Location: Carmel Valley, California, US
Setting: Ranch
The number of guests: 140
Wedding Season: Fall
How long did the couple plan the event: Around 1,5 years
Wedding theme/style: Classic, moody garden party, florals, black and pops of gold.
Adam and Kristine met in college through one of her best friends. Adam was a skater boy and initially didn’t catch Kristine’s eye, but they soon became friends, and their relationship evolved into a classic will-they-won’t-they scenario. By her junior year and his senior year, they had become best friends and decided to start dating. At Adam’s graduation, his mom asked Kristine how she should introduce her to others: “Can I say you’re his girlfriend?” Kristine shrugged and said, “Sure!” They’ve been inseparable ever since. Seven years later, Adam proposed to Kristine with a stunning Susie Saltzman ring in Bigfork, Montana, surrounded by their best friends, who later became their officiant and best man. After a two-year engagement, they celebrated their wedding with their closest friends and family on November 4, 2023, at Gardener Ranch in Carmel Valley, CA. In May 2024, they celebrated a decade of being together. Their wedding wish was simple: to throw an unforgettable party and weekend they would never forget.
Kristine’s wedding morning was joyful and special. Her makeup was classic and elegant, featuring soft, natural tones that enhanced her features without overpowering her look. Her hair was styled in loose waves, giving her a romantic and timeless appearance. Kristine chose an elegant “Violetta” dress by Sarah Seven, which fit her perfectly and complemented the overall theme of the wedding. The dress was simple yet sophisticated, with clean lines and a beautiful flow.
Kristine’s morning was also full of special touches: “My bridesmaids put together an album with pictures and letters from each of them, which were so sweet and special, I cried as I read every letter!” She gave the bridesmaids and the officiant dainty gold necklaces with their initials. These heartfelt gestures added to the emotional and intimate atmosphere of the morning.
On the wedding morning, Adam and his groomsmen were busy getting ready. Adam wore a classic tuxedo from The Black Tux, complemented by polished black shoes from the same brand. As a personal touch, V. Chapman created custom pocket squares for the groom, groomsmen, their fathers, the ring bearer, and an uncle, all featuring a Carmel Valley Rose print. These details added a unique and personal element to their wedding attire. A moment was also shared with Adam’s dog, adding a touch of warmth to the preparations.
They had a first look that was really special. The setting was serene and beautiful, adding to the intimacy of the moment. Kristine shares: “Little did I know, my dad, uncle, and all the groomsmen were able to see us, which in hindsight is really special that they were able to witness it.”
The wedding ceremony took place at Gardener Ranch on the Riverwalk Lawn. Kristine was walked down the aisle by her father and Uncle Joe to the beautiful sounds of the Sigur Ros string quartet, specifically the song “Hoppipolla.” Raised by her single dad with the support of his seven siblings, their significant others, and her Grandma, the bride felt especially close to her Aunt Cynthia and Uncle Joe, who treated her like their own child. It was significant to her and her father to have Uncle Joe by her side on such an important day.
The couple decided to write their own vows, adding a personal and heartfelt touch to the ceremony. Their officiant, Caitlin Arndt, a close friend from college, made the ceremony even more special. Adam’s best man and childhood friend, who also happened to be Caitlin’s boyfriend, added to the intimate and personal atmosphere of the wedding.
Adam grew up in Monterey, not too far from Carmel Valley, and Kristine grew up in the Bay Area, so they knew we wanted to get married near where they grew up. The bride took inspiration from planners Smith + James, as she helped to work a handful of weddings and got an idea of what she liked and didn’t like by being on the event day team.
Envisioning a garden party ambiance with a hint of moody tones for the season, Kristine leaned towards a color scheme of florals, greenery, black, and gold. Collaborating with Cheri Rainwater brought their dream to life. The tables were elegantly set with white linens, black napkins, and gold cutlery, creating a sophisticated and clean look. The place settings were complemented by delicate floral arrangements featuring white flowers and green foliage, adding a fresh and natural touch to the decor. The tables were adorned with tall, white taper candles in gold holders, providing a warm and inviting ambiance. The overall arrangement suggested a warm, intimate gathering where guests could comfortably mingle and enjoy the celebration.
The newlyweds’ wedding was inspired by a classic, moody garden party theme with florals, black accents, and pops of gold. They wanted to ensure every detail was perfectly documented, so they invited photographer Carol Oliva to capture their special day. Carol’s artistic and meticulous approach beautifully captured all the emotions and the smallest touches of Kristine and Adam’s wedding day, preserving each moment with stunning clarity and creativity.
The reception at Gardener Ranch was a magical setting for Adam and Kristine’s celebration. As the newlyweds entered to the upbeat tune of “Back Pocket” by Vulfpeck, the atmosphere was filled with love and joy. Surrounded by friends and family, the evening was warm and intimate, with everyone coming together to share in the happiness of the newlyweds. Adam added: “I remember just being so elated and overjoyed and so happy. I do not think I have ever been that happy in my whole life. I can’t explain it.”
Special entertainment at their wedding included a unique touch – the newlyweds hired Jo Politis, a tattoo artist from The Gallery Tattoos, to tattoo their guests. Adam, who has a sleeve done by Jo and has known her since high school, thought it would be a fun idea when she suggested it during one of his sessions. “We didn’t realize how popular it would be!” added the couple. Over 50 people signed up, but she could only do a handful, including the groom, who got a bee tattooed on his arm as a nod to couple’s first dance song. They selected a few designs ahead of the wedding for people to choose from and also included all the horoscopes as a nod to the bride’s love for the zodiac.
The night continued with the newlyweds and their guests dancing the night away. “Lucky Devils live band performed, and they were amazing!” It was a truly magical day for Kristine and Adam to share with their loved ones.
Advice from the couple:
• Tory Smith from Smith + James gave us this advice before our wedding day – she said, make sure to ground yourselves by taking moments to connect with each other and identify things going on during the chaos to help slow down the day as it all goes by so fast.
• Hire a photographer for your rehearsal dinner! We wish Carol Oliva had been at ours to document. If you’re not going to, make sure you ask some trustworthy friends or family to take pictures, both posed and candid.
• Skip traditional party favors—they are not necessary at all.
• Do all the things that are important to you, regardless if it’s a tradition or something new. You will only throw a party like this once in your life. If I could do it every year, I would.
PHOTO Carol Oliva | PLANNER, DESIGN, CATERING & FLORALS Castle Rock Events | VIDEO EC Videos | VENUE Gardener Ranch | MUAH Kelly Jo | BRIDAL DRESS Sarah Seven | SECOND OUTFIT Before | JEWELRY Susie Saltzman, Reverence Jewelry | BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES V.Chapman | CAKE Layers Sensational Cakes | TATTOO ARTIST The Gallery Tattoos | RENTALS & LIGHTING Chic Event Rentals | MUSIC Lucky Devils Band | REHEARSAL DINNER CATERER Moo’s Craft Barbecue
