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Real Weddings Magazine - Summer/Fall 2019 - The Best Wedding Vendors in Sacramento, Tahoe and throughout Northern California are all here

Real Weddings Magazine is the premier wedding planning magazine and website, featuring the best wedding vendors from Sacramento to the Sierra, for today's modern couples! Get your daily dose of wedding inspiration and find your wedding dream team today—the best wedding vendors from Sacramento, Tahoe and throughout Northern California— at www.realweddingsmag.com

Real Weddings Magazine is the premier wedding planning magazine and website, featuring the best wedding vendors from Sacramento to the Sierra, for today's modern couples! Get your daily dose of wedding inspiration and find your wedding dream team today—the best wedding vendors from Sacramento, Tahoe and throughout Northern California— at www.realweddingsmag.com

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wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

sacramento to the sierra<br />

real<br />

local<br />

30<br />

REAL<br />

WEDDINGS<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM<br />

get<strong>in</strong>spired!<br />

SUMMER <strong>2019</strong><br />

STYLE. IDEAS. ADVICE.<br />

PSST...AND YOU CAN FIND ALL YOUR WEDDING VENDORS HERE TOO!<br />

DISPLAY UNTIL AUGUST 31, <strong>2019</strong><br />

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR COVER MODEL WINNER OLIVIA!<br />

OUR COVER MODEL CONTEST FINALIST SHOOT WAS PHOTOGRAPHED EXCLUSIVELY BY<br />

2 GIRLS 20 CAMERAS ON LOCATION AT THE KIMPTON SAWYER HOTEL. FOR MORE, TURN TO PAGE 89.<br />

GOWN FROM DE LA ROSA'S BRIDAL & TUXEDOS; EARRINGS BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS;<br />

BOUQUET BY AMOUR FLORIST & BRIDAL; HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY


wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g venues<br />

W<strong>in</strong>e & Roses provides the sett<strong>in</strong>g for a sm<strong>all</strong> <strong>in</strong>timate<br />

ceremony or a large reception with up to 350 guests.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Garden B<strong>all</strong>room is breathtak<strong>in</strong>g, with an open<br />

beam ceil<strong>in</strong>g, fireplace, beverage bar, <strong>and</strong> it’s own<br />

private garden of white birch trees. <strong>The</strong> Cellar Room<br />

features a stone fireplace <strong>and</strong> large french doors that<br />

open to a private patio <strong>and</strong> gardens. Our outdoor<br />

sett<strong>in</strong>gs provide plenty of room for seat<strong>in</strong>g surrounded<br />

by botanical gardens <strong>and</strong> deodar trees.<br />

the hotel<br />

W<strong>in</strong>e & Roses Hotel sits <strong>in</strong> the heart of Lodi W<strong>in</strong>e<br />

Country <strong>and</strong> features 66 rooms <strong>and</strong> suites designed to<br />

meet the needs <strong>and</strong> desires of your wedd<strong>in</strong>g party <strong>and</strong><br />

guests. Experience luxurious amenities <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g<br />

botanical gardens, a modern fitness center, beautiful<br />

pool, relax<strong>in</strong>g jacuzzi, <strong>and</strong> unpar<strong>all</strong>eled gracious<br />

hospitality.<br />

Group reservations <strong>are</strong> available.<br />

C O N TAC T 2 0 9 . 3 7 1 . 6 1 1 7 O R EM A I L sales@w<strong>in</strong>erose.com<br />

W I N E & R O S E S • 2 5 0 5 W. T U R N E R R OA D , L O D I , C A L I F O R N I A 9 5 2 4 2


<strong>in</strong>novative cuis<strong>in</strong>e<br />

Our Event Specialists work closely with the Executive<br />

Chef <strong>and</strong> his team to help you create the perfect<br />

cul<strong>in</strong>ary experience. We have the expertise to make<br />

your menu collection unique <strong>and</strong> representative of you.<br />

Towne House Restaurant at W<strong>in</strong>e & Roses features<br />

fresh, <strong>in</strong>novative dishes us<strong>in</strong>g quality, region<strong>all</strong>y sourced<br />

<strong>in</strong>gredients. Private d<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g rooms <strong>are</strong> available for a<br />

bridal luncheon or an <strong>in</strong>timate rehearsal d<strong>in</strong>ner.<br />

the spa<br />

Set <strong>in</strong> an environment of natural beauty <strong>and</strong> tranquility,<br />

the award-w<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g Spa at W<strong>in</strong>e & Roses offers spa<br />

services <strong>and</strong> packages for women, men <strong>and</strong> couples.<br />

From pedicures to preparatory packages, W<strong>in</strong>e & Roses<br />

is the perfect spa dest<strong>in</strong>ation for brides <strong>and</strong> grooms!<br />

Create the wedd<strong>in</strong>g look of your dreams <strong>in</strong> our full<br />

service, Aveda salon featur<strong>in</strong>g experienced hair <strong>and</strong><br />

makeup artists <strong>and</strong> only the highest quality products.<br />

w<strong>in</strong>erose.com


Unique, Unequ<strong>all</strong>ed<br />

&<br />

Unforgettable<br />

EVERYTHING FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY<br />

EVERYTHING FOR YOUR CELEBRATIONS


Make the breathtak<strong>in</strong>g Whitney Oaks Golf Club the backdrop for your ceremony.<br />

Complete <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Plann<strong>in</strong>g Services | First-Class Cater<strong>in</strong>g | Custom Floral Arrangements<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Cakes | Rehearsal D<strong>in</strong>ners | Bridal Showers<br />

Play & Stay at Thunder V<strong>all</strong>ey Cas<strong>in</strong>o Resort<br />

Resort & Spa Packages | Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties at Illusions <strong>and</strong> MORE!<br />

1200 Athens Avenue<br />

L<strong>in</strong>coln, CA 95648<br />

916.408.8435 • THUNDERVALLEYRESORT.COM<br />

2305 Clubhouse Drive<br />

Rockl<strong>in</strong>, CA 95765<br />

916.632.8333 x4 • WHITNEYOAKSGOLF.COM<br />

916.408.8435 • THUNDERVALLEYRESORT.COM


<strong>in</strong> this issue<br />

SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong><br />

real<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

sacramento to the sierra<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM<br />

FEATURES<br />

28<br />

EXPERT ADVICE:<br />

TIPS FROM THE PROS!<br />

<strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>’ contributor Kelley Saia checks<br />

<strong>in</strong> with local wedd<strong>in</strong>g pros to give you the<br />

<strong>in</strong>side scoop on how to save time <strong>and</strong> money,<br />

<strong>and</strong> help you get your wedd<strong>in</strong>g plann<strong>in</strong>g on<br />

track.<br />

49<br />

59<br />

69<br />

79<br />

89<br />

113<br />

STYLE / STYLED SHOOT:<br />

IN THE CLOUDS<br />

We trekked up to the top of <strong>Tahoe</strong> for this<br />

heavenly photo shoot, which perfectly<br />

married bright colors <strong>and</strong> fun textures.<br />

STYLE / STYLED SHOOT:<br />

CULTURAL FUSION<br />

<strong>The</strong> fus<strong>in</strong>g of old world <strong>and</strong> new came easy to<br />

our talented team who comb<strong>in</strong>ed their skills to<br />

create this luxurious, picture-perfect design.<br />

STYLE / STYLED SHOOT:<br />

ENDLESS LOVE<br />

Mother Nature came to play, but so did our<br />

design team! Between sun, snow <strong>and</strong> ra<strong>in</strong><br />

(yes, <strong>all</strong> on the same day!), our team created a<br />

design beautiful enough to distract you from<br />

Lake <strong>Tahoe</strong>.<br />

STYLE / STYLED SHOOT:<br />

SOMETHING OLD SOMETHING NEW<br />

Why be modern or rustic when you can be<br />

both?! We borrowed our design team to blend<br />

the two styles seamlessly, <strong>and</strong> the result blue<br />

us away!<br />

STYLE: COVER MODEL CONTEST<br />

FINALIST FEATURE: SECRET GARDEN<br />

Modern design was the focus of our first<br />

Cover Model Contest F<strong>in</strong>alist photo shoot, but<br />

our fun-lov<strong>in</strong>g real bride models Ericka <strong>and</strong><br />

Olivia took the cake!<br />

STYLE: COVER MODEL CONTEST<br />

FINALIST FEATURE: GOLD COUNTRY GLAM<br />

Our second Cover Model Contest F<strong>in</strong>alist<br />

photo shoot featured stunn<strong>in</strong>g real bride<br />

models Blythe <strong>and</strong> Curissa who managed to<br />

outsh<strong>in</strong>e gold country!<br />

89<br />

69<br />

79<br />

242 WORDS OF WISDOM:<br />

DEE & KRIS<br />

Celebrat<strong>in</strong>g 14 years of<br />

marriage...<strong>here</strong>’s their take<br />

on what makes it work.<br />

SWEET MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

59<br />

242<br />

BETHANY PETRIK PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

2 GIRLS 20 CAMERAS<br />

49<br />

VICENS FORNS FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

113<br />

22<br />

IN EVERY ISSUE<br />

10 Editor’s Letter<br />

14 Contributors<br />

22 W<strong>in</strong> Cool Stuff<br />

24 On <strong>Real</strong><strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>Mag.com<br />

26 Beh<strong>in</strong>d-the-Scenes<br />

34 Events Calendar<br />

38 For Your Review<br />

40 <strong>The</strong> Gift Guide<br />

136 Snapshots<br />

203 Style Files<br />

204 Style Files: <strong>The</strong> White List Directory<br />

216 Style Files: <strong>The</strong> Photos<br />

KATHRYN WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

FARRELL PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

6 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


<strong>in</strong> this issue<br />

SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong><br />

REAL WEDDINGS<br />

LOLITA VASQUEZ PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

142<br />

178<br />

real<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

sacramento to the sierra<br />

CHARLETON CHURCHILL PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM<br />

139<br />

139<br />

142<br />

144<br />

146<br />

148<br />

150<br />

152<br />

154<br />

156<br />

158<br />

160<br />

162<br />

Am<strong>and</strong>a & Francisco<br />

Tancy & Paul<br />

Tracy & Per<br />

Sarah & Connor<br />

Heidi & James-Phillip<br />

Chelsea & Christopher<br />

Ashley & Samuel<br />

LaKeisha & Albert<br />

Hannah & Darren<br />

Cathy & Jeff<br />

Tar<strong>in</strong> & Matt<br />

Fal<strong>in</strong>a & Michael<br />

SARAH MAREN PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

182<br />

PASSION STUDIO<br />

JENNIFER CLAPP FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

CARRIE AYN<br />

164<br />

Christ<strong>in</strong>a & Michael<br />

166<br />

168<br />

170<br />

172<br />

174<br />

176<br />

178<br />

180<br />

182<br />

184<br />

186<br />

188<br />

190<br />

192<br />

194<br />

196<br />

198<br />

Alex<strong>and</strong>ra & Samuel<br />

Maria & Krishan<br />

Jillian & Robert<br />

Olga & Michael<br />

Anna & Mark<br />

April & Dexter<br />

Jenna & Jessica<br />

Paige & Andrew<br />

Kaitl<strong>in</strong> & Evan<br />

Angela & Jason<br />

Stephanie & Matt<br />

Cora & Aust<strong>in</strong><br />

Jamie & Phillip<br />

Tami & Josh<br />

Irene & Nolan<br />

Katr<strong>in</strong>a & Daryl<br />

Jessica & Ben<br />

Want to see<br />

more photos from <strong>all</strong> of<br />

these wedd<strong>in</strong>gs? Tune <strong>in</strong> to<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com...NOW!<br />

176<br />

188<br />

DARCI TERRY PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

186<br />

KERI AOKI PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

148<br />

TEMPLE PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

& PHOTO BOOTH<br />

172<br />

WHITE DAISY<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

184 192<br />

154 168<br />

CHUCK ROBERTS PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

ERICA BALDWIN PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

152<br />

166<br />

MATTHEWS INC PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

DANIELLE ALYSSE PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

JULIA CROTEAU<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

190<br />

MONICA S PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

8 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


JESSICA ROMAN PHOTOGRAPHY / JESSICAROMAN.COM<br />

LIZ ZIMBELMAN PHOTOGRAPHY / LIZZIMBELMAN.COM<br />

MONICA S PHOTOGRAPHY / MONICASPHOTO.COM<br />

ALL-INCLUSIVE WEDDING VENUE<br />

sacramento's premier wedd<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> events venue<br />

LOCATED IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN<br />

SACRAMENTO, CA || WWW.VIZCAYASACRAMENTO.COM || 916.594.9285


EVENTS ARTFULLY PRODUCED BY<br />

AMES HAUS<br />

DESIGN + PLANNING + FLORALS<br />

editor’s letter<br />

YOU’RE UNIQUE...MAKE YOUR WEDDING UNIQUE, TOO!<br />

AMES HAUS BRIDE<br />

Photo by XSiGHT Photography & Video<br />

ROSEVILLE, CALIFORNIA<br />

WWW.AMESHAUS.COM<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHOOP’S PHOTOGRAPHY / SHOOPSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY /<br />

ALLDOLLEDUPHAIRANDMAKEUP.COM;<br />

CAKE BY BAKER & A BLACK CAT / BAKERANDABLACKCAT.COM<br />

FOLLOW WINNIE: @SUTTERSTREETPIG<br />

Yep, that’s me <strong>in</strong> a wedd<strong>in</strong>g dress eat<strong>in</strong>g cake with<br />

W<strong>in</strong>nie, <strong>The</strong> Sutter Street Pig! Why, you ask? Well, why<br />

not?! And, what does it have to do you with you plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

your wedd<strong>in</strong>g? It’s to prove a po<strong>in</strong>t. You <strong>and</strong> your beloved <strong>are</strong><br />

unique <strong>in</strong>dividuals <strong>and</strong> unique as a couple, <strong>and</strong> your wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

should be that way too. We’ve embraced this mantra s<strong>in</strong>ce we<br />

launched <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> 12 years ago—don’t do a cookie cutter<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g: Do your own th<strong>in</strong>g. If that means hav<strong>in</strong>g pig races<br />

at your wedd<strong>in</strong>g, do it (we squealed with delight when we saw<br />

this at a recent wedd<strong>in</strong>g); if you want to do the Chicken Dance<br />

at your wedd<strong>in</strong>g, own it; if you don’t want to do some of the<br />

“traditional” th<strong>in</strong>gs like a garter toss, then don’t. We th<strong>in</strong>k the<br />

most important th<strong>in</strong>g is to put together a celebration of your<br />

love that fits with your personality as a couple focus<strong>in</strong>g on the priorities you want. And, yeah, if you want<br />

to do a post-wedd<strong>in</strong>g shoot with W<strong>in</strong>nie, <strong>The</strong> Sutter Street Pig, DO IT! Trust me, it’s crazy fun!<br />

Now, let’s get started on your wedd<strong>in</strong>g plann<strong>in</strong>g! Let’s talk photo shoot <strong>in</strong>spiration: each issue we assemble teams of<br />

talented wedd<strong>in</strong>g professionals to <strong>in</strong>spire your wedd<strong>in</strong>g style, from décor <strong>and</strong> details to attire, accessories <strong>and</strong> beyond, <strong>and</strong><br />

this issue is no exception! Here, we have four dist<strong>in</strong>ctly different styled shoot vignettes: “In the Clouds,” “Cultural Fusion,”<br />

“Endless Love” <strong>and</strong> “Someth<strong>in</strong>g Old Someth<strong>in</strong>g New.” We had a lot of fun putt<strong>in</strong>g them together for you, <strong>and</strong> we hope you<br />

enjoy them. <strong>The</strong>n, check out our cover model contest f<strong>in</strong>alist features: “Secret Garden” <strong>and</strong> “Gold Country Glam.” Like <strong>all</strong><br />

of our cover model f<strong>in</strong>alist feature photo shoots, we had a great time play<strong>in</strong>g dress up—with gorgeous hair, makeup, accessories,<br />

bouquets <strong>and</strong> dresses, along with fabulous décor sets. Oh, <strong>and</strong> if you want to see more photos from any of our<br />

shoots, be sure to tune <strong>in</strong> to our website for each photo shoot’s blog series—we’ll overwhelm you with more gorgeousness!<br />

We wouldn’t be <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> <strong>Magaz<strong>in</strong>e</strong> without, well, real wedd<strong>in</strong>gs. For this issue, we picked 30 fabulous real wedd<strong>in</strong>gs—start<strong>in</strong>g<br />

on page 139. And, head to our website for more deliciousness from these wedd<strong>in</strong>gs!<br />

Next up: columnist Kelley Saia compiled expert tips from our local wedd<strong>in</strong>g pros (check out her blog posts for even<br />

more helpful nuggets!). Head<strong>in</strong>g out to some bridal shows? Go to pages 34 <strong>and</strong> 36 for a comprehensive list of the shows<br />

you should attend (but before you go, take the tips on page 36 to heart!). <strong>The</strong>n, as always, our “For Your Review” columnist<br />

Sharon Penny presents you with a plethora of plann<strong>in</strong>g tools start<strong>in</strong>g on page 38 (with even more on our website); our<br />

“Gift Guide” will help you check everyone off of your gift list (<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g a few gifts for you!); go to page 204 to start putt<strong>in</strong>g<br />

together your wedd<strong>in</strong>g dream team of vendors...<strong>and</strong> so much more packed <strong>in</strong>to the pages of this issue.<br />

And a bazillion-times-<strong>in</strong>f<strong>in</strong>ity thanks to <strong>all</strong> of this issue’s contribut<strong>in</strong>g partners—you’re so giv<strong>in</strong>g with your knowledge<br />

<strong>and</strong> your talents, <strong>and</strong> we cannot thank you enough for shar<strong>in</strong>g it with us <strong>and</strong> our readers.<br />

We absolutely love putt<strong>in</strong>g together this magaz<strong>in</strong>e for you, our <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>’ readers.<br />

When you f<strong>in</strong>d your wedd<strong>in</strong>g dream team through <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>—<br />

the magaz<strong>in</strong>e, blog, website, mobile app, mobile directory <strong>and</strong> our social media<br />

sites— be sure to tell your wedd<strong>in</strong>g pros that you found them through <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong><br />

<strong>and</strong> that you’re a <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>’ reader because without their support, we simply<br />

couldn’t do what we do to <strong>in</strong>spire you!<br />

(Oh, <strong>and</strong> P.S. Tell them that you’re a <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>’ reader because a lot of our partners have special offers<br />

exclusively for our readers. You can get a sneak peek<br />

of them on our website at: realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com/<br />

/<strong>Real</strong><strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong><br />

specialoffers.)<br />

As always, dear readers, happy plann<strong>in</strong>g! OO<br />

CONNECT<br />

WITH<br />

US!<br />

@<strong>Real</strong><strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>Sac<br />

/<strong>Real</strong><strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>Mag<br />

/<strong>Real</strong><strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>MagTV<br />

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10 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


