Just Before it Rained . . .

It's November 19 and the clouds are threatening but our brave Jenn and Clay don't mind . . . it's THEIR DAY!!

Ginger and Dan's Engagement Photos

Lisa Neighbor, photographer extraordinaire of Blonde Tulip, just launched her own blog and put up photos of my next bride and groom, Ginger and Dan.  I just couldn't help myself and want to share these with you.

Ginger and Dan are tying the knot at Solage Calistoga on June 18.  What a delight they have been to work with.  Fun, creative and they each have the most wonderful moms.  Could I ask for anything more?  Can't wait for the wedding.  Ginger has added her own fabulous touches to their day.  Stay tuned!

Everything 'Etsy'!!!

Is there nothing we cannot find on Etsy?!!  This is a fabulous, inventive resource for brides today.  Artists selling their wares and ideas direct to you.  One of my brides found her calligrapher in Michigan where the overhead is far lower than here in the Bay Area.  Another bride is having custom made bracelets with charms reflecting each of her bridesmaids life experiences and personality.  Truly wonderful ideas for wedding party gifts, favors and wedding decor ideas.  If you are thinking of 'Vintage' touches to your wedding, Etsy has loads of them.  Go ahead . . . dive in!

Laura and Hunter are in Style Me Pretty!

We absolutely loved working with Laura and Hunter to plan their wedding at Solage Calistoga.

to see more photos at Style Me Pretty click on the link below.  

And warm hugs to the fabulous photographer, Sylvie Gil.

www.stylemepretty.com/2010/08/25/solage-calistoga-wedding-by-sylvie-gil/

Keeping it Casual the Night Before

Many couples coming to wine country want to keep the rehearsal party a bit more casual than the wedding day.  They might opt for a BBQ in a vineyard or a family style meal in an old barn or at a rustic winery with a bocce court and picnic tables with views overlooking vineyards.  The family in these photos held it at their apple farm with vintage touches and dining in the 100 year old apple barn.  They ended the night with 'make your own' ice cream sundaes.  Everyone had a wonderful time getting acquainted in a kick back, 'no pressure' atmosphere.

It's a Secret!

As a wedding planner, many of us have our exclusive wedding venues that may only be available through us.  The property owners are rather selective about hosting a wedding at their special spot in wine country.  Most of them will only want to host one or two weddings each year and definitely want a 'professional' to handle all of the management and answer the 100's of questions that come up in the planning.  These properties are not advertised or listed in any publication and are very private.  Many of them have stunning views of vineyards.  Do ask about one of those 'secret' and very select properties.  I'll send you a few photos and we can schedule a site visit to make your decision.

Style Me Pretty Features Kristine and Spencer

We absolutely adored Kristine and Spencer.  Coming all the way from Michigan for days of visiting wineries and dining at all the best restaurants in our Napa Valley.  THEN the fabulous wedding at Beaulieu Garden.  Read more of their story on "Style Me Pretty".