On the morning of the wedding, I knew we’d be attending an exquisite occasion that evening, though I really didn’t realize the entire scope of what was to come. My dear friend, the bride, has a never ending level of talents, including amazing taste, thoughtfulness and passion, all of which shined through that evening.
But a few things happened before I made it to that glorious place setting.
I have to admit, it was hard for me to get out of my comfy, casually canopied bed that morning, seriously, I could have LIVED in that bed for days (and they do have great room service at The Ranch).
And this personalized stationary made me want to linger even longer, to write a thoughtful letter or two.
But, I managed to rise and shine,
and enjoy all of the lovely collectibles that made our cottage so comfortable as we got ready for the day.
We stopped by The Hacienda for advice on finding the trail,
where they were filling the wooden bowl on the desk with lemons, just picked from the grove.
We loved the dramatic views of mountains, canyons, streams, rock formations and forests on the hike, and, as a bonus, I found these almost iridescent blue feathers to stick in my cap.
Then there was lunch at Cava (which I may cover later) and then there was a brief lounging time at the pool and then, just like that, it was time for the wedding.
It was fun to be on site while the crew implemented all of the brides’ visions for the big occasion.
While I thought the garden sanctuary, where the ceremony was to be held, looked simply lovely as it was when I cruised by in the morning before the hike,
it was so much more spectacular when the Chuppah was loaded with flowers and the pale blue seat cushions were in place.
Before the ceremony we had cocktails in the garden,
near a lovely, tranquil lillypond,
next to which Monet would have loved to have perched his easel.
There actually was an easel perched nearby, and a palette… because there was an artist on the lush green lawn,
capturing the scene on canvas.
Luscious indigo paper fans, embossed with copper lettering kept us cool and let everyone know who was who and what was what and where we should be when.
The entire wedding party looked so very beautiful and happy as they walked to the front of the garden
to the gentle strumming of a guitar.
to the gentle strumming of a guitar.
After the ceremony, we found our table assignments on this rustic weathered gate ladened with hops and flowers
and butterflies.
The setting at the Stonehouse restaurant was a sight to behold, so rich with colors and textures and sheer, natural beauty… it almost looked more like a Danish Master floral painting than real life.
Mix~matched dishes and cutlery surprised each place setting.
Each of the perfectly pressed and draping white linen napkins were unique as well.
It was romantic ranch style dining at it’s finest.
Above us, delphiniums and hops provided the illusion of dining in a grape arbor.
I loved the contrast between the casual bouquets which included blackberries and scarred pomegranates
and the formal cut crystal glasses.
After the feast, toasts, lovefest, there was dancing in the courtyard of The Old Adobe at the ranch.
Our brilliant Bride had rented enticing furniture from {found}, an incredible vintage rental outfit in California, you should look at the abundance of amazing inventory on their site, much more pleasing than your usual rental fare.
The beautifully furnished adobe allowed those who needed a break from the dance floor to gather with friends in this welcoming, comfortable setting.
When we finally turned in for the night… maybe there were chocolates on our pillow, or maybe not, or maybe there were and my daughter ate them, but that’s okay…
I was completely content to find this little nosegay of rosemary, lavender, and a rose that was left on my pillow,
sigh.
sigh.
Emily,
What an inspiring, gorgeous wedding!!! There was some serious thought and planning that went into this and it must have been a truly memorable experience!!!
xoxo Elizabeth
Gorgeous post!!!
Dear Emily,
I am so impressed with every thoughtful detail for this very special wedding. The Ranch must be a getaway for me soon!
xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
Thank you for your comments, it truly was so beautiful in such a natural, comfortable way…