.<br />

JENN BARTELL PHOTOGRAPHY / JENNBARTELL.COM<br />

EUGENE DAVIDYUK PHOTOGRAPHY / EUGENEDAVIDYUK.COM<br />

AMANDA FLINN PHOTOGRAPHY / AMANDAFLINNPHOTOGRAPHY.COM<br />

ALL-INCLUSIVE WEDDING VENUE<br />

18841 Foresthill Road • Foresthill, <strong>California</strong> • 530.888.8123 • monteverde<strong>in</strong>n.net


wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

sacramento to the sierra<br />

real<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM<br />

Wendy Sipple<br />

Editor/Publisher<br />

Emily Peter<br />

Associate Editor<br />

Isabella De Garza,<br />

Gabriel Ionica,<br />

Ales<strong>and</strong>ra Velez<br />

Editorial Interns<br />

Susie Baggett, Shirley Burrows,<br />

Isabella De Garza, Eudelys Estaba,<br />

Tara Harbert, Tatiana Jitari,<br />

Nathalia K<strong>all</strong>an, Kate McGowan,<br />

Emily Peter, Am<strong>and</strong>a R<strong>in</strong>ehart,<br />

Wendy Sipple, Leah Sisto,<br />

Ales<strong>and</strong>ra Velez<br />

Fashion Team<br />

Eudelys Estaba,<br />

Tara Harbert, Tatiana Jitari,<br />

Nathalia K<strong>all</strong>an, Kayla Knight,<br />

Am<strong>and</strong>a R<strong>in</strong>ehart, Aavra Roseli,<br />

Ales<strong>and</strong>ra Velez<br />

Events Team<br />

Cathy Carmichael<br />

Editorial Assistant<br />

Dante Fontana<br />

Staff Photographer<br />

Contribut<strong>in</strong>g Writers<br />

Kristen Castillo, Isabella De Garza,<br />

Suzie Dundas, Darren Elms,<br />

Kourtney Jason, Sharon Penny,<br />

Emily Peter, Kelley Saia<br />

Kelley Saia<br />

Blog Writer<br />

Aimee Carroll<br />

Social Media Maven<br />

Krist<strong>in</strong>a Cilia Photography,<br />

Kylie Compton Photography,<br />

Lixxim Photography,<br />

Lolita Vasquez Photography,<br />

Matthews Inc. Photography,<br />

Meagan Lucy Photographers,<br />

Monica S Photography,<br />

Passion Studio,<br />

Rochelle Wilhelms Photography,<br />

Sarah M<strong>are</strong>n Photography,<br />

Shoop’s Photography,<br />

Sweet Marie Photography,<br />

Temple Photography & Photo Booth,<br />

V<strong>all</strong>ey Images Photography,<br />

Vicens Forns F<strong>in</strong>e Art Photography,<br />

White Daisy Photography<br />

Debra L<strong>in</strong>n<br />

Associate Publisher | 916-988-9888 x114<br />

Bettie Grijalva<br />

Lead Account Manager<br />

916-223-3364<br />

bettie@stylemg.com<br />

ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES<br />

Jami Areia | 916-988-9888 x112<br />

<strong>The</strong>resa Arnold | 916-988-9888 x119<br />

Reg Holliday | 916-988-9888 x121<br />

Joanne Kilmart<strong>in</strong> | 916-607-9360<br />

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<strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> <strong>Magaz<strong>in</strong>e</strong><br />

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Contribut<strong>in</strong>g Photographers<br />

2 Girls 20 Cameras,<br />

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12 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


contributors<br />

Feel like<br />

a pr<strong>in</strong>cess...<br />

<strong>and</strong> look like one too!<br />

crowns &<br />

tiaras<br />

hairpieces &<br />

combs<br />

jewelry<br />

accessories<br />

H<strong>and</strong> Crafted, Luxury<br />

bridal jewelry, <strong>and</strong> hair accessories.<br />

Made with only the fi nest quality materials<br />

Luxurious Bridal Accessories<br />

209-400-1915<br />

www.luxuriousbridal.com<br />

uxurious-Bridal-<strong>Sacramento</strong>-Accessories-SF18.<strong>in</strong>dd 1<br />

4/11/18 10:25 AM<br />

GABBY TERRASI AND ASHLEY KING<br />

2 GIRLS 20 CAMERAS<br />

2 Girls 20 Cameras was born <strong>in</strong><br />

2012, <strong>and</strong> co-owners Ashley <strong>and</strong><br />

Gabby (as new p<strong>are</strong>nts do) fell <strong>in</strong><br />

love quickly. 2 Girls 20 Cameras<br />

is a blend of artistic eyes, firm<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess ethics, <strong>and</strong>, maybe most<br />

importantly, teamwork. Together,<br />

they’ve crossed streams with<br />

cameras overhead, cut trim from<br />

mangled wedd<strong>in</strong>g dresses <strong>and</strong><br />

h<strong>and</strong>led the most drunken of<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g guests. Lastly: nope, they<br />

don’t br<strong>in</strong>g <strong>all</strong> 20 cameras, but do<br />

br<strong>in</strong>g the proper equipment to<br />

capture your memories.<br />

2girls20cameras.com<br />

DANTE FONTANA / STYLE MEDIA GROUP<br />

ARIANA AMES, CCF<br />

AMES HAUS DESIGN<br />

Ariana is the founder of Ames<br />

Haus Design, an event plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>and</strong> floral design company located<br />

<strong>in</strong> Roseville. For nearly a decade,<br />

she has produced one-of-a-k<strong>in</strong>d<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g experiences for her clients.<br />

Comb<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g her expertise <strong>in</strong> the<br />

<strong>are</strong>as of event plann<strong>in</strong>g, coord<strong>in</strong>at<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

<strong>and</strong> event décor, with her passion<br />

for bespoke florals, Ariana has<br />

produced five-star quality wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

<strong>throughout</strong> <strong>Northern</strong> <strong>California</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />

the Central Coast. It is her pursuit<br />

for perfection <strong>and</strong> the satisfaction of<br />

br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g her clients’ vision to fruition<br />

that has made Ames Haus Design<br />

one of the top wedd<strong>in</strong>g design<br />

studios <strong>in</strong> the <strong>Sacramento</strong> <strong>are</strong>a.<br />

ameshaus.com<br />

BORELFOTO.COM<br />

LONNA YEN<br />

INK FURIE<br />

Lonna is the owner of Ink Furie, a<br />

c<strong>all</strong>igraphy studio that specializes<br />

<strong>in</strong> turn<strong>in</strong>g words <strong>in</strong>to art for life’s<br />

special moments. Experienced <strong>in</strong><br />

both modern <strong>and</strong> flourished copperplate<br />

c<strong>all</strong>igraphy, she has worked<br />

with brides <strong>and</strong> entrepreneurs to<br />

<strong>in</strong>corporate c<strong>all</strong>igraphy <strong>in</strong>to their<br />

stationery, events <strong>and</strong> br<strong>and</strong><strong>in</strong>g.<br />

When not work<strong>in</strong>g, Lonna enjoys<br />

spend<strong>in</strong>g time with her lov<strong>in</strong>g<br />

husb<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> sons <strong>and</strong> subsist<strong>in</strong>g<br />

largely on caffe<strong>in</strong>e <strong>and</strong> cake.<br />

<strong>in</strong>kfurie.com<br />

@CHANDARACREATIVE<br />

CINDY MAGAN<br />

HILLSIDE BLOOMS FLORISTRY<br />

C<strong>in</strong>dy is the owner <strong>and</strong> lead designer<br />

of Hillside Blooms Floristry. For<br />

C<strong>in</strong>dy, each wedd<strong>in</strong>g is an opportunity<br />

to create floral works of art that<br />

tell each couple’s story. She loves<br />

to use fresh flowers picked from<br />

her own hillside garden whenever<br />

possible. While the studio is located<br />

<strong>in</strong> Colfax, it serves the greater<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong> <strong>are</strong>a, Lake <strong>Tahoe</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />

beyond. When she’s not play<strong>in</strong>g<br />

with flowers, she enjoys travel<strong>in</strong>g<br />

with her husb<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> three girls.<br />

hillsidebloomsfloristry.com<br />

ASHLEYBAUMGARTNER.COM<br />

JENNIFER CORRIGAN<br />

SACRAMENTO EVENT CO.<br />

As the owner <strong>and</strong> lead designer<br />

at <strong>Sacramento</strong> Event Co., Jennifer<br />

believes that the details matter <strong>and</strong><br />

the little th<strong>in</strong>gs separate good from<br />

great. She has been <strong>in</strong> the event<br />

<strong>in</strong>dustry for 15 years, start<strong>in</strong>g her c<strong>are</strong>er<br />

<strong>in</strong> Canada <strong>and</strong> recently mov<strong>in</strong>g<br />

to <strong>Sacramento</strong>. Jennifer takes an<br />

<strong>in</strong>ternational approach to her clean<br />

polished design with luxury modern<br />

event furniture rentals.<br />

sacramentoeventco.com<br />

SYMCHYSHYN.COM<br />

ROBYN LAZZERINI<br />

SILT WINE COMPANY<br />

Robyn, a fourth generation native<br />

from Clarksburg, started work<strong>in</strong>g<br />

with Wilson V<strong>in</strong>eyards five years<br />

ago <strong>and</strong> recently took over what<br />

is now known as Silt W<strong>in</strong>e Co.<br />

Her graceful <strong>and</strong> welcom<strong>in</strong>g<br />

personality puts couples at ease for<br />

an unforgettable day. <strong>The</strong>ir private<br />

tast<strong>in</strong>g room has many updates<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g a large marble tast<strong>in</strong>g<br />

bar <strong>and</strong> beautiful ambient light<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

while keep<strong>in</strong>g with the old-world<br />

charm of the 1920s barn.<br />

siltw<strong>in</strong>eco.com<br />

LYDA MOCK/GO GOLD MEDIA, GOGOLDMEDIA.COM<br />

14 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


CANNON FIRE PHOTOGRAPHY / CANNONFIRE.CO<br />

CHRISTOPHER ARMSTRONG PHOTOGRAPHY /<br />

CHRISTOPHERARMSTRONGPHOTOGRAPHY.COM<br />

OUR SPACE<br />

your imag<strong>in</strong>ation<br />

CANNON FIRE PHOTOGRAPHY / CANNONFIRE.CO<br />

1008 2nd street | sacramento, california<br />

916-794-1699 | facebook.com/oldsacevents<br />

Oldsacvenue.com<br />

CALL JQ EVENTS AT 916-794-1699<br />

FOR MORE DETAILS ON BOTH EVENT SPACES<br />

AND COMING SOON...<br />

NEW VENUE<br />

THE UNION HOTEL<br />

Th e Union Hotel<br />

1028 2nd street<br />

old sacramento


contributors<br />

BENJAMINCOLAB.COM<br />

LIZZIMBELMAN.COM<br />

CHRISTI NASSER<br />

EPIC THYME EVENTS<br />

Christi is an entrepreneur, bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />

owner <strong>and</strong> an acclaimed event<br />

planner with a background <strong>in</strong> market<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>and</strong> <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess.<br />

She has received several awards<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g the <strong>2019</strong> Couples’ Choice<br />

Award from <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>Wire for her<br />

company Epic Thyme Events. Christi<br />

is constantly <strong>in</strong> motion <strong>and</strong> loves<br />

to take action. She has experience<br />

<strong>in</strong> design, event management, bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />

startups, bookkeep<strong>in</strong>g, build<strong>in</strong>g<br />

relationships, motivat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong><br />

<strong>in</strong>spir<strong>in</strong>g others to do what they<br />

love, market themselves <strong>and</strong> leave<br />

an impact on those they meet.<br />

epicthyme.com<br />

RAMONA ARNOLD<br />

SIMPLE COUNTRY WEDDINGS<br />

Ramona, owner of Simple Country<br />

<strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>, has been plann<strong>in</strong>g wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

<strong>and</strong> events for more than a<br />

decade. She also owns a boutique<br />

rental shop that makes the plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

process for her clients a breeze.<br />

Ramona has a passion for detail<br />

<strong>and</strong> design, <strong>and</strong> works endless<br />

hours to ensure that every wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

is perfect. She is right t<strong>here</strong> by her<br />

clients’ side for every step of the<br />

plann<strong>in</strong>g process, always accessible,<br />

responsive <strong>and</strong> <strong>in</strong>credibly easy to<br />

work with.<br />

simplecountrywedd<strong>in</strong>gs.com<br />

BETHANY PETRIK<br />

BETHANY PETRIK PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Bethany is a wedd<strong>in</strong>g lifestyle<br />

photographer servic<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Northern</strong><br />

<strong>California</strong>. She started tak<strong>in</strong>g<br />

pictures as a way of journal<strong>in</strong>g daily<br />

life <strong>and</strong> became obsessed. She<br />

believes that everyone has a story<br />

made up of who they <strong>are</strong> <strong>and</strong> their<br />

relationships with people. Bethany<br />

learned that photograph<strong>in</strong>g people<br />

had to be about tell<strong>in</strong>g these<br />

stories. She is a lover of books,<br />

fabrics <strong>and</strong> a f<strong>in</strong>e IPA. Bethany<br />

spends her time chas<strong>in</strong>g her<br />

two adorable little monsters <strong>and</strong><br />

sitt<strong>in</strong>g on the front porch with her<br />

husb<strong>and</strong>. bethanypetrik.com<br />

LOLITAVASQUEZPHOTOGRAPHY.COM<br />

KRISTINACILIAPHOTOGRAPHY.COM<br />

8201 Freeport Blvd. | <strong>Sacramento</strong><br />

916-665-9500<br />

freeportw<strong>in</strong>ecountry<strong>in</strong>n.com<br />

JESSE, STEPHANIE AND STEVE FARRELL<br />

FARRELL PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Farrell Photography is made up<br />

of three talented photographers<br />

who also happen to be related.<br />

Jesse, Stephanie <strong>and</strong> Steve love<br />

tak<strong>in</strong>g photos <strong>and</strong> creat<strong>in</strong>g artful<br />

memories, <strong>and</strong> <strong>are</strong> known for<br />

their out-of-the-box creativity <strong>and</strong><br />

jaw-dropp<strong>in</strong>g photos. <strong>The</strong>y re<strong>all</strong>y<br />

get to know their clients <strong>and</strong> strive<br />

to br<strong>in</strong>g their personality <strong>in</strong>to their<br />

photos. Even when they’re not<br />

work<strong>in</strong>g, you’ll likely f<strong>in</strong>d <strong>all</strong> three of<br />

the Farrells with a camera <strong>in</strong> h<strong>and</strong>—<br />

DANIELLE PHILLIPS<br />

OMNI WEDDING & EVENT PLANNING<br />

Danielle is an accountant turned<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g planner who, as the owner<br />

<strong>and</strong> lead designer of Omni <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong><br />

& Event Plann<strong>in</strong>g, m<strong>in</strong>dfully<br />

curates every event to be a reflection<br />

of each couple. She wants one<br />

th<strong>in</strong>g for <strong>all</strong> her couples: for them to<br />

be able to plan a wedd<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> still<br />

have a social life! When Danielle’s<br />

not work<strong>in</strong>g, you can f<strong>in</strong>d her<br />

hang<strong>in</strong>g out with her husb<strong>and</strong> of 12<br />

years <strong>and</strong> her two redheaded boys.<br />

omniwedd<strong>in</strong>g<strong>and</strong>events.com<br />

NIDHANA PERERA<br />

PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

Hail<strong>in</strong>g from a beautiful isl<strong>and</strong><br />

that’s often described as paradise<br />

(hence the name for her bus<strong>in</strong>ess),<br />

Nidhana, known as NK, has been<br />

immersed <strong>in</strong> luxury design, travel,<br />

organization <strong>and</strong> adventure her<br />

whole life. Through a holistic<br />

approach, Paradise Parkway<br />

produces storybook events that<br />

<strong>are</strong> effortlessly executed, yet stylish<br />

<strong>and</strong> unique. An up <strong>and</strong> comer <strong>in</strong> the<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>dustry, NK prides herself<br />

<strong>in</strong> cater<strong>in</strong>g to a diverse clientele<br />

ready to capture another perfect<br />

while creat<strong>in</strong>g an extraord<strong>in</strong>ary<br />

moment. farrellphotography.net<br />

experience for any size party.<br />

paradiseparkway.com<br />

16 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


contributors<br />

DROZIANPHOTOWORKS.COM<br />

love<br />

genu<strong>in</strong>e<br />

805-368-9002<br />

WWW.OMNIWEDDINGANDEVENTS.COM<br />

VICENS FORNS<br />

VICENS FORNS FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Vicens is a professional, award-w<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g<br />

photographer from Barcelona,<br />

Spa<strong>in</strong>, <strong>and</strong> has been liv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the<br />

beautiful Napa V<strong>all</strong>ey s<strong>in</strong>ce 2010. He<br />

is a third-generation photographer,<br />

<strong>and</strong> his style lov<strong>in</strong>gly mixes f<strong>in</strong>e art<br />

photography with c<strong>and</strong>ids. With<br />

humor, Vicens strives to make clients<br />

feel comfortable so they enjoy<br />

the experience <strong>and</strong> forget that he is<br />

even t<strong>here</strong>, while he crawls, hangs,<br />

climbs <strong>and</strong> wiggles to f<strong>in</strong>d that<br />

special moment <strong>in</strong> time.<br />

vicensforns.com<br />

SUSAN AND LAWRENCE CRANE<br />

THE PARTY CONCIERGE<br />

Owners Susan <strong>and</strong> Lawrence of <strong>The</strong><br />

Party Concierge have more than 30<br />

years of experience creat<strong>in</strong>g unique<br />

event design <strong>and</strong> décor. Susan,<br />

Lawrence <strong>and</strong> their 17 experienced<br />

staff members provide creative<br />

solutions <strong>and</strong> last<strong>in</strong>g impressions<br />

for their clients’ wedd<strong>in</strong>gs, social,<br />

corporate <strong>and</strong> community events<br />

from their 40,000-squ<strong>are</strong>-foot<br />

w<strong>are</strong>house <strong>in</strong> the downtown<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong> River District <strong>are</strong>a.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y specialize <strong>in</strong> thematic props,<br />

ice sculptures, floral design,<br />

graphics, pr<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g, b<strong>all</strong>oon art <strong>and</strong><br />

foam carv<strong>in</strong>gs.<br />

partyconcierge.com<br />

NUDRATOWENS.COM<br />

AMYSHUMANPHOTO.COM<br />

DANTE FONTANA / STYLE MEDIA GROUP<br />

MICHELLE CELAYA<br />

LITTLE BIRD PAPER COMPANY<br />

Michelle is the owner <strong>and</strong> creative<br />

director at Little Bird Paper<br />

Company. As a former architectturned-stationer,<br />

she has a passion<br />

for good design, especi<strong>all</strong>y when it<br />

comes to event stationery. Michelle<br />

believes that <strong>in</strong>vitations can set the<br />

tone for an entire event, as they <strong>are</strong><br />

the first detail that guests see. Most<br />

of her pr<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g is done <strong>in</strong>-house on<br />

a v<strong>in</strong>tage pr<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g press. She loves<br />

good coffee, funny stories <strong>and</strong><br />

movie nights with her family.<br />

littlebirdpapercompany.com<br />

AMRIT DHILLON-BAINS<br />

ANAÏS EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN<br />

Amrit has been creat<strong>in</strong>g art <strong>in</strong> one<br />

form or another s<strong>in</strong>ce age five<br />

(doodl<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>stead of eat<strong>in</strong>g at the<br />

d<strong>in</strong>ner table, much to her family’s<br />

dismay). Pair<strong>in</strong>g her organizational<br />

skills with an artistic background,<br />

love for travel, creativity <strong>and</strong><br />

passion for design, she develops<br />

unique solutions perfectly tailored<br />

to her clients. Amrit’s fresh<br />

perspective <strong>and</strong> eye for design has<br />

made her the choice of discern<strong>in</strong>g<br />

clients for contemporary, ethnic <strong>and</strong><br />

cross-cultural events.<br />

anaisevents.com<br />

BRIE WILLIAMS<br />

WILD FLOWERS DESIGN GROUP<br />

Brie’s <strong>in</strong>troduction to the world of<br />

flowers began at a young age <strong>in</strong><br />

1986 when Wild Flowers Design<br />

Group was established by her<br />

mother <strong>and</strong> gr<strong>and</strong>mother. Brie<br />

grew up work<strong>in</strong>g at the studio <strong>and</strong><br />

developed an eye for design <strong>and</strong> a<br />

love of color. Her <strong>in</strong>terest <strong>in</strong> design<br />

<strong>and</strong> color took her first <strong>in</strong>to cake<br />

design, then to coord<strong>in</strong>at<strong>in</strong>g events<br />

<strong>and</strong> f<strong>in</strong><strong>all</strong>y, floral design. Today, Brie<br />

is a favorite among <strong>Sacramento</strong><br />

brides <strong>and</strong> wedd<strong>in</strong>g planners.<br />

wildflowersdesigngroup.com<br />

ANGELINA AND RICH ELLIS<br />

TAHOE ELEVATED EVENTS<br />

Magic-mak<strong>in</strong>g duo Angel<strong>in</strong>a <strong>and</strong><br />

