A Luxurious California Hills Weekend Wedding

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Location: Santa Lucia Preserve, California, USA
Setting: Private estate
Wedding season: Fall
Number of guests: 200
Wedding theme/style: Moody, cozy, romantic, eclectic.

Shelby and Ramzy first crossed paths at a Boston restaurant, where Ramzy immediately felt a connection, telling his friend, “I think I am in love with that girl.” Despite starting as a long-distance relationship, they soon began to live together for two years during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ramzy meticulously planned a proposal at the Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, inviting Shelby’s family to celebrate. Although a restaurant slip-up about dinner confirmation for 5 people nearly spoiled the surprise, it couldn’t diminish the beauty of the moment when Ramzy proposed.

BrittRenePhoto captured each moment of their wedding day with a profound sense of elegance and authenticity, transforming ordinary scenes into vivid memories. The photos showcase a remarkable ability to balance color and light, making every detail stand out beautifully. Their work not only highlights the joy and intimacy of the events but also tells a compelling story through each image.

Their wedding took place at her parents’ home, a 40-acre estate nestled in the rolling golden hills of Carmel on the exclusive Santa Lucia Preserve. From the rehearsal dinner featuring traditional Lebanese food in honor of Ramzy’s heritage to a Saturday filled with activities like a Pickle Ball tournament, golf, and hiking, guests knew they were in for an incredible weekend.

The bride, adorned in a Gahlia Lahav gown, exuded elegance with a detailed lace bodice and a flowing tulle skirt, complemented by Jimmy Choo shoes and unique earrings from Geoffrey Young Designs. Her look was a harmonious blend of classic sophistication and modern glamour.

The groom looked impeccable in his custom burgundy velvet jacket with navy detailing by Suit Supply and Del Toro Slippers, creating a sophisticated and timeless appearance.

The wedding party made a stylish entrance to the ceremony, driving in vintage cars through the picturesque hills of Carmel, perfectly encapsulating the grandness of the occasion.

The wedding ceremony took place during a lunar eclipse, adding a magical and unique backdrop to their special day. Set in Redwood Grove, the atmosphere was serene, with sleek black benches surrounded by an abundance of white florals, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.

After the ceremony, Shelby and Ramzy shared a quiet walk through the paths shaded by majestic trees, reveling in their first moments as a married couple. They then gracefully drove in a classic convertible to the reception.

During cocktail hour, guests enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere by the pool and refreshing drinks like Montenegro Spritzes while strolling the old oak-lined pathway. A guitarist played softly in the background, adding to the serene setting.

The reception embodied Shelby and Ramzy’s vision, combining coziness and romance inspired by their favorite dining experiences in New York. Black, charcoal gray, and currant were the base colors for the setting. Underneath majestic oaks and shimmering silver pendant lights, guests were treated to the five-course Italian meal served alfresco, which brought everyone closer to the intimate, softly lit atmosphere of the barn’s exterior.

“We elevated the seating experience with actual ‘host stations,’ ensuring that every guest was personally escorted to their seats,” Shelby shared.

For the afterparty, the newlyweds prepared a surprise for their guests. Shelby shared her excitement, saying, “We turned a 72-foot barn into the most beautiful Miami-style nightclub.” The transformation involved three rental companies, a private electrician, and five days of meticulous preparation.

The space came alive with a nine-piece band flown in from New York, followed by Grammy-nominated DJ Andrew Luce, who kept the dance floor buzzing. Reflecting the couple’s personal touches, the evening included an espresso bar and unique dessert choices like tiramisu and pavlova, catering to Ramzy’s coffee expertise and their fondness for distinctive flavors.