to do a Newlywed/ Rock the Dress session. So there will be lots more amazing photos to see.

Really exciting news- Allison and Adam’s wedding was just published in Destination Weddings and Honeymoons magazine. The mag recently hit the stands, and it looks awesome.

You can actually catch a sneak peak here. Our spread is on page 58-59. But here’s what it looks like.

Still, if you actually want to read it and see the pix better, you have to check out the real thing.

And if you want more from Allison and Adam’s wine country wedding, you can check out their wedding slideshow.