Rich have coupled their skills<br />

of event plann<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> custom<br />

woodwork<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to their own<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess: <strong>Tahoe</strong> Elevated Events.<br />

This husb<strong>and</strong>-<strong>and</strong>-wife team<br />

comb<strong>in</strong>es the necessary skills <strong>and</strong><br />

knowledge to help make every<br />

event memorable <strong>and</strong> unique.<br />

<strong>Tahoe</strong> Elevated Events is the<br />

greater Lake <strong>Tahoe</strong> <strong>and</strong> Carson<br />

V<strong>all</strong>ey’s premier one-stop-shop for<br />

party rentals <strong>and</strong> plann<strong>in</strong>g services,<br />

help<strong>in</strong>g to br<strong>in</strong>g every vision to life.<br />

tahoeelevatedevents.com<br />

18 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


Alex<strong>and</strong>ra Vail Photography<br />

Your <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong><br />

Beautiful, Elegant...<br />

Hai Productions<br />

Alex<strong>and</strong>ra Vail Photography<br />

Mishca Photography<br />

Unforgettable.<br />

We’re the perfect canvas to reflect your dist<strong>in</strong>ctive wedd<strong>in</strong>g style.<br />

Schedule a site tour <strong>and</strong> meet<strong>in</strong>g today.<br />

916.791.7578 x110 | granitebayclub.com<br />

9600 Golf Club Drive, Granite Bay, CA 95746<br />

GraniteBayGolfClub<br />

GraniteBayGC<br />

A member of the ClubCorp family


contributors<br />

MINDY AAGAARD<br />

SWEET MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

M<strong>in</strong>dy of Sweet Marie Photography<br />

thrives on wedd<strong>in</strong>g day adrenal<strong>in</strong>e<br />

<strong>and</strong> can’t hold back a few dance<br />

moves at receptions, especi<strong>all</strong>y if<br />

the song list <strong>in</strong>cludes ’90s hip-hop.<br />

Her greatest loves <strong>are</strong> her family<br />

<strong>and</strong> her fluffy cross-eyed cat, <strong>in</strong><br />

no particular order. If she had to<br />

choose a f<strong>in</strong>al last meal, it would<br />

def<strong>in</strong>itely <strong>in</strong>clude bacon, <strong>and</strong> even<br />

after <strong>all</strong> of these years of try<strong>in</strong>g, she<br />

has yet to f<strong>in</strong>d the perfect pillow.<br />

M<strong>in</strong>dy’s gypsy soul loves travel<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

<strong>and</strong> her bucket list <strong>in</strong>cludes dipp<strong>in</strong>g<br />

her toes <strong>in</strong>to every ocean on the<br />

planet.<br />

sweetmariephotography.com<br />

LIEZET ARNOLD<br />

BLOEM DECOR<br />

Liezet, owner of Bloem Decor,<br />

br<strong>in</strong>gs someth<strong>in</strong>g different to<br />

the table with her European<br />

aesthetic. She started work<strong>in</strong>g<br />

with flowers at the age of 16 <strong>in</strong> her<br />

native Holl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> shows no sign of<br />

stopp<strong>in</strong>g. After gett<strong>in</strong>g her master’s<br />

<strong>in</strong> floral design, Liezet moved to<br />

Hollywood w<strong>here</strong> she quickly<br />

learned that her unique designs set<br />

her apart. From t<strong>here</strong>, she planted<br />

roots <strong>in</strong> <strong>Sacramento</strong> w<strong>here</strong> she now<br />

works <strong>and</strong> lives. <strong>The</strong> sentiment that<br />

“flowers <strong>are</strong> more than beautiful<br />

but <strong>are</strong> also emotions” has helped<br />

make her a staple <strong>in</strong> downtown<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong>. bloemdecor.com<br />

KATE WHITE<br />

KATHRYN WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Kate is drawn to natural light,<br />

authentic people, good music,<br />

abundant laughter <strong>and</strong> scenic<br />

adventures. She believes <strong>in</strong> lean<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>in</strong>to new experiences <strong>and</strong> see<strong>in</strong>g<br />

the best <strong>in</strong> every situation. Kate’s<br />

a committed wife <strong>and</strong> proud mom<br />

with a creative spirit <strong>and</strong> deep<br />

yearn<strong>in</strong>g for real, through-thick<strong>and</strong>-th<strong>in</strong><br />

k<strong>in</strong>d of love. With more<br />

than eight years of professional<br />

experience <strong>and</strong> years of study,<br />

her passion for photography<br />

cont<strong>in</strong>uously grows. Kate’s<br />

obsessed with evok<strong>in</strong>g feel<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

through her images, because she<br />

believes it’s imperative <strong>in</strong> tell<strong>in</strong>g her<br />

clients’ stories.<br />

kathrynwhitephotography.com<br />

XSIGHTUSA.COM<br />

THEFRECKLEDPHOTOGRAPHER.COM<br />

DANTE FONTANA / STYLE MEDIA GROUP<br />

MEGANCLOUSE.COM<br />

<strong>The</strong> Perfect Canvas For Pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Your Perfect Picture<br />

Celebrate your wedd<strong>in</strong>g with an exclusive<br />

<strong>and</strong> enchant<strong>in</strong>g weekend retreat.<br />

Come discover why Field & Pond is<br />

the country estate above <strong>all</strong> others.<br />

RICK AND JENNIFER TAN<br />

TAN WEDDINGS & EVENTS<br />

Husb<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> wife co-owners Rick<br />

<strong>and</strong> Jennifer passionately fulfill<br />

dreams of exquisite wedd<strong>in</strong>gs,<br />

bespoke elopements, <strong>and</strong> most<br />

extraord<strong>in</strong>ary events. Tan <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong><br />

& Events offers plann<strong>in</strong>g, design,<br />

officiat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> live music <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Northern</strong> <strong>California</strong> <strong>and</strong> beyond.<br />

tanwedd<strong>in</strong>gs<strong>and</strong>events.com<br />

MEGHAN AND DANIEL JIMENEZ<br />

ABOVE & BEYOND CAKES<br />

Daniel was born <strong>and</strong> raised <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong>, <strong>and</strong> as a teen worked<br />

for a local Mexican bakery. <strong>The</strong><br />

experience eventu<strong>all</strong>y earned him a<br />

job with a box store retailer <strong>in</strong> their<br />

scratch bakery department. All the<br />

while, Daniel ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong>ed a passion<br />

for <strong>all</strong> forms of f<strong>in</strong>e art. Eventu<strong>all</strong>y<br />

he became a construction project<br />

manager, but as fate would have<br />

it, now owns Above & Beyond<br />

Cakes with his wife <strong>and</strong> head<br />

cake decorator Meghan, w<strong>here</strong> he<br />

puts <strong>all</strong> of his experience to use.<br />

CHEF JANET MORANDA<br />

CATERING BY DESIGN<br />

Over the past 10 years, Chef<br />

Janet has worked on more than<br />

300 wedd<strong>in</strong>gs, family reunions,<br />

company <strong>and</strong> private events. Janet<br />

believes “every event is unique” <strong>and</strong><br />

promises to treat it as such. With<br />

more than 20 years <strong>in</strong> the cul<strong>in</strong>ary<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess, she br<strong>in</strong>gs her experience<br />

<strong>in</strong> cater<strong>in</strong>g, design <strong>and</strong> plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

to her clients’ events. She wants<br />

to br<strong>in</strong>g the best menu <strong>and</strong> the<br />

best-tast<strong>in</strong>g food that her clients’<br />

budgets <strong>all</strong>ow.<br />

cater<strong>in</strong>gbydesignrockl<strong>in</strong>.com<br />

above<strong>and</strong>beyondcakes.com<br />

www.Pric<strong>in</strong>gField<strong>and</strong>Pond.com<br />

Info@Field<strong>and</strong>Pond.com<br />

20 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


w<strong>in</strong> cool stuff<br />

YEAH, YOU REALLY CAN WIN THESE GOODIES<br />

Boudoir Session<br />

from Kathryn<br />

White Photography<br />

(kathrynwhite<br />

photography.com),<br />

valued at $450.<br />

Enter at<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.<br />

com/contests<br />

Custom “<strong>The</strong> Snuggle<br />

is <strong>Real</strong>” Pillow <strong>and</strong><br />

Signage from Swoonable<br />

(swoonable.net), as seen <strong>in</strong><br />

our “Endless Love” shoot,<br />

valued at $105.<br />

Signage st<strong>and</strong>s not <strong>in</strong>cluded.<br />

Enter at<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com/<br />

contests<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Dance Lesson Package<br />

(3 Private Lesson <strong>and</strong> Unlimited Group Classes<br />

<strong>and</strong> Practice parties) from<br />

Arthur Murray Dance Centers<br />

(arthurmurraysacramento.com), valued at $350.<br />

Enter at realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com/contests<br />

Custom “Love Is”<br />

Stepp<strong>in</strong>g Stones <strong>and</strong><br />

Table Number from<br />

Ink Furie<br />

(<strong>in</strong>kfurie.com), as seen<br />

<strong>in</strong> our “Endless Love”<br />

shoot, valued at $200.<br />

Enter at<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.<br />

com/contests<br />

Engagement Session from<br />

Danielle Alysse Photography<br />

(daniellealyssephotography.com),<br />

valued at $300.<br />

Enter at realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com/contests<br />

Asante Spa Gift Certificate<br />

(asantespaedh.com),<br />

valued at $100.<br />

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com/contests<br />

Want to w<strong>in</strong> these monthly giveaways? Go to realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com/contests<br />

for more details...<strong>and</strong> we’ll do a few pop-up giveaways <strong>in</strong> between!<br />

Follow us on Instagram to see more @realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag<br />

Note that some restrictions on these giveaways may apply. Please see <strong>all</strong> details on our website.<br />

22 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


<strong>The</strong> air's a little th<strong>in</strong>ner,<br />

the mounta<strong>in</strong>'s a little t<strong>all</strong>er<br />

<strong>and</strong> the sky's a whole lot bluer.<br />

All of which expla<strong>in</strong>s why<br />

vows r<strong>in</strong>g a little louder.<br />

Carson V<strong>all</strong>ey is a blissful union of Mother Nature <strong>and</strong><br />

human nature -- a sett<strong>in</strong>g w<strong>here</strong> the scenery is rivaled only<br />

by the generosity <strong>and</strong> warmth of people as excited about<br />

your wedd<strong>in</strong>g as you <strong>are</strong>.<br />

100 Proof Bar Service<br />

Bar service, mixology classes, professional bartenders<br />

775-386-2149 • 100proofbarservice.com<br />

A Wildflower Florist<br />

Award-w<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g florist, custom creations,<br />

featured <strong>in</strong> <strong>The</strong> Knot<br />

775-782-7579 • AWildflower.net<br />

Carson V<strong>all</strong>ey Florist<br />

Full-Service Florist, <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>, Classes,<br />

DIY Assistance Available<br />

775-266-9285 • carsonv<strong>all</strong>eyflorist.com<br />

Check out these preferred wedd<strong>in</strong>g partners.<br />

Carson V<strong>all</strong>ey Inn Hotel/Cas<strong>in</strong>o<br />

Receptions, Rehearsal D<strong>in</strong>ners, Bachelor &<br />

Bachelorette Parties, Hotel-Motor Lodge-RV<br />

775-782-9711 • carsonv<strong>all</strong>ey<strong>in</strong>n.com<br />

Genoa Town H<strong>all</strong>,<br />

Genoa Church, Genoa Park<br />

Indoor/Outdoor Venues,<br />

Historic Build<strong>in</strong>gs, Receptions<br />

775-782-8696 • genoanevada.org<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> View D<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g Room<br />

Seat<strong>in</strong>g & Danc<strong>in</strong>g for 350, Fantastic Ranch<br />

& Mounta<strong>in</strong> Views, Outdoor Patio<br />

775-782-5500 Ext. 5243 • schristian@douglasnv.us<br />

Sierra Chef, Cynthia Ferris-Bennett<br />

Coord<strong>in</strong>ation, Gourmet Appetizers, Special Events<br />

775-392-4417 • sierrachef.com<br />

<strong>Tahoe</strong> Elevated Events<br />

Rentals & Plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

775-783-9300 • <strong>Tahoe</strong>ElevatedEvents.com<br />

VisitCarsonV<strong>all</strong>ey.org


on realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

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Did you know that we<br />

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MORE EXPERT<br />

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(like this nugget)<br />

<strong>The</strong> one tip that I tell every bride <strong>and</strong><br />

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wedd<strong>in</strong>g. It is not someth<strong>in</strong>g that most<br />

people have experience do<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>and</strong> I<br />

have seen it take as long as 30 m<strong>in</strong>utes<br />

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—Jim Braden<br />

Catta Verdera County Club<br />

cattaverdera.com<br />

DEEANDKRISPHOTOGRAPHY.COM<br />

NICOLE AND XERES<br />

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT<br />

Tune <strong>in</strong> to our blog daily for more ideas to help<br />

you <strong>in</strong> your plann<strong>in</strong>g (<strong>and</strong> some posts that <strong>are</strong> just<br />

for fun!)...up-to-date event <strong>in</strong>formation, tips <strong>and</strong><br />

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24 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


Attend Our Complimentary<br />

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1220 ARDEN HILLS LANE | SACRAMENTO | 916.480.1170 | WWW.ARDENHILLS.CLUB/WEDDINGSEXPERIENCE


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REAL WEDDINGS MAGAZINE<br />

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beh<strong>in</strong>d-the-scenes<br />

THE FUN SHOTS!<br />

Ever want to<br />

know what<br />

goes on beh<strong>in</strong>d<br />

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helped us<br />

produce<br />

these<br />

features!<br />

L<strong>in</strong>den <strong>and</strong> Kate made the BEST helpers on our shoot!<br />

It's not a <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> photo shoot<br />

without a Wendy photo bomb.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re she is: Miss Midori!<br />

How many clamps...wait, it's a Lisa photo bomb!!!<br />

We love this!<br />

Matt, please don't go out<br />

any further on that rock!<br />

That's. A. Wrap.<br />

<strong>The</strong> food tasted as good as it looked!<br />

Yeah, it re<strong>all</strong>y does take a village.<br />

That's what we c<strong>all</strong> multi-task<strong>in</strong>g!<br />

Ha. Ha. Ha.<br />

Hold on tight Kadra!<br />

Go team go!<br />

Aren't they cute?!<br />

I got you...<br />

Well that's a first. Get the bail money ready...<br />

Wendy's go<strong>in</strong>g to jail.<br />

Has anyone seen Brie?<br />

How was that<br />

pose aga<strong>in</strong> Jesse?<br />

You got me!<br />

> ONLINE BONUS!<br />

Log on to realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com to<br />

see more beh<strong>in</strong>d-the-scenes photos<br />

<strong>and</strong> videos from our <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong><br />

<strong>Magaz<strong>in</strong>e</strong>’s photo shoots!<br />

26 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


PAIGEBRITTANYPHOTOGRAPHY.COM<br />

Nestled <strong>in</strong> the beautiful countryside of Elk Grove<br />

just 15 m<strong>in</strong>utes from downtown <strong>Sacramento</strong><br />

Sheldon Inn is the perfect dest<strong>in</strong>ation for<br />

your dream wedd<strong>in</strong>g ceremony <strong>and</strong> reception!<br />

9000 Grant L<strong>in</strong>e Road, Elk Grove | 916-686-8330<br />

sheldon<strong>in</strong>n.com | wedd<strong>in</strong>gs@sheldon<strong>in</strong>n.com


expert advice<br />

TIPS FROM THE PROS<br />

COMPILED BY KELLEY SAIA<br />

When it comes to plann<strong>in</strong>g your wedd<strong>in</strong>g, you’re bound to get an overwhelm<strong>in</strong>g amount of<br />

advice from family, friends, pop-up ads <strong>and</strong> more. But no one knows wedd<strong>in</strong>gs more than<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g professionals. We’ve collected some golden nuggets of wisdom from our very own<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g experts to help you make wise decisions. Plus, they offer some <strong>in</strong>sight <strong>in</strong>to current<br />

trends to keep you up-to-date with the latest <strong>in</strong> wedd<strong>in</strong>g design.<br />

COORDINATE DESIGN<br />

A quick, helpful tip when work<strong>in</strong>g with your florist is to<br />

sh<strong>are</strong> with them samples of your DIY projects, especi<strong>all</strong>y if you’re<br />

mak<strong>in</strong>g your own centerpieces. As a designer, we like to make sure<br />

everyth<strong>in</strong>g coord<strong>in</strong>ates appropriately.<br />

—Mary Lee | Amour Florist & Bridal | amourmoments.com<br />

ABOVE: CENETERPIECE BY<br />

AMOUR FLORIST & BRIDAL /<br />

AMOURMOMENTS.COM<br />

ABOVE: ACRYLIC MENU BY SWOONABLE / SWOONABLE.NET<br />

PHOTO BY XSIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO / XSIGHTUSA.COM<br />

