We are both pretty shy people, so being on the other side of the camera getting our pictures taken for hours & being the center of attention was nerve-wracking to say the least. But looking back, I wouldn't trade these photos for the world!
We had such a perfect day: it was intimate (around 75 of us total), full of family & love, casually elegant, and comfortable. We ate good food, drank good wine, and soaked in every second. I'm so excited to finally share it all with you!
Getting Ready
I spent the night before our wedding at The Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort & Spa. Having that night before & morning of to myself really gave me the chance to let it all sink in.
I looked through old pictures, I listened to our wedding music, I cried happy tears, and I actually got the best night's sleep. Then I had a slow morning, ate a delicious in-suite breakfast, and even did a mini hotel room workout to keep my mind calm & clear.
I started getting ready (hair first), and then my mom (and little brother!) came to join me. I did my own hair & makeup, which I loved. I even did my mama’s makeup which was so special.
My brother laid on the couch in my suite & watched random car shows while we got ready, before heading over to pick up Dathan. It just felt so normal & calming to have those two with me getting ready, which is exactly what I wanted before such a big, exciting day.
Rain was in the forecast the whole week leading up to the wedding, but we only got a few drops. The sun even peeked out right as it set before the ceremony.
The First Look
Dathan knew the look I was going for- casual yet elegant, and simplistic. But he hadn't seen the actual dress, and I'm pretty proud of myself for keeping it a secret & not showing him the pictures before the wedding!
I couldn't believe how beautiful our floral arrangements were. It seriously brought everything together just how I had pictured. That, and the music! ;)
I helped Dathan choose his shoes, belt, and tie- but he surprised me with his suit. And I could have just stared at him all night long!
We took tons of family photos all night long, which was so important to us!
The Ceremony
Our ceremony took place at sunset, so I loved our florist's idea of placing candles all around us. Did I mention she's my mom's best friend? She did such a beautiful job, she was like the fairy godmother for the night!
Murrieta's Well is a historic wine estate in Livermore, CA- very close to our home. We love the character and the natural beauty, and knew it had to be our venue!
Our nephew, Casey, was the star of the night (we were so grateful he stole some of the attention) and our ring bearer.
We had a small, intimate wedding with only our family and closest friends-who-are-like-family. No bridal party, so first down the aisle was Dathan's parents, followed by my mom & brother.
I walked down the aisle to my favorite song of all time, "Stand By Me", which gets me every time.
We had just met our officiant, Chris, when we started planning our wedding- but we felt like we had known him forever as we stood up there. He made us feel so comfortable, and fit right in with our families.
Seeing all of our loved ones together in one place was my favorite part of the night.
& just like that, he's stuck with me.
Cocktail Hour
We mingled with our guests for a bit on the upstairs terrace while everyone ate hors d'oeuvres & sipped their drinks under plenty of heat lamps.
Then we were able to sneak away and get the first glimpses of the reception setup while the finishing touches were still happening. It was breathtaking.
Dinner Reception
My dad gave a beautiful, heartfelt toast, complete with a little jab at Dathan for taking so long to pop the question! ;)
We shared our first dance to an Otis Redding song, "For Your Precious Love". And the whole world disappeared.
We chose a Van Morrison song to dance with our parents, and invited the rest of the mothers & sons and fathers & daughters in the family to join us. One of my favorite moments of the night.
There are so many more details I cannot wait to share with you! From the little touches like stationery, a charm of my sweet Grandma, & our beautiful favors- to breaking down my hair & makeup products used and all of my accessories! Stay tuned. & Thank you for coming along on this journey with me!
Our Vendors
- Wedding Venue: Murrieta's Well
- Flowers & Decor: Elizabeth Price, Bloomster's
- Photography: Apollo Fotografie
- Officiant: Chris Thielen
- Catering: Wente Vineyards
- Dress: Kinsley James, fitting by Jila Tailoring Studio
- Hair & Makeup: done by me- full blog post to come!
If you are reading this & married yourself, I would love it if you'd leave any wedding advice for us in the comments. Also, what were your most memorable wedding moments that you'll never forget? I'd love to hear. xo
4 comments:
My best advice is to remember that he is your partner and friend, NOT the enemy. When you're tired of socks on the floor, forgive him and remember that he forgives you for your flaws. And keep the spark alive. If you don't feel it, fake it. It will show up. And congratulations!!! You make a beautiful bride.
So beautiful, Jessie! You both look so happy! I second everything Rebecca mentioned. Staying happily married takes patience and effort, but it's easier when you work together. Forgiveness is vital, as is nurturing that spark. Marriage is definitely more fun when the flame is alive and well! Congratulations! Wishing you a long and happy life together!
Thank you so much Rebecca & Jeanine! I'm so going to refer back to these messages! :)
Wedding day is nonetheless special for groom and bride both. Table arrangements done at your party are exquisite enough to gain applauses from guests. Wan to go for such woody and yellow lighting ambience with white flowers for my sister's engagement too. Looking for a suitable event venue Atlanta online. All the bookings will be done online.
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