Fresh Late Summer Wedding in California


















We’ve always loved outdoor weddings, and we’ve always loved summer weddings, so bring them together and our team is guaranteed to be happy. Amanda and Bryan’s summertime California wedding somehow feels fresh and inviting, doesn’t it? Lush foliage, much of it foraged from the Sonoma countryside by designer Sarah Winward, is to be credited for bringing in that sense of freshness: though the ceremony was held in a courtyard, the greenery arrangements spilling down the aisle and the incredible floral and foliage archway create the ambiance of an outdoor garden. Sweet pops of yellow ranging from lemon to mustard made their way into the floral palette, brightening the typical “white and green” palette to produce a light, cheerful feel.

Read on for more details from the planner, Laurie Arons:
“The wedding of Sonoma couple Amanda & Bryan was a true reflection of they valley in which they live. They chose to get married in the ruins of Annadel Estate Winery, a romantic and intimate setting to say their vows. Floral designer Sarah Winward constructed a full floral arch at the alter, and filled the ruins with lush arrangements down the aisle. Known for her knack for foraging, Sarah included greenery from the Sonoma countryside through the wedding.  

In keeping with the ancient feel of the ruins, Amanda wore an intricate veil with her lace Lihi Hod gown. She surprised Bryan with her processional song, having secretly arranged for Synchronicity Strings to accompany a singer & ukele player perform Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Bryan’s two daughters played an important part in the ceremony, signifying the new family the four of them were creating. And for the final surprise of the ceremony, a flight of doves were released at the moment of their kiss. 

Since Bryan is the executive chef at Sonoma’s St. Francis Winery, it’s no surprise the couple focused on serving incredible food alongside the wines of Annadel Estate Winery. Amanda & Bryan worked with the girl and the fig CATERS, the off-premise caterer from the acclaimed Sonoma restaurant. Local and seasonal ingredients were featured, capped off by a fresh ’naked cake’ from local Crisp Bake Shop. 

Guests dined and danced in a sail cloth tent, which Sarah Winward adorned with tree branches for a natural feel. The band Ground Control was the hit of the evening, with guests crowding the dance floor and having a ball.”

Planner: Laurie Arons | Florist: Sarah Winward | Photographer: Aaron Delesie | Videographer: Lola Video | Venue: Annadel Estate Winery | Hair & Makeup: TEAM hair & makeup | Catering: the girl and the fig CATERS | Cake: Crisp Bake Shop | Bride’s gown: Lihi Hod from Marina Morrison | Bridesmaids dresses: Zimmermann | Ceremony music: Synchronicity Strings | Dinner band: Ground Control, from Elan Artists | Tenting: Zephyr Tents | Lighting: Illusions Lighting | Table Top Rentals: Casa de Perrin | Linens: La Tavola Fine Linens