FOR MORE PHOTOS AND VENDORS FROM THIS SHOOT,<br />

GO TO OUR STYLE FILES: DESIGN & DÉCOR SECTION, PAGE 228<br />

HAVE FUN WITH ACRYLICS<br />

From welcome signs to seat<strong>in</strong>g charts, to table numbers <strong>and</strong><br />

menus, I’m lov<strong>in</strong>g this trend: acrylic signage. <strong>The</strong> sm<strong>all</strong>, often<br />

overlooked details can be made <strong>in</strong>to beautiful statement pieces<br />

with some crisp c<strong>all</strong>igraphy.<br />

—Alexis W<strong>in</strong>blad | Monte Verde Inn | monteverde<strong>in</strong>n.com<br />

SEATING CHART IDEA<br />

When creat<strong>in</strong>g the seat<strong>in</strong>g chart, consider putt<strong>in</strong>g gr<strong>and</strong>p<strong>are</strong>nts<br />

at the tables closest to the dance floor. This way,<br />

dur<strong>in</strong>g the first dance <strong>and</strong> when everyone else starts danc<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

they have front row seat<strong>in</strong>g! <strong>The</strong>y can be part of the<br />

action without hav<strong>in</strong>g to move around <strong>all</strong> night!<br />

—Christi Nasser | Epic Thyme Events | epicthyme.com<br />

RIGHT: BOUQUET BY<br />

STRELITZIA FLOWER COMPANY /<br />

WEDDINGSBYSTRELITZIA.COM<br />

BE FLEXIBLE<br />

Come <strong>in</strong> with an<br />

open m<strong>in</strong>d. Maybe<br />

peonies won’t fit <strong>in</strong><br />

your budget, but<br />

t<strong>here</strong> <strong>are</strong> other flowers that can give a similar feel<br />

that will give you extra space for that arch piece<br />

you were hop<strong>in</strong>g for. We florists have a lot of<br />

tricks up our sleeves to help you get the wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

look you’ve been dream<strong>in</strong>g of!<br />

—Samantha Wooten Widlund<br />

Strelitzia Flower Company<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>gsbystrelitzia.com<br />

BE PREPARED<br />

We have had several issues lately with bridal dresses, like<br />

the bustle break<strong>in</strong>g or not stay<strong>in</strong>g attached or a zipper<br />

break<strong>in</strong>g. Of course, this can be devastat<strong>in</strong>g! Ladies, if you<br />

haven’t tried on your wedd<strong>in</strong>g dress at least two weeks<br />

prior to your wedd<strong>in</strong>g, make sure you do. If it feels snug,<br />

get it altered. And, we th<strong>in</strong>k it would be extremely smart<br />

to br<strong>in</strong>g a dress to change <strong>in</strong>to, just <strong>in</strong> case someth<strong>in</strong>g like<br />

this happens. We carry a lot of th<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong> our repair kit <strong>and</strong><br />

create a lot of magic, but this is not someth<strong>in</strong>g that <strong>all</strong><br />

brides-to-be th<strong>in</strong>k to have h<strong>and</strong>y.<br />

—Ramona Arnold | Simple Country <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong><br />

simplecountrywedd<strong>in</strong>gs.com<br />

BE HONEST ABOUT YOUR BUDGET<br />

It’s important to be up front <strong>and</strong> honest about your<br />

over<strong>all</strong> budget when you <strong>are</strong> visit<strong>in</strong>g wedd<strong>in</strong>g venues.<br />

Food, beverage, facility for ceremony <strong>and</strong> reception,<br />

along with sales tax <strong>and</strong> service charge, <strong>are</strong><br />

often 48-50% of the over<strong>all</strong> wedd<strong>in</strong>g budget. <strong>The</strong>re<br />

<strong>are</strong> opportunities for discounts or lower rates by<br />

hav<strong>in</strong>g your wedd<strong>in</strong>g dur<strong>in</strong>g shoulder seasons, offpeak<br />

times or different days of the week. Just ask<br />

the venue if they have opportunities for additional<br />

sav<strong>in</strong>gs. Short-term wedd<strong>in</strong>g book<strong>in</strong>gs usu<strong>all</strong>y get<br />

the best rates, although it is a total crap shoot on<br />

what dates <strong>are</strong> available when you plan only three to<br />

six months out.<br />

—Kelle Collier | Granite Bay Golf Club | granitebayclub.com<br />

ABOVE: CAKE BY ABOVE & BEYOND CAKES /<br />

ABOVEANDBEYONDCAKES.COM<br />

EDUCATE YOUR GUESTS<br />

If you, or any of your speakers, <strong>are</strong><br />

plann<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>in</strong>corporate someth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

special <strong>in</strong>to your ceremony<br />

(e.g. the Jewish tradition of break<strong>in</strong>g<br />

of the glass), make sure your<br />

guests <strong>are</strong> prep<strong>are</strong>d. Put an explanation<br />

<strong>in</strong> your program to make<br />

sure your guests know when to<br />

participate <strong>and</strong> underst<strong>and</strong> what is expected of<br />

them (e.g. applaud <strong>and</strong> yell mazel tov!).<br />

USE PROFESSIONALS<br />

—Lisa Lucia | L Squ<strong>are</strong>d Affairs<br />

lsqu<strong>are</strong>daffairs.com<br />

Do not trust your wedd<strong>in</strong>g cake to be done by anyone but a<br />

professional. Gett<strong>in</strong>g a good deal on someth<strong>in</strong>g is great but<br />

very risky. We can’t tell you how many c<strong>all</strong>s we get a week from<br />

panicked brides who found a cheap wedd<strong>in</strong>g cake baker who<br />

cancelled on them. <strong>The</strong> worst c<strong>all</strong> to get, though, is a c<strong>all</strong> the day<br />

of the wedd<strong>in</strong>g from a panicked family member who doesn’t<br />

want to tell the bride how bad the cake is <strong>and</strong> is look<strong>in</strong>g to get a<br />

replacement. Skilled professionals charge what they charge for a<br />

reason. Why risk your big day <strong>and</strong> a lifetime of memories?<br />

—Meghan & Daniel Jimenez | Above & Beyond Cakes<br />

above<strong>and</strong>beyondcakes.com<br />

28 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


expert advice<br />

TIPS FROM THE PROS<br />

COMPILED BY KELLEY SAIA<br />

COLOR COORDINATE<br />

If you do not purchase your veil with your dress, to better coord<strong>in</strong>ate colors, wait for your<br />

dress to arrive <strong>and</strong> then shop for accessories. We have seen too many ivory dresses with<br />

bright white veils this season. And, if that veil is a gift, tea dye it to better coord<strong>in</strong>ate.<br />

—Karla Fuentes | Second <strong>Summer</strong> Bride | secondsummerbridesacramento.com<br />

POTTY BREAK<br />

Make sure you have enough restrooms available for<br />

guests <strong>and</strong> vendors. <strong>The</strong> last th<strong>in</strong>g you’d ever want is a<br />

long l<strong>in</strong>e for the restroom, or (gasp!) your male guests<br />

resort<strong>in</strong>g to a nearby bush, so have enough bathrooms<br />

to cover everyone. We gener<strong>all</strong>y recommend three<br />

to four st<strong>all</strong>s for women <strong>and</strong> three st<strong>all</strong>s for men for<br />

a 150-to-175-person wedd<strong>in</strong>g—that works out to be<br />

roughly one bathroom per 25 guests.<br />

—Diana Estrada | Wilk<strong>in</strong>son Portables | wilk<strong>in</strong>sonportables.com<br />

ABOVE: LUXURY RESTROOM TRAILER<br />

FROM WILKINSON PORTABLES /<br />

WILKINSONPORTABLES.COM<br />

CREATE<br />

THE PERFECT<br />

LOUNGE AREA<br />

Provide Seat<strong>in</strong>g for 8+: Make<br />

sure your lounge <strong>are</strong>a can accommodate<br />

at least eight people so<br />

that it keeps a warm, social <strong>and</strong><br />

<strong>in</strong>vit<strong>in</strong>g space.<br />

Light<strong>in</strong>g: Light<strong>in</strong>g the lounge is a<br />

fun way to set the ambiance <strong>and</strong><br />

glam up the space.<br />

Decorate with Bold Accents:<br />

From pillows <strong>and</strong> flowers<br />

ABOVE: LOUNGE AREA BY SACRAMENTO EVENT CO. / SACRAMENTOEVENTCO.COM<br />

FLORAL DESIGN BY WILD FLOWERS DESIGN GROUP / WILDFLOWERSDESIGNGROUP.COM<br />

to umbrellas <strong>and</strong> light fixtures,<br />

pull <strong>in</strong> pops of color<br />

CAKE BY KAREN’S BAKERY / SHOT ON LOCATION AT WEDGEWOOD STERLING HOTEL<br />

PHOTO BY AND FOREVER MORE PHOTO / ANDFOREVERMOREPHOTO.COM;<br />

around your ma<strong>in</strong> lounge <strong>are</strong>a.<br />

Add a Backdrop: Create a w<strong>all</strong> beh<strong>in</strong>d the lounge by us<strong>in</strong>g boxwood hedges.<br />

Create Multiple Lounges <strong>in</strong> One: Start with a table <strong>and</strong> a t<strong>all</strong> floral arrangement as your<br />

center. <strong>The</strong>n, place the back side of four sofas or banquettes around it, <strong>and</strong> build your<br />

lounges by add<strong>in</strong>g more pieces to the four sides. Just be sure to keep <strong>all</strong> four <strong>are</strong>as uniform<br />

<strong>in</strong> look.<br />

Build a “Patio:” Set up your lounge to look like a “patio” off of your event space! Lay down<br />

sisal rugs or carpet to cover the <strong>are</strong>a <strong>and</strong> str<strong>in</strong>g café lights above, then set your lounge up<br />

as you wish.<br />

—Jennifer Corrigan | <strong>Sacramento</strong> Event Co. | sacramentoeventco.com<br />

Host an amaz<strong>in</strong>g<br />

celebration<br />

<strong>and</strong> earn a free<br />

honeymoon.<br />

DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR CUSTOMIZATION<br />

As a wedd<strong>in</strong>g manager, I have many tips <strong>and</strong> recommendations up my sleeve when<br />

it comes to creat<strong>in</strong>g custom wedd<strong>in</strong>g packages. Some couples feel they have to only<br />

choose the pre-assembled or curated wedd<strong>in</strong>g packages offered. Communicate your<br />

ideas <strong>and</strong> cul<strong>in</strong>ary vision to your wedd<strong>in</strong>g manager so they can create someth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

custom. Many couples shudder at the word but it actu<strong>all</strong>y means you have h<strong>and</strong>s-on<br />

power work<strong>in</strong>g with your wedd<strong>in</strong>g manager to create a package unique to you <strong>and</strong><br />

your beloved.<br />

—Leslie Mart<strong>in</strong> | <strong>The</strong> Kimpton Sawyer Hotel | sawyerhotel.com<br />

Host your celebration at our luxury lakefront resort<br />

<strong>and</strong> earn up to five free honeymoon nights at any<br />

Hyatt worldwide. Choose from venues <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g a<br />

private beach, lakeside b<strong>all</strong>room, or stunn<strong>in</strong>g cottage<br />

green on the majestic shore of North Lake <strong>Tahoe</strong>.<br />

For more <strong>in</strong>formation, visit<br />

Hyatt<strong>Tahoe</strong><strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>.com<br />

HYATT REGENCY LAKE TAHOE RESORT, SPA<br />

AND CASINO<br />

111 Country Club Drive<br />

Incl<strong>in</strong>e Village, Nevada 89451<br />

<strong>The</strong> HYATT trademark <strong>and</strong> related marks <strong>are</strong> trademarks of Hyatt Corporation or its affiliates.<br />

© 2017 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 29


expert advice<br />

TIPS FROM THE PROS<br />

COMPILED BY KELLEY SAIA<br />

THE FINISHING TOUCHES<br />

You’ve thoughtfully <strong>and</strong> meticulously chosen the perfect <strong>in</strong>vitation that<br />

meets your unique personality. Now, it’s time to add the f<strong>in</strong>ish<strong>in</strong>g touches<br />

with a few top trends. Some trends <strong>are</strong> ephemeral, <strong>and</strong> others, like the<br />

ris<strong>in</strong>g dem<strong>and</strong> for personalization, <strong>are</strong> <strong>here</strong> to stay. Custom-addressed<br />

envelopes br<strong>in</strong>g a sense of style to stationery with unique h<strong>and</strong>writ<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong><br />

whimsical flourishes. For a more classical look, Copperplate or Spencerian<br />

c<strong>all</strong>igraphy <strong>are</strong> elegant <strong>and</strong> timeless options. But, if you prefer to keep your<br />

style rooted <strong>in</strong> the present, h<strong>and</strong>-letter<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> modern c<strong>all</strong>igraphy <strong>are</strong> sure<br />

ABOVE: CUSTOM ADDRESSING CALLIGRAPHY ways to give <strong>in</strong>vitations a contemporary flair. Once you’ve picked your<br />

BY INK FURIE / INKFURIE.COM<br />

c<strong>all</strong>igraphy style, consider a shimmery <strong>in</strong>k. Met<strong>all</strong>ic gold is a very popular<br />

choice. Not only is it a beautiful color, but its ability to st<strong>and</strong> out on nearly<br />

SWEETHEART TABLE OR<br />

any colored paper, from lustrous cream to dark navy, make it extremely<br />

HEAD TABLE?<br />

versatile. For a f<strong>all</strong> or w<strong>in</strong>ter wedd<strong>in</strong>g, pair deep, jewel tone wedd<strong>in</strong>g papers<br />

with a bold met<strong>all</strong>ic <strong>in</strong>k for an unexpectedly romantic <strong>and</strong> moody<br />

Often, couples will ask us which one<br />

is best: a sweetheart table or a head palette. —Lonna Yen | Ink Furie | <strong>in</strong>kfurie.com<br />

table? Unless your dream wedd<strong>in</strong>g vision<br />

<strong>in</strong>cludes an impressive head table, our<br />

vote is sweetheart! With a sweetheart table,<br />

HOLD AN UNPLUGGED<br />

you can take the time to design <strong>and</strong> dress it<br />

WEDDING CEREMONY<br />

up beautifully, creat<strong>in</strong>g a special space just<br />

Now that just about everyone<br />

for the two of you. We f<strong>in</strong>d that couples with<br />

carries around a cell phone<br />

a sweetheart table actu<strong>all</strong>y eat their d<strong>in</strong>ner,<br />

or device with a camera<br />

too! With a head table, t<strong>here</strong> is more socializ<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

but when you two <strong>are</strong> alone, guests<br />

attached to it, many<br />

couples <strong>are</strong> opt<strong>in</strong>g to have<br />

tend to let you eat. When you <strong>are</strong> ready,<br />

an unplugged wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

you may then get up <strong>and</strong> walk around to<br />

ceremony. What exactly<br />

greet your guests. Head tables can be tricky<br />

is an unplugged wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

if you have wedd<strong>in</strong>g party members with<br />

ceremony you ask? Basic<strong>all</strong>y,<br />

spouses/partners who <strong>are</strong> sitt<strong>in</strong>g at other<br />

it’s w<strong>here</strong> your family <strong>and</strong><br />

tables. Sweetheart tables <strong>are</strong> a wonderful<br />

friends <strong>are</strong> fully present for<br />

photo opportunity, too!<br />

your ceremony <strong>in</strong>stead of<br />

—Jennifer <strong>and</strong> Rick Tan | Tan <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> & Events<br />

view<strong>in</strong>g it from beh<strong>in</strong>d the<br />

tanwedd<strong>in</strong>gs<strong>and</strong>events.com<br />

screen of their smartphone,<br />

device or camera. It means walk<strong>in</strong>g<br />

BELOW: SWEETHEART TABLE PLANNING, DESIGN, COORDINATION, down the aisle <strong>and</strong> actu<strong>all</strong>y SEEING<br />

ABOVE: PHOTO BY<br />

SIGNAGE, PAPERIE AND FLORAL DESIGN BY TAN WEDDINGS & EVENTS /<br />

ANDREW & MELANIE PHOTOGRAPHY /<br />

the happy <strong>and</strong> supportive faces of<br />

TANWEDDINGSANDEVENTS.COM<br />

ANDREWANDMELANIE.COM<br />

PHOTO BY AMBER MCHUGH PHOTOGRAPHY / your loved ones, <strong>in</strong>stead of be<strong>in</strong>g<br />

UNIQUEPHOTOGRAPHYBYAMBER.ZENFOLIO.COM met with distract<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> impersonal cameras, flashes <strong>and</strong> mobile<br />

devices. After be<strong>in</strong>g part of hundreds of wedd<strong>in</strong>gs, we can honestly<br />

say that unplugged wedd<strong>in</strong>g ceremonies have a completely<br />

different feel from ceremonies w<strong>here</strong> everyone, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Gr<strong>and</strong>ma,<br />

is hold<strong>in</strong>g up an electronic device. If you <strong>in</strong>vest <strong>in</strong> hav<strong>in</strong>g great<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g photography, know that your wedd<strong>in</strong>g day will be fully<br />

documented <strong>in</strong> a beautiful <strong>and</strong> artistic way, <strong>all</strong>ow<strong>in</strong>g your families to<br />

relax <strong>and</strong> enjoy themselves.<br />

—Melanie & Andy | Andrew & Melanie Photography | <strong>and</strong>rew<strong>and</strong>melanie.com<br />

SCHEDULE RELAXATION IN YOUR PREP TIMELINE<br />

As you’ve prep<strong>are</strong>d for your amaz<strong>in</strong>g dream day, I’d highly recommend not rush<strong>in</strong>g. I want you to relax <strong>and</strong> enjoy the<br />

beauty process, <strong>and</strong> make sure to have a chat with your hair <strong>and</strong> makeup team prior to make sure th<strong>in</strong>gs run smoothly.<br />

As a professional, I always schedule <strong>in</strong>to the day a little extra time for any unforeseen <strong>in</strong>cidents, to ensure that you <strong>are</strong>n’t<br />

rushed. Also, its essential to have your sk<strong>in</strong> cleaned, exfoliated <strong>and</strong> hydrated so you can achieve that flawless makeup<br />

application. Lastly, a button-down shirt is always a great idea. It helps for when you <strong>are</strong> done with hair <strong>and</strong> makeup so<br />

that you <strong>are</strong>n’t struggl<strong>in</strong>g to lift a T-shirt over your beautiful hair <strong>and</strong> face, possibly mess<strong>in</strong>g up what your professional<br />

team has worked so hard to create for you!<br />

—Happi Ybarra | Happily Beautiful Makeup Artistry & Sk<strong>in</strong> Studio | happilybeautifulmakeup.com<br />

30 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


expert advice<br />

TIPS FROM THE PROS<br />

COMPILED BY KELLEY SAIA<br />

KEEP IT FRESH...AND FLEXIBLE<br />

Hire a professional that’s been work<strong>in</strong>g with flowers long enough that they<br />

not only know how to design with them but what longevity each flower<br />

has. <strong>The</strong>re <strong>are</strong> a lot of flowers used <strong>in</strong> styled shoots <strong>and</strong> on magaz<strong>in</strong>e covers<br />

that <strong>are</strong> not go<strong>in</strong>g to last for your eight hour (<strong>and</strong> longer) wedd<strong>in</strong>g day.<br />

Discuss flower options with your floral vendor <strong>in</strong> your design meet<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

<strong>and</strong> trust them to make the designs amaz<strong>in</strong>g based on their floral knowledge.<br />

