Location: San Miguel, California,US
Setting: Vineyard & Winery
The number of guests: 64
Wedding Season: Summer
Wedding theme/style: European-inspired, vintage, winery chic, romantic countryside.
Doug and Katie had known each other since elementary school and had always had a meaningful connection through their family history. Their dads and uncles grew up racing motocross together in the ’70s-80s. Even with that connection, they had never actually met. Many years later, and only by chance, they met through mutual friends over dinner, and they’ve been inseparable ever since. The level of support and togetherness that they have for each other in all aspects of their lives is something that they really value and appreciate.
From the start, the couple dreamed of having a big traditional wedding. However, halfway through the planning process, they decided to shift from that vision and instead opt for a more intimate celebration that truly represented who they were as a couple. They incorporated charming and meaningful handpicked pieces rather than sticking to a classic and modern theme. To beautifully capture their unique wedding, they enlisted the help of Sabrina Hurtado from Smiles With Sabrina, known for her detailed, romantic, and journalistic approach. She perfectly captured the essence of their Italy-inspired wedding, filled with love and joy.
Katie’s wedding morning was filled with joyous memories as she prepared for her big day surrounded by her family and bridesmaids. When Katie was a little girl, she dreamt about getting married. She told her mom, “I want a princess dress,” and that’s what she did! It was the “Natrun” style gown designed by Pronovias in ivory color, which was everything she had hoped for. The dress was a princess silhouette with a sweetheart neckline, lace with beadwork on the bodice, low waist, and open back. She went with an ivory cathedral-length veil with no embellishments to showcase the details of the dress. This classic accessory added a sense of grandeur to her bridal look, perfectly complimenting the ambiance – gently floating behind her in the soft summer breeze.
Doug chose to wear a classy tuxedo as he got ready for their enchanting Italy-inspired wedding.
Once Katie started getting ready, Doug went to the upper veranda of the venue. She sent him a note she had written on a cocktail napkin, telling him she loved him and couldn’t wait to see him. It was so special to her, and it felt effortless.
Just before the ceremony, Katie and and her dad shared a touching first look.
The ceremony space was stunning. The couple thoughtfully paid attention to every detail, providing guests with keepsake custom vintage-inspired matchbooks and parasols upon arrival to the ceremony. Instead of a garter toss and bouquet toss, they handed their florals to the couple that had been married the longest – their grandparents. The ceremony was enchanting as Katie and Doug shared heartfelt vows, followed by warm well-wishes from their family and friends.
This wedding was like stepping into a dreamy fairytale, filled with all things romantic and vintage. The couple had this incredible vision of bringing the beauty of European-inspired elegance that perfectly complimented the season and the venue’s landscape. Soft hues and elevated neutrals in their wedding palette created a sophisticated backdrop against the rolling hills.
The dinner menus and place cards were hand-drawn, adding a pop of color with mismatched china plates for the guests. The linen signage fluttered in the breeze, complementing the venue beautifully. Every detail reflected romance, thoughtfully curated by the couple.
Katie and Doug had a lovely outdoor reception surrounded by their guests’ love. They chose a vintage-style 6-inch round cake, cutting it with vintage metal coupes. The night continued with the newlyweds joyfully dancing the night away.
Advice from the couple:
• Notice all of the people who showed up for you. From your family and friends to your wedding party and vendor team that made your day memorable. Take time to practice gratitude, keeping you present and enjoying those precious moments that are often fleeting.
PHOTOGRAPHY Smiles with Sabrina | VIDEOGRAPHY Rebi Films | DAY OF COORDINATION Shelley Anne Events | VENUE Villa San-Juliette Vineyard and Winery | MUAH Juliana Sullenger | BRIDAL DRESS Pronovias | BRIDAL BOUTIQUE Here Comes The Bride | CATERING Toricella Catering | CONTENT CREATOR Her Day Social | DESSERT Max’s Cookie Company | CAKE Christine’s Cake Creations | DJ Epic Entertainment Inc. | LINEN & TABLE SETTINGS Sweet Life Vintage Rentals | OFFICIANT aVow Ceremonies