ABOVE: BOUQUET BY GARDEN OF WEEDON DESIGNS / <strong>The</strong>y may need to sub a floral variety due to the season, but they will make it<br />

GARDENOFWEEDON.COM<br />

absolutely beautiful for your wedd<strong>in</strong>g day. Speak<strong>in</strong>g of seasonal flowers, <strong>are</strong>a<br />

floral designers have been pay<strong>in</strong>g attention <strong>and</strong> us<strong>in</strong>g local flowers when we<br />

can. Local flower farmers <strong>in</strong> the <strong>Sacramento</strong> V<strong>all</strong>ey <strong>are</strong> communicat<strong>in</strong>g with wedd<strong>in</strong>g florists like us to see what colors <strong>are</strong><br />

com<strong>in</strong>g up so we can purchase more local blooms. Our experience with local blooms is that they <strong>are</strong> cut from the field<br />

<strong>and</strong> h<strong>and</strong>ed over almost the same day. <strong>The</strong>y have stronger stems <strong>and</strong> flower heads. Use local products for better design<br />

quality; make sure your florist is not just design-oriented but flower knowledgeable, <strong>and</strong> trust your florist to choose the<br />

flowers for you based on a design concept so you can get a better product <strong>and</strong> better design. It’s a w<strong>in</strong>-w<strong>in</strong> for your wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

day. —Suzanne O’Brien | Garden of Weedon Designs | gardenofweedon.com<br />

BE REALISTIC ABOUT YOUR BUDGET<br />

If your pictures <strong>are</strong> a P<strong>in</strong>terest masterpiece, keep <strong>in</strong><br />

m<strong>in</strong>d that your budget may need to stretch a bit.<br />

Even <strong>all</strong>-greenery wedd<strong>in</strong>gs add up if you have 10<br />

bridesmaids <strong>and</strong> 400 attendees <strong>and</strong> want <strong>all</strong> the<br />

bells <strong>and</strong> whistles. Be prep<strong>are</strong>d to cut a few items if<br />

necessary. Also, most florists use a st<strong>and</strong>ard equation<br />

for creat<strong>in</strong>g their proposals, <strong>and</strong> their prices <strong>are</strong> <strong>in</strong> a<br />

similar wheelhouse. So shop around for a florist that<br />

re<strong>all</strong>y listens to you <strong>and</strong> whose work you love. <strong>The</strong>y<br />

ABOVE: BOUQUET BY<br />

can <strong>all</strong> def<strong>in</strong>itely tell you if your budget is realistic<br />

HILLSIDE BLOOMS FLORISTRY /<br />

HILLSIDEBLOOMSFLORISTRY.COM<br />

for what you’re envision<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

—C<strong>in</strong>dy Magan | Hillside Blooms Floristry | hillsidebloomsfloristry.com<br />

START THE PARTY<br />

Hav<strong>in</strong>g tasty, h<strong>and</strong>-passed appetizers<br />

<strong>and</strong> delicious beverages<br />

dur<strong>in</strong>g a cocktail hour re<strong>all</strong>y sets a<br />

tone. Nobody likes a l<strong>in</strong>e at the bar<br />

or at a food station. Instead, br<strong>in</strong>g<br />

the food to them <strong>and</strong> provide a<br />

higher level of service while your<br />

guests enjoy the ambiance of your<br />

event space.<br />

—Travis Mraz<br />

West Shore Café & Inn<br />

westshorecafe.com<br />

cater<strong>in</strong>gbydesignrockl<strong>in</strong>.com<br />

916-792-6485<br />

DON’T STRESS ABOUT CHECK-OUT TIMES<br />

If you’re gett<strong>in</strong>g ready <strong>in</strong> a rented room, whether it be a hotel, an Airbnb or w<strong>here</strong>ver, consider rent<strong>in</strong>g the space for the<br />

night of the wedd<strong>in</strong>g too, not just the night before, so t<strong>here</strong> is no rush to beat check-out time. Otherwise, everyone has to<br />

pack <strong>and</strong> clean—<strong>all</strong> while try<strong>in</strong>g to get ready <strong>and</strong> be stress free—right before they take photos. After the wedd<strong>in</strong>g, either<br />

the newlyweds can stay t<strong>here</strong> or maybe a special family member; just assign someone to go back <strong>and</strong> tidy up a little bit<br />

after the festivities. —Kylie Compton | Kylie Compton Photography | kyliecomptonphotography.com<br />

BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> trends come <strong>and</strong> go—some<br />

for better <strong>and</strong> some for worse. Current<br />

trends, however, <strong>are</strong> mak<strong>in</strong>g everyone<br />

<strong>in</strong> the wedd<strong>in</strong>g world, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g bakers,<br />

very happy. Trend<strong>in</strong>g now <strong>are</strong> color <strong>and</strong><br />

texture statements. Both neutral <strong>and</strong> bold<br />

colors <strong>are</strong> mak<strong>in</strong>g their way back. Mixed<br />

metals <strong>and</strong> bold tones br<strong>in</strong>g a more mascul<strong>in</strong>e<br />

touch, lend<strong>in</strong>g themselves to romantic<br />

<strong>and</strong> elegant styles. Texture details<br />

<strong>all</strong>ow these color comb<strong>in</strong>ations to pop<br />

<strong>and</strong> have their voice. <strong>The</strong>se trends don’t<br />

ABOVE: CAKE BY GO WEST BAKING AND<br />

only apply to décor, design <strong>and</strong> wardrobe,<br />

but also <strong>in</strong> cake <strong>and</strong> dessert selec-<br />

EVENTS / GOWESTBAKINGANDEVENTS.COM<br />

tions. <strong>The</strong> cake is back, bigger <strong>and</strong> better<br />

than ever, <strong>and</strong> is a great way to make a beautiful statement.<br />

—Br<strong>and</strong>y West | Go West Bak<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> Events | gowestbak<strong>in</strong>g<strong>and</strong>events.com<br />

Experience makes these wedd<strong>in</strong>g partners<br />

experts <strong>and</strong> passion makes them people—<br />

they have a comb<strong>in</strong>ed 1,500 years of experience<br />

(okay, we admit we made that number<br />

up but if we did the actual calculations, it’s<br />

probably not that far off!). Whenever tak<strong>in</strong>g<br />

advice, especi<strong>all</strong>y <strong>in</strong> regards to your wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

day, always consider the source. And above<br />

<strong>all</strong>, do what makes you happy <strong>and</strong> will lead<br />

you <strong>and</strong> your soon-to-be toward a lifetime of<br />

happ<strong>in</strong>ess. Happy plann<strong>in</strong>g!<br />

> WANT MORE?<br />

Tune <strong>in</strong>to our website<br />

for Kelley’s<br />

“Tips from the Pros”<br />

blog post series!<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 31


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events calendar<br />

BOOK YOUR DREAM WEDDING<br />

HISTORIC OAKDALE RANCH<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> & Event Venue<br />

(530) 507-8048 oakdaleranch@hotmail.com<br />

historicoakdaleranch.com<br />

w <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Wars Expo<br />

w Redd<strong>in</strong>g Bridal Show<br />

Bay Area <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Fairs<br />

June 9, <strong>2019</strong> at <strong>The</strong> M<strong>in</strong>t, San Francisco. August 11, <strong>2019</strong> at the Redd<strong>in</strong>g Civic September 15, <strong>2019</strong> at <strong>The</strong> Marriott,<br />

2-6 p.m. Admission is $30 or FREE Auditorium, Redd<strong>in</strong>g. 12-4 p.m. Admission<br />

Walnut Creek. 12-4 p.m. Admission is $15<br />

when you use promo code “RWM”<br />

is $10. redd<strong>in</strong>gbridalshow.com onl<strong>in</strong>e; $25 at the door.<br />

onl<strong>in</strong>e. wedd<strong>in</strong>gwarsexpo.com<br />

bay<strong>are</strong>awedd<strong>in</strong>gfairs.com<br />

See ad on page 88<br />

w Ultimate Bridal Show<br />

August 11, <strong>2019</strong> at Crowne Plaza International <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong><br />

w Silverado Resort<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong>, <strong>Sacramento</strong>. 12-4 p.m. Festival Modesto<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Showcase<br />

Tickets <strong>are</strong> $10 at the door or $5 if you September 15, <strong>2019</strong> at Modesto Centre<br />

June 23, <strong>2019</strong> at Silverado Resort, pre-register onl<strong>in</strong>e or get<br />

Plaza Doubletree, Modesto. 11 a.m.–3 p.m.<br />

Napa. 12-3 p.m. Admission is $15 at the TWO FREE TICKETS when you use Admission is $15.<br />

door or free if you pre-register onl<strong>in</strong>e. promo code “RWM19” onl<strong>in</strong>e. <strong>in</strong>ternationalwedd<strong>in</strong>gfestival.com<br />

real<br />

real<br />

eventshowpro.com<br />

ultimatebridalshows.com<br />

See ad on page 85<br />

w <strong>The</strong> Live + Love Expo<br />

real<br />

July 7, <strong>2019</strong> at <strong>The</strong> West<strong>in</strong> San<br />

Francisco Airport, Millbrae. 2-6 p.m.<br />

Admission is $25 or FREE when you<br />

use promo code “RWM” onl<strong>in</strong>e.<br />

theliveloveexpo.com<br />

See ad on page 35<br />

w<br />

real<br />

An Even<strong>in</strong>g of Elegance<br />

Bridal Expo<br />

July 10, <strong>2019</strong> at Holiday Inn <strong>Sacramento</strong><br />

Downtown Arena, <strong>Sacramento</strong>.<br />

5-9 p.m. Admission is $15.<br />

bridal-expos.com<br />

w<br />

real<br />

Arden Hills Bridal Open House<br />

July 21, <strong>2019</strong> at Arden Hills, <strong>Sacramento</strong>.<br />

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Admission is free.<br />

ardenhills.club<br />

See venue ad on page 25<br />

w<br />

real<br />

Orchard Creek Lodge<br />

Bridal Open House<br />

July 28, <strong>2019</strong> at Orchard Creek Lodge,<br />

L<strong>in</strong>coln. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission is<br />

free. orchardcreeklodge.com<br />

See venue ad on page 58<br />

Bay Area <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Fairs<br />

July 28, <strong>2019</strong> at Crowne Plaza, Palo<br />

Alto. 3-7 p.m. Admission is $15 onl<strong>in</strong>e;<br />

$25 at the door.<br />

bay<strong>are</strong>awedd<strong>in</strong>gfairs.com<br />

Bay Area <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Fairs<br />

August 4, <strong>2019</strong> DoubleTree by Hilton,<br />

San Jose. 3-7 p.m. Admission is $15<br />

onl<strong>in</strong>e; $25 at the door.<br />

bay<strong>are</strong>awedd<strong>in</strong>gfairs.com<br />

International <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Festival Lodi<br />

August 4, <strong>2019</strong> at Hutch<strong>in</strong>s Street<br />

Squ<strong>are</strong>, Lodi. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Admission<br />

is $15. <strong>in</strong>ternationalwedd<strong>in</strong>gfestival.<br />

com<br />

real<br />

real<br />

September 19, <strong>2019</strong> at Vizcaya, Sacra-<br />

w Chico Bridal Show<br />

mento. 6-8 p.m. Admission is free.<br />

August 18, <strong>2019</strong> at Silver Dollar Fairgrounds,<br />

vizcayasacramento.com<br />

Chico. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Admis-<br />

See venue ad on page<br />

9<br />

real<br />

sion is $10 for adults; $1 for children<br />

12 to 16; children under 11 <strong>are</strong> free with<br />

pay<strong>in</strong>g adult. chicobridalshow.com<br />

w <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Wars Expo<br />

real<br />

August 25, <strong>2019</strong> at <strong>The</strong> GlassHouse,<br />

San Jose. 2-6 p.m. Admission is $30<br />

or FREE when you use promo code<br />

“RWM” onl<strong>in</strong>e. wedd<strong>in</strong>gwarsexpo.com<br />

See ad on page 88<br />

Bay Area <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Fairs<br />

August 25, <strong>2019</strong> at Parc 55, San Francisco.<br />

3-7 p.m. Admission is $15 onl<strong>in</strong>e;<br />

$25 at the door.<br />

bay<strong>are</strong>awedd<strong>in</strong>gfairs.com<br />

w<br />

real<br />

Arden Hills Bridal Open House<br />

September 4, <strong>2019</strong> at Arden Hills,<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong>. 5:30-8 p.m. Admission is<br />

free. ardenhills.club<br />

See venue ad on page 25<br />

w<br />

real<br />

Luxury <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Show -<br />

Roseville<br />

September 8, <strong>2019</strong> at Catta Verdera,<br />

L<strong>in</strong>coln. 12-4 p.m. Admission is $15<br />

onl<strong>in</strong>e; $20 at the door.<br />

luxurywedd<strong>in</strong>gshows.com<br />

Like the <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> FB page <strong>and</strong><br />

watch for notices of our free ticket<br />

giveway to this event<br />

See ad on page 33<br />

w<br />

real<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Sacramento</strong> Event<br />

& <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Expo<br />

September 15, <strong>2019</strong> at Cal-Expo, <strong>Sacramento</strong>.<br />

10 a.m.-4 p.m.<br />

saceventexpo.com<br />

Like the <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> FB page <strong>and</strong><br />

watch for notices of our free ticket<br />

giveway to this event!<br />

See ad on page 37<br />

w<br />

real<br />

Vizcaya <strong>Sacramento</strong> Open House<br />

w<br />

real<br />

Sterl<strong>in</strong>g Hotel <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Faire<br />

September 29, <strong>2019</strong> at Sterl<strong>in</strong>g Hotel,<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong>. 12-3 p.m. Admission is free,<br />

but RSVP <strong>in</strong> advance.<br />

sterl<strong>in</strong>ghotelsacramento.com<br />

w<br />

real<br />

<strong>The</strong> Live + Love Expo<br />

October 6, <strong>2019</strong> at Embassy Suites by<br />

Hilton San Francisco, South San Francisco.<br />

2-6 p.m. Admission is $25 or FREE when<br />

you use promo code “RWM” onl<strong>in</strong>e.<br />

theliveloveexpo.com<br />

See ad on page 35<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Bridal Showcase &<br />

Greater Reno Women's Expo<br />

October 13, <strong>2019</strong> at Gr<strong>and</strong> Sierra Resort,<br />

Reno. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is $12.<br />

lockettshows.com<br />

w<br />

real<br />

Arden Hills Bridal Open House<br />

October 20, <strong>2019</strong> at Arden Hills, <strong>Sacramento</strong>.<br />

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Admission is free.<br />

ardenhills.club<br />

See venue ad on page 25<br />

w<br />

real<br />

Orchard Creek Lodge<br />

Bridal Open House<br />

October 20, <strong>2019</strong> at Orchard Creek<br />

Lodge, L<strong>in</strong>coln. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission is<br />

free. orchardcreeklodge.com<br />

See venue ad on page 58<br />

w<br />

real<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Tours of Yolo County<br />

October 20, <strong>2019</strong> start<strong>in</strong>g at 10:30 a.m.<br />

Admission is $10 for early birds; $25 at the<br />

door. wedd<strong>in</strong>gtoursofyolocounty.com<br />

Bay Area <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Fairs<br />

October 27, <strong>2019</strong> at DoubleTree by Hilton,<br />

Berkeley. 12-4 p.m. Admission is $15 onl<strong>in</strong>e;<br />

$25 at the door.<br />

bay<strong>are</strong>awedd<strong>in</strong>gfairs.com<br />

F<strong>in</strong>d up-to-date wedd<strong>in</strong>g event <strong>in</strong>formation at realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com/events<br />

34 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


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events calendar<br />

Bay Area <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Fairs<br />

November 3, <strong>2019</strong> at DoubleTree by<br />

Hilton, Pleasanton. 12-4 p.m. Admission<br />

is $15 onl<strong>in</strong>e; $25 at the door.<br />

bay<strong>are</strong>awedd<strong>in</strong>gfairs.com<br />

w <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Wars Expo<br />

real<br />

November 10, <strong>2019</strong> at Fairmont<br />

Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, Sonoma.<br />

2-6 p.m. Admission is $30 or FREE<br />

when you use promo code “RWM”<br />

onl<strong>in</strong>e. wedd<strong>in</strong>gwarsexpo.com<br />

See ad on page 88<br />

w<br />

real<br />

Arden Hills Bridal Open House<br />

November 13, <strong>2019</strong> at Arden Hills,<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong>. 5:30-8 p.m. Admission is<br />

free. ardenhills.club<br />

See venue ad on page 25<br />

w<br />

real<br />

Luxury <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Show -<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong><br />

January 5, 2020 at Hyatt Regency,<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong>. 12-4 p.m. Admission is<br />

$15 onl<strong>in</strong>e; $20 at the door.<br />

luxurywedd<strong>in</strong>gshows.com<br />

Like the <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> FB page <strong>and</strong><br />

watch for notices of our free ticket<br />

giveway to this event<br />

See ad on page 33<br />

w<br />

real<br />

Chico Bridal Show<br />

January 12, 2020 at Silver Dollar Fairgrounds,<br />

Chico. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission<br />

is $10 for adults; $1 for children<br />

12 to 16; children under 11 <strong>are</strong> free with<br />

pay<strong>in</strong>g adult. chicobridalshow.com<br />

w<br />

real<br />

<strong>The</strong> Live + Love Expo<br />

January 12, 2020 at Pauley B<strong>all</strong>room,<br />

Berkeley. 2-6 p.m. Admission is $25<br />

or FREE when you use promo code<br />

“RWM” onl<strong>in</strong>e. theliveloveexpo.com<br />

See ad on page 35<br />

w <strong>The</strong> Firehouse<br />

real<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Showcase<br />

January 19, 2020 at the Firehouse<br />

Restaurant, Old <strong>Sacramento</strong>. 1-4 p.m.<br />

Admission is $5 onl<strong>in</strong>e; $10 at the<br />

door. firehouseoldsac.com<br />

See venue ad on page 159<br />

w Grass V<strong>all</strong>ey <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Fair<br />

real<br />

January 19, 2020 at Nevada County<br />

Fairgrounds, Grass V<strong>all</strong>ey. 12-4 p.m.<br />

Admission is free. joyoflifeevents.com<br />

w<br />

real<br />

Yuba-Sutter Bridal Show<br />

January 26, 2020 at Yuba-Sutter<br />

Fairgrounds <strong>in</strong> Yuba City. 12-4 p.m.<br />

Admission is $7 for adults 17 <strong>and</strong><br />

up; Children 12 <strong>and</strong> over $1; Children<br />

under 12 free with a pay<strong>in</strong>g adult.<br />

ysbridalshow.com<br />

International <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong><br />

Festival Modesto<br />

January 26, 2020 at Modesto Centre<br />

Plaza Doubletree, Modesto. 11 a.m.–3<br />

p.m. Admission is $15.<br />

<strong>in</strong>ternationalwedd<strong>in</strong>gfestival.com<br />

w<br />

real<br />

Granite Bay Golf Club's<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Sip & See<br />

February 6, 2020 at Granite Bay Golf<br />

Club, Granite Bay. 5:30-8 p.m. Admission<br />

is free but RSVP <strong>in</strong> advance.<br />

granitebayclub.com<br />

See venue ad on page 19<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Bridal Showcase & Greater<br />

Reno Women's Expo<br />

February 9, 2020 at Gr<strong>and</strong> Sierra Resort,<br />

Reno. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is<br />

$12. lockettshows.com<br />

w <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Wars Expo<br />

February 23, 2020 at Silverado Resort &<br />

Spa, Napa. 2-6 p.m. Admission is $30 or<br />

FREE when you use promo code “RWM”<br />

onl<strong>in</strong>e. wedd<strong>in</strong>gwarsexpo.com<br />

See ad on page 88<br />

real<br />

SAVE THE DATE...<br />

Editor’s note: as of press time, these<br />

upcom<strong>in</strong>g events were still pend<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

w Enchant<strong>in</strong>g Bridal Show<br />

January 2020; enchant<strong>in</strong>gbridalshow.com<br />

real<br />

w <strong>The</strong> Vacaville Opera House <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> &<br />

Event Fair Open House<br />

January 2020; vacavilleoperahouse.com<br />

real<br />

w Calaveras Bridal Faire<br />

January 2020; calaveraswedd<strong>in</strong>gs.com<br />

real<br />

w Woodl<strong>and</strong> Bridal Show<br />

February 2020; cityofwoodl<strong>and</strong>.org<br />

real<br />

w It's a <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Affair -<br />

Cameron Park Bridal Show<br />

February 2020; cameronpark.org<br />

real<br />

w LGBT <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Expo<br />

March 2020; saclgbtwedd<strong>in</strong>gexpo.com<br />

real<br />

w Sonora <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Faire<br />

March 2020; sonorawedd<strong>in</strong>gs.net<br />

real<br />

Please visit show producers’ websites for<br />

specific details about each event. Note<br />

that <strong>all</strong> <strong>in</strong>formation is subject to change—<br />

confirm details before you head to the<br />

events.<br />

w Denotes events w<strong>here</strong> you can get<br />

one of our groovy reusable tote bags,<br />

along with complimentary copies of <strong>Real</strong><br />

<strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> <strong>Magaz<strong>in</strong>e</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong><br />

<strong>Magaz<strong>in</strong>e</strong>’s <strong>The</strong> Plann<strong>in</strong>g Guide, <strong>and</strong> sign<br />

up for our fantastic giveaways—so mark<br />

your calendars <strong>and</strong> stop by <strong>and</strong> say “hi!”<br />

real<br />

WEDDING SHOW TIPS<br />

Before you head out to the <strong>are</strong>a’s wedd<strong>in</strong>g shows, check out this h<strong>and</strong>y little list of tips to make the most of the experience:<br />

• Get a dedicated “wedd<strong>in</strong>g” email address—you’ll want to have a specific email address just for plann<strong>in</strong>g your<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g. You’ll be gett<strong>in</strong>g a lot of <strong>in</strong>formation sent to the email that you register with at wedd<strong>in</strong>g shows, so it’s nice<br />

to have it <strong>all</strong> <strong>in</strong> one place separate from your work <strong>and</strong>/or personal email.<br />

• Br<strong>in</strong>g labels—many vendors offer prizes <strong>and</strong> contests, <strong>and</strong> addition<strong>all</strong>y, you may want to request more<br />

<strong>in</strong>formation from selected vendors. By br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g pre-pr<strong>in</strong>ted labels, you will save time <strong>and</strong> the hassle of hav<strong>in</strong>g to<br />

complete this <strong>in</strong>formation booth after booth. Information that you might want to <strong>in</strong>clude: your name, address,<br />

phone, email (see bullet po<strong>in</strong>t above!), fiancé’s/fiancée’s name <strong>and</strong> when you’re gett<strong>in</strong>g married.<br />

• Don’t go it alone—br<strong>in</strong>g one of your attendants, your mom or a friend (or d<strong>are</strong> we suggest, your fiancé/fiancée?). It will be helpful (<strong>and</strong> more<br />

fun!) to have their <strong>in</strong>put <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

• Br<strong>in</strong>g a notebook—no matter how good your memory is you’ll want to take notes on vendors <strong>and</strong> ideas that catch your eye.<br />

• Br<strong>in</strong>g a sturdy tote bag—you’ll be pick<strong>in</strong>g up bus<strong>in</strong>ess cards, brochures, etc. <strong>and</strong> it’s easier to stash it <strong>in</strong> a tote than try to carry it <strong>all</strong> <strong>in</strong> your<br />

h<strong>and</strong>s...especi<strong>all</strong>y if you want to sample some of the yummy temptations offered at a lot of the events! Or, come to the shows w<strong>here</strong> <strong>Real</strong><br />

<strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> will be, come by our booth, <strong>and</strong> we’ll give you one of our groovy reusable bags!<br />

F<strong>in</strong>d up-to-date wedd<strong>in</strong>g event <strong>in</strong>formation at realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com/events<br />

36 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


MORE<br />

Ideas<br />

Inspiration<br />

Fun<br />

September 15, <strong>2019</strong><br />

10am - 4pm<br />

@ Cal Expo<br />

brought to you by<br />

sponsored by<br />

WHOLESALE LINEN RENTALS<br />

<strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> • Birthdays • Bus<strong>in</strong>ess Events •<br />

Qu<strong>in</strong>ceañeras • Anniversaries •<br />

Bar & Bat Mitzvahs • <strong>and</strong> so much more...<br />

<strong>The</strong> one <strong>and</strong> only expo of its k<strong>in</strong>d <strong>in</strong> <strong>Sacramento</strong>!<br />

Passport to Prizes!<br />

Cupcake samples<br />

Disc golf<br />

Mock-tails<br />

Mock Event Setup for Inspiration<br />

Food Samples<br />

Photo Booths<br />

Party Rentals<br />

Live Enterta<strong>in</strong>ment<br />

saceventexpo.com • show@saceventexpo.com<br />

facebook.com/SacEventExpo • l<strong>in</strong>ked<strong>in</strong>.com/company/saceventexpo


for your review<br />

TOOLS TO HELP YOU PLAN<br />

BY SHARON PENNY<br />

PODCASTS AND APPS: Need some help with your plann<strong>in</strong>g? <strong>The</strong>re’s a<br />

plethora of wedd<strong>in</strong>g resources out t<strong>here</strong>...books, videos, blogs, apps, podcasts <strong>and</strong><br />

more—for this issue we focus on podcasts <strong>and</strong> apps: some wedd<strong>in</strong>g related, some<br />

not, but <strong>all</strong> good for you! And, *SPOILER ALERT* we have more on our blog!<br />

BRIDECHILLA<br />

PODCAST<br />

Hosted by comedian Aleisha McCormack,<br />

this podcast is the straight-talk<strong>in</strong>g virtual<br />

bridesmaid you need <strong>in</strong> your life. Episode<br />

title example: Stop Say<strong>in</strong>g Yes To Sh*t You<br />

Hate. Scald<strong>in</strong>g tea, ready to serve.<br />

ONE FAB DAY PODCAST<br />

Everyth<strong>in</strong>g you love about OneFabDay.com<br />

now <strong>in</strong> podcast form with your hosts, One<br />

Fab Day editors Cel<strong>in</strong>a <strong>and</strong> Claire, dish<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>all</strong> the judgment-free real-talk on stressfree,<br />

fab, common-sense<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

WEDDING<br />

PLANNING PODCAST<br />

Lean <strong>in</strong>to wedd<strong>in</strong>g plann<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> a big way<br />

with these weekly plann<strong>in</strong>g ‘meet<strong>in</strong>gs’<br />

i.e. episodes, hosted by Kara Lamerato of<br />

Kara’s V<strong>in</strong>eyard <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>.<br />

FROM RING TO VEIL<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> planners Shannon Palmer <strong>and</strong><br />

Kim Mills give you <strong>all</strong> the <strong>in</strong>terviews,<br />

advice, <strong>and</strong> <strong>in</strong>sider secrets you could<br />

ever hope for.<br />

THE BIG WEDDING<br />

PLANNING PODCAST<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> consultants Michelle Mart<strong>in</strong>ez<br />

& Christy Matthews take the stress out of<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g plann<strong>in</strong>g with this fun-lov<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

secret-filled audio-boost for your big day.<br />

WHERE SHOULD WE BEGIN<br />

<strong>Real</strong>-life therapist Esther Perel lets you<br />

listen <strong>in</strong> on her sessions with couples,<br />

<strong>and</strong> the results <strong>are</strong> <strong>in</strong>credibly mov<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong><br />

thought-provok<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Made my wedd<strong>in</strong>g Dream<br />

come true. This is the<br />

ideal place for an outdoor<br />

picturesque wedd<strong>in</strong>g!<br />

Sasha<br />

September, 2018<br />

My wedd<strong>in</strong>g with the<br />

Old Sugar Mill was<br />

<strong>in</strong>credible. <strong>The</strong>y were<br />

so accommodat<strong>in</strong>g<br />

with a smile on their<br />

face. I had no worries<br />

that day <strong>and</strong> couldn’t<br />

be more thankful.<br />

DEAR SUGARS<br />

Co-hosts Cheryl Strayed <strong>and</strong> Steve Almond<br />

<strong>are</strong> the hug you need when you most need<br />

it. This is the audio version of her hugely<br />

popular advice column Dear Sugar, <strong>and</strong> you<br />

need this <strong>in</strong> your life.<br />

OPRAH’S SUPERSOUL<br />

CONVERSATIONS<br />

Let the One True Goddess of Our World, i.e.,<br />

Oprah W<strong>in</strong>frey, enrich your soul with <strong>in</strong>telligent,<br />

stirr<strong>in</strong>g, life-affirm<strong>in</strong>g conversations<br />

with guests like Eckhart Tolle, Brene Brown,<br />

<strong>and</strong> more.<br />

UNTANGLE<br />

From the Zen geniuses beh<strong>in</strong>d the<br />

Meditation Studio app, this podcast<br />

sh<strong>are</strong>s stories of people who successfully<br />

untangle themselves from modern life,<br />

teach<strong>in</strong>g you how to slow down, lower<br />

stress <strong>and</strong> f<strong>in</strong>d calm when you need it.<br />

Brittany<br />

June, 2018<br />

Now Reserv<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Dates For 2020<br />

REAL WEDDINGS<br />

Yes, we admit this is a shameless<br />

plug! Check out our br<strong>and</strong>-new<br />

mobile app that <strong>all</strong>ows you to enjoy<br />

our helpful blogs, f<strong>in</strong>d vendors <strong>and</strong><br />

read our digital editions!<br />

BONUS: once you download our FREE<br />

mobile app, get our mobile directory<br />

app too: launch the browser on<br />

your phone <strong>and</strong> go to: thewhitelist.<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

BURNER<br />

Flex your tech muscle <strong>and</strong><br />

use this app as your wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

hotl<strong>in</strong>e. Doubles as a second<br />

phone for <strong>all</strong> your wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

related texts, phonec<strong>all</strong>s,<br />

etc. Integrates with other<br />

external apps like Dropbox,<br />

Google Drive <strong>and</strong> Slack so<br />

you can archive message <strong>and</strong><br />

voicemails too.<br />

WEDWORDY.COM<br />

This h<strong>and</strong>y web app helps take <strong>all</strong> the guesswork out of<br />

writ<strong>in</strong>g your own ceremony. Designed by Davis locals<br />

Jennifer & Rick Tan of Tan <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> & Events.<br />

> WANT MORE<br />

“FOR YOUR REVIEW?”<br />

Tune <strong>in</strong> to our blog for<br />

even more plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

resources from Sharon!<br />

38 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


for your review<br />

TOOLS TO HELP YOU PLAN<br />

BY SHARON PENNY<br />

THE TUNES: Perhaps you’ve picked<br />

your favorite song for your first dance,<br />

but your bestie is us<strong>in</strong>g the same song<br />

at her wedd<strong>in</strong>g! Or you’re just draw<strong>in</strong>g a<br />

blank <strong>and</strong> look<strong>in</strong>g for a little <strong>in</strong>spiration.<br />

Either way, we’re <strong>here</strong> to help. This issue,<br />

we tackle the country hits!<br />

if you like: SPEECHLESS BY DAN + SHAY<br />

consider: ALWAYS REMEMBER US THIS WAY<br />

BY LADY GAGA<br />

(FROM A STAR IS BORN SOUNDTRACK)<br />

No, YOU have been listen<strong>in</strong>g to the soundtrack on repeat.<br />

if you like: COWBOY TAKE ME AWAY<br />

BY DIXIE CHICKS<br />

consider: I HOPE YOU’RE THE END OF MY STORY<br />

BY PISTOL ANNIES<br />

Don’t get us wrong, we love cowboys, but Mir<strong>and</strong>a Lambert, Ashley Monroe, <strong>and</strong><br />

Angaleena Presley aka Pistol Annies will have you <strong>and</strong> <strong>all</strong> of your loved ones<br />

weep<strong>in</strong>g tears of joy as you sp<strong>in</strong> to this beauty.<br />

if you like: BREATHE BY FAITH HILL<br />

consider: BECAUSE YOU LOVE ME<br />

BY JO DEE MESSINA<br />

<strong>The</strong>re’s room for more than one queen <strong>in</strong> the country music royal<br />

k<strong>in</strong>gdom, <strong>and</strong> Jo Dee Mess<strong>in</strong>a deserves a throne. This beauty from 1998<br />

will sweep you off your feet.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Stone House-Nevada City WEdd<strong>in</strong>g Venue-SF19.<strong>in</strong>dd 1<br />

5/20/19 6:06 PM<br />

if you like: ALWAYS ON MY MIND<br />

BY WILLIE NELSON<br />

consider: YOU REALLY GOT A HOLD ON ME<br />

BY MICKEY GILLEY<br />

Willie’s Elvis cover is perfection, it’s true. But if you’re <strong>in</strong> the mood for<br />

a little less regret, Mickey Gilley’s beautiful, heartfelt 1984 cover of<br />

<strong>The</strong> Miracles classic is w<strong>here</strong> it’s at.<br />

if you like: SHE’S EVERYTHING<br />

BY BRAD PAISLEY<br />

consider: LOVE YOUR LOVE THE MOST<br />

BY ERIC CHURCH<br />

If your best man balks at the soppy stuff, he might perk up at sp<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g you<br />

round the floor to this Eric Church classic. Wedged between barbecue <strong>and</strong><br />

trucks, the genu<strong>in</strong>e declaration of love will slay them <strong>in</strong> the aisles.<br />

if you like: SHE’S IN LOVE WITH THE BOY<br />

BY TRISHA YEARWOOD<br />

consider: SAFE IN THE ARMS OF LOVE<br />

BY MARTINA MCBRIDE<br />

(whispers: you can tot<strong>all</strong>y dance to Trisha, I’ll never tell<br />

you not to.) Your wedd<strong>in</strong>g dance floor is an altar, <strong>and</strong><br />

<strong>here</strong> you rightfully worship ‘90s female country stars.<br />

Praise Mart<strong>in</strong>a <strong>and</strong> twirl your dang veil off.<br />

if you like: MY BEST FRIEND BY TIM MCGRAW<br />

consider: COVER ME UP BY JASON ISBELL<br />

<strong>The</strong>re’s no sense <strong>in</strong> compet<strong>in</strong>g with Tim McGraw, so I’m c<strong>all</strong><strong>in</strong>g<br />

an audible <strong>and</strong> giv<strong>in</strong>g you this beautiful waltz from alt-country s<strong>in</strong>gersongwriter<br />

Jason Isbell. He’ll w<strong>in</strong> your heart with simplicity <strong>and</strong> swagger.<br />

About Sharon Penny: I’m like Jim<strong>in</strong>y Cricket help<strong>in</strong>g P<strong>in</strong>occhio become a real<br />

boy, except my job is to keep you on the straight-<strong>and</strong>-narrow to becom<strong>in</strong>g<br />

a real bride. Psst! Here’s a book that’ll help you write a thank-you note. Psst!<br />

Have you seen the gorgeous dresses on this blog? Psst! Have you heard any<br />

of these new songs? Why not play one at your wedd<strong>in</strong>g? With my help you’ll<br />

be a real bride <strong>in</strong> no time!<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 39


the gift guide<br />

FOR THE BRIDE<br />

BY EMILY PETER AND ALESANDRA VELEZ<br />

Dune Jewelry Golf B<strong>all</strong> Bangle<br />

(with s<strong>and</strong> or grass from Alister<br />

Mackenzie Golf Course), $39.99<br />

at Hagg<strong>in</strong> Oaks Golf Complex,<br />

3645 Fulton Avenue, <strong>Sacramento</strong>.<br />

916-481-4653, hagg<strong>in</strong>oaks.com.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Goddess Gift Set, $45 at<br />

Tea Xotics, 4356 Town Center<br />

Boulevard, Suite 112, El Dorado Hills.<br />

916-461-3548, teaxotics.com.<br />

"I Do" Slippers, $28<br />

at Macy’s, macys.com.<br />

Lulu Townsend Wristlet,<br />

$34.99 at DSW, dsw.com.<br />

Helwig Rosé<br />

Sparkl<strong>in</strong>g W<strong>in</strong>e,<br />

$20 at<br />

Helwig W<strong>in</strong>ery<br />

11555 Shen<strong>and</strong>oah<br />

Road, Plymouth.<br />

209-245-5200,<br />

helwigw<strong>in</strong>ery.com.<br />

Stackable Diamond Eternity B<strong>and</strong>s <strong>in</strong> 14<br />

karat yellow gold <strong>and</strong> white gold, prices<br />

start at $900 at Adrian Blanco Jewelry,<br />

49 Natoma Street, Suite H, Folsom.<br />

916-260-5136, adrianblancojewelry.com.<br />

Customized Bean Bag<br />

Chair, starts at $72.98 at<br />

Pr<strong>in</strong>tful, pr<strong>in</strong>tful.com.<br />

Maxi Dress, $239 at Button Up<br />

Boutique, 1182 Roseville Parkway,<br />

Suite 170, Roseville. 916-742-4997,<br />

buttonupboutique.net.<br />

Pencil Bag, $35.83 at<br />

Huston Textile Company<br />

(made loc<strong>all</strong>y <strong>in</strong> Mather),<br />

hustontextile.com.<br />

W<strong>in</strong>g Earr<strong>in</strong>gs, $66.99<br />

at Luxurious Bridal<br />

(made loc<strong>all</strong>y <strong>in</strong> Manteca),<br />

luxuriousbridal.com.<br />

Retreat To Wholeness (one day of nurtur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> reflect<strong>in</strong>g for the<br />

bride), $499 at Serenity Spa | Soul Yoga, 3984 Douglas Boulevard,<br />

Suite 150, Roseville, 916-797-8550; 350 P<strong>all</strong>adio Parkway, Suite 1975,<br />

Folsom, 916-542-7363, serenityspaonl<strong>in</strong>e.com.<br />

Monogrammed Soap (set of six), $49 at Pottery Barn,<br />

1151 G<strong>all</strong>eria Boulevard, Suite 1130, Roseville.<br />

916-788-1440, potterybarn.com.<br />

40 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


the gift guide<br />

FOR THE BRIDESMAIDS<br />

BY EMILY PETER AND ALESANDRA VELEZ<br />

Chic & Elegant<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Dresses<br />

Recycled Cashmere<br />

Circle Scarf, $70 at<br />

Jack & Mary Designs,<br />

jack<strong>and</strong>marydesigns.com.<br />

7433 Greenback Ln #J<br />

Citrus Heights, CA 95610<br />

(916) 521-9856<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@diamondbridalg<strong>all</strong>ery.com<br />

www.DiamondBridalG<strong>all</strong>ery.com<br />

Signature Manicure, $54 at <strong>The</strong> Spa at<br />

Arden Hills, 1220 Arden Hills Lane,<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong>. 916-480-1150, ardenhills.club.<br />

Cactus Shot Glasses, $21 at<br />

Ambience Floral Design & Gifts,<br />

1249 Pleasant Grove Boulevard,<br />

Suite 100, Roseville. 916-786-6581,<br />

ambiencefloral.com.<br />

Spongellé Mani-Pedi Buffer, $15 at Massage Envy,<br />

4510 Post Street, Suite 340, El Dorado Hills.<br />

916-941-6850, locations.massageenvy.com/california/<br />

el-dorado-hills/4510-post-street-ste-340.html.<br />

Wavertree & London Soap, $7.50<br />

at Body Basics, 364 Ma<strong>in</strong> Street,<br />

Placerville. 530-622-2988,<br />

shopbodybasics.wordpress.com.<br />

Kate Spade Bridesmaid<br />

Bangle, $58 at Macy’s,<br />

macys.com.<br />

“Babe” Swimsuit,<br />

$55 at Swoonable<br />

(made loc<strong>all</strong>y <strong>in</strong> Folsom),<br />

swoonable.net.<br />

Rombauer<br />

Chardonnay,<br />

$41.99 at BevMo,<br />

bevmo.com.<br />

42 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


Website ( DarciTerryPhotography.com)<br />

Email-??? not always <strong>in</strong>cluded ( DarciTerry@gmail.com )<br />

Social media icons or full facebook address? ( Facebook:<br />

Darci Terry Photography<br />

the<br />

Instagram:<br />

gift<br />

DarciTerryPhoto<br />

guide<br />

)<br />

FOR THE BRIDESMAIDS<br />

BY EMILY PETER AND ALESANDRA VELEZ<br />

Branch Bobby P<strong>in</strong>s,<br />

$26.50 at<br />

Woodl<strong>and</strong> Belle,<br />

woodl<strong>and</strong>belle.com.<br />

Kelly & Katie Bucket Bag,<br />

$39.99 at DSW, dsw.com.<br />

H<strong>and</strong>-Poured C<strong>and</strong>le, $20 at<br />

Farm to Flame C<strong>and</strong>leworks<br />

(made loc<strong>all</strong>y <strong>in</strong> El Dorado Hills),<br />

farmtoflamec<strong>and</strong>leworks.com.<br />

Contact us: (707) 469-3736<br />

DarciTerryPhotography.com DarciTerry@gmail.com<br />

DarciTerryPhoto Darci Terry Photography<br />

Isl<strong>and</strong> Bamboo Wooden Spoon<br />

Set, $43.80 at <strong>The</strong> Biggest Little<br />

Kitchen Store, 165 Ma<strong>in</strong> Street,<br />

Jackson. 209-223-0264,<br />

biggestlittlekitchenstore.com.<br />

"Cheers to Friendship" Zipper<br />

Pouch, $28 at Olive <strong>and</strong><br />

Poppy (made loc<strong>all</strong>y <strong>in</strong> Napa),<br />

etsy.com/shop/WearYourW<strong>in</strong>e.<br />

"Bottoms Up" Socks, $14 at Bayabelle Boutique,<br />

100 Gateway Drive, Suite 110, L<strong>in</strong>coln.<br />

916-253-9260, bayabelle.com.<br />

for the flower girl:<br />

LooLooLove M<strong>in</strong>i Purse, $19, <strong>and</strong><br />

H<strong>and</strong>made Swarovski Crystal Hair<br />

Accessories, starts at $3 at Bubble Belly,<br />

340 G Street, Suite C, Davis.<br />

530-231-5538, shopbubblebelly.com.<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 43


the gift guide<br />

FOR THE GROOM<br />

BY EMILY PETER AND ALESANDRA VELEZ<br />

Personalized Star Map, $49.95 at<br />

My Sky Moment, myskymoment.com.<br />

A Luxury You Can Afford<br />

DONNA BECK PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Kenneth Cole Leather<br />

Weekender Bag, $99.99<br />

at DSW, dsw.com.<br />

SANDY STRINGER<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Planner<br />

916-397-9346<br />

s<strong>and</strong>y@str<strong>in</strong>gs-champagne.com<br />

www.str<strong>in</strong>gs-champagne.com<br />

Classic Face Shave, $40 at Hammer & Nails<br />

Groom<strong>in</strong>g Shop for Guys, 195 Placerville<br />

Road, Suite 110, Folsom. 916-984-1111,<br />

hammer<strong>and</strong>nailsgroom<strong>in</strong>g.com.<br />

Electra Townie Go! Bike, $2,599 at Folsom Bike,<br />

4420 Town Center Boulevard, Suite 150, El Dorado Hills,<br />

916-941-0900; 7610 Folsom-Auburn Road, Suite 100,<br />

Folsom, 916-844-1000, folsombike.com.<br />

Boutique <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong><br />

&<br />

Engagement Photography<br />

Enamel Mug, $12 at<br />

Panic & Swoon General Store,<br />

430 Ma<strong>in</strong> Street, Placerville.<br />

530-303-8175, panic<strong>and</strong>swoon.co.<br />

ericabaldw<strong>in</strong>photography.com<br />

Fermob Moon Table Lamp,<br />

$213 at <strong>The</strong> Plant Foundry,<br />

3500 Broadway, <strong>Sacramento</strong>.<br />

916-917-5787,<br />

plantfoundry.com.<br />

Alkal<strong>in</strong>e Trio Malibu Acoustic Guitar,<br />

$299.99 at <strong>The</strong> Nicholson Music Co.,<br />

636 East Bidwell Street, Folsom.<br />

916-983-0763, nicholsonmusic.com.<br />

44 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


the gift guide<br />

FOR THE GROOM<br />

BY EMILY PETER AND ALESANDRA VELEZ<br />

Crosley Gig Shelf System, $179.95 at<br />

Pottery Barn, 1151 G<strong>all</strong>eria Boulevard,<br />

Suite 1130, Roseville. 916-788-1440,<br />

potterybarn.com.<br />

CAS 1854 Vodka (make loc<strong>all</strong>y <strong>in</strong> Rancho Cordova),<br />

$26.99 at Missouri Flat Market, 4615 Missouri<br />

Flat Road, Suite 2, Placerville. 530-626-6800,<br />

facebook.com/MissouriFlatMarket.<br />

Taco Passport, $12 at<br />

Eco Chic, 1661 East Monte<br />

Vista Avenue, Suite Q102,<br />

Vacaville. 707-624-6168,<br />

ecochiclife.net.<br />

Pendleton Shirt, starts at $135<br />

at <strong>The</strong> Clothes M<strong>in</strong>e, 60 Ma<strong>in</strong><br />

Street, Suite 2, Sutter Creek.<br />

209-267-0417, theclothesm<strong>in</strong>e.com.<br />

Bicycle Travel Journal<br />

With Illustrations by<br />

Nigel Peake, $14.95<br />

at Sp<strong>in</strong>, 417 Roseville<br />

Squ<strong>are</strong>, Roseville.<br />

916-784-7746,<br />

facebook.com/sp<strong>in</strong>gifts.<br />

Ariat Uptown Ultra Western Boot,<br />

$199.95 at Lees’ Boutique, 4110 Datsun<br />

Court, Sh<strong>in</strong>gle Spr<strong>in</strong>gs.<br />

530-677-4891, leesboutique.net.<br />

Citizen Promaster<br />

Tsuno Chronograph<br />

Racer Watch, $895 at<br />

Adrian Blanco Jewelry,<br />

49 Natoma Street, Suite H,<br />

Folsom. 916-260-5136,<br />

adrianblancojewelry.com.<br />

“A Man & His Watch”<br />

by Matt Hranek, $35 at<br />

Barnes & Noble,<br />

1256 G<strong>all</strong>eria Boulevard,<br />

Roseville. 916-788-4320,<br />

barnes<strong>and</strong>noble.com.<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 45


the gift guide<br />

MAKE YOUR BEST<br />

MOMENTS STAND STILL<br />

FOR THE GROOMSMEN<br />

BY EMILY PETER AND ALESANDRA VELEZ<br />

Custom Cuffl<strong>in</strong>ks, starts at $15, <strong>and</strong> Custom<br />

Tie Clip, starts at $15 at Style Avenue Studios<br />

(made loc<strong>all</strong>y <strong>in</strong> Elk Grove). 916-812-1114,<br />

styleavenuestudios.com.<br />

Andy Wolf White Sun Aviator-Frame Sunglasses,<br />

$363 at EyeChicks Eyewear, 3755 Taylor Road,<br />

Loomis. 916-489-1110, eyechicks.com.<br />

916-393-6551<br />

LOLITAVASQUEZPHOTOGRAPHY.COM<br />

Campfire Poker Set,<br />

$30 at Ambience<br />

Floral Design & Gifts,<br />

1249 Pleasant Grove<br />

Boulevard, Suite 100,<br />

Roseville. 916-786-6581,<br />

ambiencefloral.com.<br />

Fossil Explorist<br />

Smart Watch,<br />

$275 at Macy’s,<br />

macys.com.<br />

Martell Cordon Bleu<br />

Cognac, $268.99 at<br />

BevMo, bevmo.com.<br />

Sprigs Armb<strong>and</strong>, $24 at Gold Country<br />

Run+Sport, 4370 Town Center Boulevard,<br />

Suite 150, El Dorado Hills. 916-303-4786,<br />

goldcountryrun<strong>and</strong>sport.com.<br />

Duke Cannon Soaps, $11.25 each at F<strong>in</strong>ish<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Touches Boutique, 30 Ma<strong>in</strong> Street, Sutter Creek.<br />

916-798-5648, f<strong>in</strong>ish<strong>in</strong>gtouchesboutiques.com.<br />

46 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


the gift guide<br />

FOR THE GROOMSMEN<br />

BY EMILY PETER AND ALESANDRA VELEZ<br />

High-H<strong>and</strong> Olive Oil Company Artichoke & Garlic<br />

Flavored Extra Virg<strong>in</strong> Olive Oil, $16 at High-H<strong>and</strong><br />

Nursery & Cafe, 3750 Taylor Road, Loomis. 916-652-<br />

2065, highh<strong>and</strong>nursery.com.<br />

Soda Syrups Variety Pack, $33.95<br />

at Burly Beverages, 2014 Del Paso<br />

Boulevard, <strong>Sacramento</strong>. 916-333-3879,<br />

burlybeverages.com.<br />

Beef Jerky, $7.99<br />

at Midtown Jerky Co.<br />

(made loc<strong>all</strong>y <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong>),<br />

midtownjerky.com.<br />

Weekend Stay <strong>in</strong> M<strong>in</strong>er’s Cab<strong>in</strong>, $175/night<br />

with two-night m<strong>in</strong>imum at Coloma Resort,<br />

6921 Mt. Murphy Road, Coloma.<br />

800-238-2298, colom<strong>are</strong>sort.com.<br />

for the r<strong>in</strong>g be<strong>are</strong>r:<br />

<strong>The</strong> Durable Duffle, $59.99 at<br />

Groomsday, groomsday.com.<br />

Topgolf Bay Rental, starts at $26 per hour,<br />

at Topgolf, 1700 Freedom Way, Roseville.<br />

916-200-1002, topgolf.com/us/roseville.<br />

KEF Motion<br />

One Bluetooth<br />

Headphones, $249.99<br />

at Kef, kefdirect.com.<br />

>ONLINE<br />

EXCLUSIVE!<br />

Tune <strong>in</strong> to<br />

our blog at<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

for even more<br />

gift ideas!<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 47


Historic elegance ... <strong>in</strong> modern luxury.<br />

828 I Street, <strong>Sacramento</strong> · (916) 264-2800 · galevents@saclibrary.org · www.libraryg<strong>all</strong>eria.com


ON AMANDA:<br />

GOWN BY BELLEZZA E LUSSO FROM DIAMOND BRIDAL GALLERY;<br />

COORDINATOR’S OWN HAT;<br />

JEWELRY FROM MACY’S<br />

style<br />

IN THE<br />

clouds<br />

A DÉCOR INSPIRATION STORY<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHRYN WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

DESIGN, STYLING AND COORDINATION BY OMNI WEDDING & EVENT PLANNING<br />

STYLING AND FLORAL DESIGN BY WILD FLOWERS DESIGN GROUP<br />

CAKE DESIGN BY FRANK VILT’S CAKES<br />

RENTALS BY CELEBRATIONS! PARTY RENTALS & TENTS<br />

CUSTOM DÉCOR BY SWOONABLE<br />

PAPERIE BY SAYERS & CO.<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA<br />

MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

ON LOCATION AT HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN RESORT<br />

VIDEOGRAPHY BY JB WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

STARRING NEWLYWED BRIDE AMANDA FAZAKERLY<br />

PRODUCED BY REAL WEDDINGS MAGAZINE TEAM: EMILY PETER AND WENDY SIPPLE<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 49


style<br />

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style<br />

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REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 53


style<br />

VENUE<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER<br />

DESIGN, STYLING AND COORDINATION<br />

MAKEUP ARTIST<br />

STYLING AND FLORAL DESIGN<br />

HAIR ARTIST<br />

GOWNS<br />

CAKE DESIGN<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

// Heavenly Mounta<strong>in</strong> Resort | 775-586-4442 | skiheavenly.com<br />

// Kathryn White Photography | 707-849-6776 | kathrynwhitephotography.com<br />

// Omni <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> & Event Plann<strong>in</strong>g | 805-368-9002 | omniwedd<strong>in</strong>g<strong>and</strong>events.com<br />

// Wild Flowers Design Group | 916-899-1289 | wildflowersdesigngroup.com<br />

// Frank Vilt’s Cakes | 530-409-7046 | frankviltscakes.com<br />

// Halo Salon & Day Spa | Alexis Reynolds | 916-782-8842 | halosalondayspa.com<br />

// Happily Beautiful Makeup Artistry & Sk<strong>in</strong> Studio | Happi Ybarra | 530-632-0607 | happilybeautifulmakeup.com<br />

// Always Elegant Bridal & Tuxedo | 530-755-4282 | 530-487-7110 | alwayselegantbridal.net<br />

De La Rosa’s Bridal & Tuxedos | 916-983-3400 | delarosasbridal.com // Diamond Bridal G<strong>all</strong>ery | 916-521-9856 | diamondbridalg<strong>all</strong>ery.com<br />

RENTALS<br />

JEWELRY<br />

// Macy’s | Moka Davis, My Stylist@Macy’s Roseville G<strong>all</strong>eria | 916-787-3310 | macys.com/mystylist<br />

JEWELRY<br />

PAPERIE<br />

// Style Avenue Studios | 916-812-1114 | styleavenuestudios.com<br />

// Sayers & Co. | 916-682-8226 | sayers<strong>and</strong>co.com<br />

CUSTOM DECOR<br />

// Swoonable | swoonable.net<br />

// Celebrations! Party Rentals & Tents | 916-773-2133 | 916-562-2900 | 775-773-8900 | celebrationspartyrentals.com<br />

VIDEOGRAPHER // JB <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Photography | 916-220-0159 | jbwedd<strong>in</strong>gphoto.com<br />

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR REAL BRIDE MODEL AMANDA AND ALL OF THE PROFESSIONALS WHO CONTRIBUTED TO THIS FEATURE!<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

to see more photos<br />

from our<br />

“In the Clouds”<br />

photo shoot.<br />

54 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


ella piazza<br />

VINEYARD PHOTO COURTESY OF<br />

CHARLETON CHURCHILL PHOTOGRAPHY / CHARLETONCHURCHILL.COM<br />

COUPLE COURTESHY OF<br />

ASHLEY TEASLEY POHTOGRAPHY / ASHLEYTEASLEYPHOTOGRAPHY.COM<br />

Tuscan Ambiance with a Romantic V<strong>in</strong>eyard Sett<strong>in</strong>g<br />

WEDDING CEREMONY & RECEPTION DESTINATION<br />

19900 SHENANDOAH SCHOOL RD., PLYMOUTH • 209.245.3800<br />

BELLAPIAZZAWINERY.COM EVENTS@BELLAPIAZZAWINERY.COM<br />

Custom <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Packages Available • Schedule a Tour Today!


style: get to know our real bride model<br />

ON AMANDA:<br />

GOWN FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO;<br />

IN THE<br />

JEWELRY FROM MACY’S<br />

clouds<br />

Photo © Amy G Photography<br />

A DÉCOR INSPIRATION STORY<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHRYN WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

ON LOCATION AT HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN RESORT<br />

STARRING NEWLYWED BRIDE AMANDA FAZAKERLY<br />

EVENTS BY WISE<br />

Your dream, your vision...Our Mission!<br />

530-848-3843 | www.eventsbywise.com<br />

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO MODEL<br />

FOR THIS PHOTO SHOOT?<br />

Am<strong>and</strong>a: I knew it’d be a fun creative experience,<br />

a chance to be pampered, <strong>and</strong> a unique way to<br />

commemorate the whole wedd<strong>in</strong>g experience!<br />

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF MODELING?<br />

Am<strong>and</strong>a: Wear<strong>in</strong>g a variety of dress styles I never<br />

would have picked for myself! It was especi<strong>all</strong>y fun to<br />

see how the <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> team assembled a cohesive<br />

look—from dress to hair to set style.<br />

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THIS SHOOT?<br />

DID YOU RELATE TO THE CONCEPT?<br />

Am<strong>and</strong>a: <strong>The</strong> florals. <strong>The</strong> big, bright bouquets re<strong>all</strong>y<br />

tied the whole th<strong>in</strong>g together. <strong>The</strong> shoot concept was<br />

unexpected <strong>in</strong> the best way—a great juxtaposition of<br />

old <strong>and</strong> new, rural <strong>and</strong> urban.<br />

IF YOU COULD OFFER ANY ADVICE TO ENGAGED<br />

COUPLES, WHAT WOULD IT BE?<br />

Am<strong>and</strong>a: Savor the process <strong>and</strong> enjoy the details, but<br />

focus on the big picture—you’re marry<strong>in</strong>g the love of<br />

your life! OO<br />

—Interviewed by Emily Peter<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

to learn more about<br />

Am<strong>and</strong>a, <strong>and</strong> to see<br />

more photos from<br />

our “In the Clouds”<br />

photo shoot.<br />

56 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


portables<br />

YES...PORTABLES!<br />

Wilk<strong>in</strong>son Portables has been provid<strong>in</strong>g<br />

portable facilities for over 58 years.<br />

Plann<strong>in</strong>g events <strong>and</strong> wedd<strong>in</strong>gs at remote locations, backyards,<br />

ranches <strong>and</strong> barns can be ch<strong>all</strong>eng<strong>in</strong>g so let our team of<br />

qualified professionals assist you <strong>in</strong> provid<strong>in</strong>g your guests<br />

comfortable <strong>and</strong> clean facilities for their necessities.<br />

Once you’ve checked off <strong>all</strong> your wedd<strong>in</strong>g plann<strong>in</strong>g details<br />

remember to <strong>in</strong>clude Wilk<strong>in</strong>son portables to your list.<br />

You <strong>and</strong> your guests<br />

will appreciate it!<br />

3005 VENTURE ROAD | PLACERVILLE | 530-622-6169<br />

WILKINSONPORTABLES.COM | KYM@WILKINSONPORTABLES.COM<br />

FACEBOOK.COM/WILKINSONPORTABLETOILTES<br />

Serv<strong>in</strong>g the Greater <strong>Sacramento</strong> <strong>are</strong>a s<strong>in</strong>ce 1958


Amphitheatre on the green Elegant B<strong>all</strong>room SHadow Entrance<br />

meridianS reSTauranT & Bar<br />

965 orChard CreeK ln.<br />

916-625-4040<br />

www.meridianSreSTauranT.Com<br />

happy ever afTer Beg<strong>in</strong>S <strong>here</strong><br />

965 orChard CreeK ln.<br />

916-625-4043<br />

www.orChardCreeKlodge.Com<br />

<strong>The</strong> Spa aT Kilaga Spr<strong>in</strong>gS<br />

1187 Sun CiTy Blvd.<br />

916-408-4290<br />

www.KilagaSpr<strong>in</strong>gSSpa.Com<br />

Photos provided by: Chuck Roberts Photography (Amphitheatre) <strong>and</strong> Eye<br />

Connoisseur Photography (Shadow Entrance & B<strong>all</strong>room)


ON KADRA:<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX;<br />

JEWELRY FROM ANAÏS EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN;<br />

SHOES FROM DSW<br />

style<br />

ON AARON:<br />

JACKET AND TIE FROM MACY’S;<br />

SHIRT, TUXEDO PANTS AND SHOES<br />

FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO<br />

cultural<br />

FUSION<br />

A DÉCOR INSPIRATION STORY<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY VICENS FORNS FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

DESIGN, STYLING, COORDINATION, PAPERIE, SELECT FLORAL DESIGN, SELECT RENTALS AND SELECT JEWELRY BY ANAÏS EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN<br />

STYLING AND SELECT FLORAL DESIGN BY BLOEM DECOR<br />

CAKE DESIGN BY ABOVE & BEYOND CAKES<br />

STYLED CUISINE BY BELLA BRU CAFÉ & CATERING<br />

SELECT RENTALS BY CELEBRATIONS! PARTY RENTALS & TENTS<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST<br />

MAKEUP BY THE MAKEOVER MOMMY<br />

ON LOCATION AT THE WILLOW BALLROOM AND EVENT CENTER<br />

VIDEOGRAPHY BY JB WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

STARRING BRIDE- AND GROOM-TO-BE KADRA RADEMACHER & AARON VACCARO<br />

PRODUCED BY REAL WEDDINGS MAGAZINE TEAM: EMILY PETER AND WENDY SIPPLE<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 59


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style<br />

ON KADRA:<br />

GOWN FROM<br />

MY MARTHA DESIGN BOUTIQUE;<br />

JEWELRY FROM MACY’S<br />

ON AARON:<br />

TUXEDO FROM<br />

ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO<br />

TIE FROM MACY’S<br />

SPECIAL GUEST STAR DOG:<br />

GIGI WHALEY<br />

VENUE<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

// <strong>The</strong> Willow B<strong>all</strong>room <strong>and</strong> Event Center | 916-548-3511 | thewillowb<strong>all</strong>room.com<br />

// Vicens Forns F<strong>in</strong>e Art Photography | 707-637-7803 | vicensforns.com<br />

DESIGN, STYLING, COORDINATION, PAPERIE, LOUNGE FLORAL DESIGN, SELECT RENTALS AND SELECT JEWELRY<br />

Anaïs Event Plann<strong>in</strong>g & Design | 415-275-4776 | 415-894-9254 | anaisevents.com<br />

STYLING, BOUQUETS, BOUTONNIERE AND TABLETOP FLORAL DESIGN<br />

CAKE DESIGN<br />

STYLED CUISINE<br />

// Bloem Decor | 916-447-2001 | bloemdecor.com<br />

// Above & Beyond Cakes | 916-672-2259 | above<strong>and</strong>beyondcakes.com<br />

// Bella Bru Café & Cater<strong>in</strong>g | 916-704-9749 | 916-212-7571 | bellabrucafe.com<br />

HAIR ARTIST // Lisa Harter Hair <strong>and</strong> Makeup Artist | Lisa Harter | 530-559-7292 | lisamharter.com<br />

MAKEUP ARTIST<br />

// <strong>The</strong> Makeover Mommy | Porsche Ray | 928-442-6596 | themakeovermommy.com<br />

GOWNS<br />

My Martha Design Boutique | 530-622-6009 | mymarthadesign.com<br />

AARON’S TUXEDO<br />

JEWELRY, TIES AND AARON’S VELVET JACKET<br />

FELICITY DINING CHAIRS AND FARM TABLE<br />

// <strong>The</strong> Bridal Box | 916-742-4638 | thebridalbox.net<br />

SHOES<br />

// Second <strong>Summer</strong> Bride | 916-330-4422 | secondsummerbridesacramento.com<br />

// DSW | dsw.com<br />

// Always Elegant Bridal & Tuxedos | 530-755-4282 | 530-487-7110 | alwayselegantbridal.net<br />

// Macy’s | Moka Davis, My Stylist@Macy’s Roseville G<strong>all</strong>eria | 916-787-3310 | macys.com/mystylist<br />

JEWELRY // Deepa Gurnani | deepagurnani.com // Style Avenue Studios | 916-812-1114 | styleavenuestudios.com<br />

// Celebrations! Party Rentals & Tents | 916-773-2133 | 916-562-2900 | 775-773-8900 | celebrationspartyrentals.com<br />

VIDEOGRAPHER // JB <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Photography | 916-220-0159 | jbwedd<strong>in</strong>gphoto.com<br />

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR REAL COUPLE MODELS KADRA & AARON AND ALL OF THE PROFESSIONALS WHO CONTRIBUTED TO THIS FEATURE!<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

to see more photos from<br />

our “Cultural Fusion”<br />

photo shoot.<br />

64 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


R<strong>and</strong>y Peters Cater<strong>in</strong>g & Event Center<br />

Specializes <strong>in</strong> creat<strong>in</strong>g unforgettable<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>gs. Voted <strong>Best</strong> Caterer by <strong>Sacramento</strong><br />

A List for the last 3 years <strong>in</strong> a row.<br />

105 Vernon Street, Roseville, CA 95678<br />

916. 726. 2339 // R<strong>and</strong>yPetersCater<strong>in</strong>g.com<br />

Reserve now<br />

for 2021<br />

“Sweep<strong>in</strong>g 360 Degree Views...<br />

Custom W<strong>in</strong>e Cave...<br />

Award W<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g W<strong>in</strong>es.”<br />

WINERY<br />

TM<br />

209.245.5200 HELWIGWINERY.COM<br />

11555 Shen<strong>and</strong>oah Rd Plymouth, CA 95669


style: get to know our real couple models<br />

ON AARON:<br />

TUXEDO FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO<br />

cultural<br />

FUSION<br />

A DÉCOR INSPIRATION STORY<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY VICENS FORNS FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

ON LOCATION AT THE WILLOW BALLROOM AND EVENT CENTER<br />

STARRING BRIDE- AND GROOM-TO-BE<br />

KADRA RADEMACHER & AARON VACCARO<br />

ON KADRA:<br />

PANTSUIT FROM<br />

SECOND SUMMER BRIDE;<br />

EARRINGS BY DEEPA GURNANI;<br />

SHOES FROM DSW<br />

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO MODEL<br />

FOR THIS PHOTO SHOOT?<br />

Kadra: This was someth<strong>in</strong>g so different from<br />

anyth<strong>in</strong>g else we have done before. It was a fun,<br />

new experience to do together <strong>and</strong> seemed like<br />

a once-<strong>in</strong>-a-lifetime opportunity.<br />

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THIS<br />

SHOOT? DID YOU RELATE TO THE CONCEPT?<br />

Kadra: Wear<strong>in</strong>g the white pantsuit (with a<br />

cape!) even though it was very w<strong>in</strong>dy <strong>and</strong> cold<br />

outside. It was awesome because I have been<br />

teas<strong>in</strong>g Aaron for months that I was go<strong>in</strong>g to<br />

wear a pantsuit to our wedd<strong>in</strong>g, but when I put<br />

it on he actu<strong>all</strong>y loved it!<br />

TELL US ABOUT YOUR MODELING<br />

EXPERIENCE. WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE<br />

PART OF THE DAY? HOW DID YOU FEEL<br />

AFTERWARD?<br />

Kadra: It was re<strong>all</strong>y fun, <strong>and</strong> everyone<br />

was so nice. I loved hav<strong>in</strong>g my hair <strong>and</strong><br />

makeup done. It is also amaz<strong>in</strong>g to see<br />

how a photographer can create<br />

<strong>in</strong>credible shots with tot<strong>all</strong>y<br />

amateur models. He made us<br />

look so good.<br />

Aaron: After the shoot I<br />

was exhausted from <strong>all</strong><br />

the pos<strong>in</strong>g...it was like an ab workout.<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

to learn more about<br />

Kadra & Aaron, <strong>and</strong> to<br />

see more photos from<br />

our “Cultural Fusion”<br />

photo shoot.<br />

IF YOU COULD OFFER ANY ADVICE TO<br />

ENGAGED COUPLES, WHAT WOULD IT BE?<br />

Kadra: Don’t try someth<strong>in</strong>g so complicated<br />

that it ru<strong>in</strong>s the fun of plann<strong>in</strong>g. I decided to<br />

have each bridesmaid wear a different shade of<br />

blue <strong>and</strong> let them f<strong>in</strong>d their dress themselves.<br />

It turned out to be very difficult <strong>and</strong> frustrat<strong>in</strong>g<br />

to get the colors to look good <strong>and</strong> coord<strong>in</strong>ate<br />

everyth<strong>in</strong>g. OO<br />

—Interviewed by Emily Peter<br />

66 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


ALL PHOTOS CHARLETONCHURCHILL.COM<br />

Celebrate your special day <strong>in</strong> modern style<br />

500 J Street, <strong>Sacramento</strong>, CA 95814<br />

sales@sawyerhotel.com | 916-399-4730 | sawyerhotel.com


EAT<br />

DRINK<br />

no worry<br />

“ Who’s the<br />

Caterer?”<br />

www.bethsogaard.com<br />

1-866-441-beth “<strong>The</strong> No Worry Caterer” TM


ON MIKALA (LEFT):<br />

TUXEDO FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE;<br />

JEWELRY BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS;<br />

BOOTS FROM DSW<br />

style<br />

ON STEPHANIE (RIGHT):<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE;<br />

HAIR COMBS BY WOODLAND BELLE;<br />

EARRINGS BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS;<br />

SHOES FROM DSW<br />

ENDLESS<br />

love<br />

A DÉCOR INSPIRATION STORY<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SWEET MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

DESIGN, STYLING, AND COORDINATION BY EPIC THYME EVENTS<br />

STYLING AND FLORAL DESIGN BY STRELITZIA FLOWER COMPANY<br />

CAKE DESIGN BY JAYNEE CAKES CUSTOM CAKERY<br />

RENTALS BY TAHOE ELEVATED EVENTS<br />

LINENS BY CREATIVE COVERINGS<br />

CUSTOM DÉCOR AND SIGNAGE BY SWOONABLE<br />

PAPERIE BY LITTLE BIRD PAPER COMPANY<br />

HAND LETTERING BY INK FURIE<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON LOCATION AT WEST SHORE CAFÉ & INN<br />

VIDEOGRAPHY BY JB WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

STARRING BRIDES-TO-BE STEPHANIE MAYNARD & MIKALA PHILLIPS-HERNANDEZ<br />

PRODUCED BY REAL WEDDINGS MAGAZINE TEAM: EMILY PETER AND WENDY SIPPLE<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 69


style<br />

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style<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 71


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72 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


style<br />

ON MIKALA (LEFT):<br />

TUXEDO FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE;<br />

JEWELRY BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS;<br />

CLUTCH BY MARIELL;<br />

BOOTS FROM DSW<br />

ON STEPHANIE (RIGHT):<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE;<br />

HAIR COMBS BY WOODLAND BELLE;<br />

EARRINGS BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS;<br />

SHOES FROM DSW<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 73


style<br />

ON STEPHANIE (LEFT):<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE;<br />

JEWELRY FROM MACY'S<br />

ON MIKALA (RIGHT):<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE;<br />

JEWELRY FROM MACY'S<br />

ON MIKALA (LEFT):<br />

PANTSUIT FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE;<br />

JEWELRY BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS<br />

ON STEPHANIE (LEFT):<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE;<br />

FLORAL HEADBAND BY<br />

STRELITZIA FLOWER COMPANY;<br />

JEWELRY BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS<br />

VENUE<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER<br />

DESIGN, STYLING AND COORDINATION<br />

STYLING AND FLORAL DESIGN<br />

CAKE DESIGN<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

// West Shore Café & Inn | 530-525-5200 | westshorecafe.com<br />

// Sweet Marie Photography | 707-685-7694 | sweetmariephotography.com<br />

// Epic Thyme Events | 530-955-0093​ | epicthyme.com<br />

// Strelitzia Flower Company | 530-758-5050 | wedd<strong>in</strong>gsbystrelitzia.com<br />

// Jaynee Cakes Custom Cakery | 916-879-3137 | jayneecakes.com<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST // All Dolled Up Hair <strong>and</strong> Makeup Artistry | 530-206-7775 | <strong>all</strong>dolleduphair<strong>and</strong>makeup.com<br />

GOWNS AND ATTIRE<br />

JEWELRY AND ACCESSORIES<br />

// Second <strong>Summer</strong> Bride | 916-330-4422 | secondsummerbridesacramento.com<br />

SHOES // Ariat | ariat.com // DSW | dsw.com<br />

// Macy’s | Moka Davis, My Stylist@Macy's Roseville G<strong>all</strong>eria | 916-787-3310 | macys.com/mystylist<br />

Mariell | mariellonl<strong>in</strong>e.com // Style Avenue Studios | 916-812-1114 | styleavenuestudios.com // Woodl<strong>and</strong> Belle | woodl<strong>and</strong>belle.com<br />

PAPERIE<br />

// Little Bird Paper Company | 831-809-9403 | littlebirdpapercompany.com<br />

CALLIGRAPHY ON PLACE CARDS, TABLE NUMBER AND STEPPING STONES<br />

// Ink Furie | 916-717-5966 | <strong>in</strong>kfurie.com<br />

CUSTOM SIGNAGE AND "SNUGGLE" PILLOW // Swoonable | swoonable.net<br />

RENTALS<br />

LINENS<br />

// <strong>Tahoe</strong> Elevated Events | 775-783-9300 | tahoeelevatedevents.com<br />

// Creative Cover<strong>in</strong>gs | 775-359-6733 | creativecover<strong>in</strong>gs.com<br />

ROSÉ WINE // Soulmates W<strong>in</strong>es | 209-406-2898 | soulmatesw<strong>in</strong>es.com<br />

VIDEOGRAPHER // JB <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Photography | 916-220-0159 | jbwedd<strong>in</strong>gphoto.com<br />

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR REAL BRIDE MODELS STEPHANIE & MIKALA AND ALL OF THE PROFESSIONALS WHO CONTRIBUTED TO THIS FEATURE!<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

to see more<br />

photos from our<br />

“Endless Love”<br />

photo shoot.<br />

74 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


Plan a celebration to remember at<br />

the Hilton <strong>Sacramento</strong> Arden West hotel.<br />

916.604.3599<br />

2200 Harvard Street, <strong>Sacramento</strong><br />

www.Hilton<strong>Sacramento</strong>ArdenWest.com<br />

DJ/Music Coord<strong>in</strong>aaon<br />

Dance Floor Rentals<br />

Audio/Visual Equipment<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Director<br />

Green Screen/Photo booths<br />

Lighhng/special decor<br />

From “I Do”until the Last Dance, We make sure Your Day ows without a Hitch...<br />

But the Honeymoon is All You!<br />

Go to www.AAMusicEvents.com to book your event today!<br />

916-451-6700 averya@aamusicevents.com<br />

Budget Friendly. Military Discounts.


style: get to know our real bride models<br />

ENDLESS<br />

love<br />

A DÉCOR INSPIRATION STORY<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SWEET MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

ON LOCATION AT WEST SHORE CAFÉ & INN<br />

STARRING BRIDES-TO-BE<br />

STEPHANIE MAYNARD<br />

& MIKALA PHILLIPS-HERNANDEZ<br />

ON STEPHANIE (LEFT):<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE;<br />

FLORAL HEADBAND BY<br />

STRELITZIA FLOWER COMPANY;<br />

EARRINGS FROM MACY'S;<br />

NECKLACE BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS;<br />

BOOTS BY ARIAT<br />

ON MIKALA (RIGHT):<br />

PANTSUIT FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE;<br />

JEWELRY BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS;<br />

FLORAL RING BY<br />

STRELITZIA FLOWER COMPANY;<br />

BOOTS BY ARIAT<br />

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO MODEL<br />

FOR THIS PHOTO SHOOT?<br />

Stephanie: We heard about it through Jennifer<br />

Resnicke, who is a writer for <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>,<br />

<strong>and</strong> thought it would be a re<strong>all</strong>y fun experience<br />

(we were right!). Both of us have done photo<br />

shoots before for cosplay <strong>and</strong> we re<strong>all</strong>y enjoy<br />

them, but this was someth<strong>in</strong>g very different<br />

than what we’re used to.<br />

Mikala: Honestly, I ma<strong>in</strong>ly did it because Steph<br />

was so excited the moment she heard about it.<br />

While our hobby may <strong>in</strong>clude photo shoots,<br />

t<strong>here</strong> is a dist<strong>in</strong>ct difference <strong>in</strong> shoot<strong>in</strong>g as<br />

a character <strong>and</strong> shoot<strong>in</strong>g as yourself. I am<br />

not usu<strong>all</strong>y the type to do th<strong>in</strong>gs like this<br />

as myself <strong>and</strong> was a bit nervous.<br />

I believe <strong>in</strong> captur<strong>in</strong>g moments.<br />

A photograph should feel like a visual poem or<br />

dream. Mix<strong>in</strong>g romance <strong>and</strong> warmth <strong>and</strong> sweet<br />

country <strong>in</strong>to every image. I Believe <strong>in</strong> captur<strong>in</strong>g<br />

love that runs as wild <strong>and</strong> free as the open fields<br />

themselves . How it feels <strong>in</strong> my own heart is how it<br />

should be captured through my lens, too.<br />

www.artisticphotographybytami.com<br />

530-409-8567<br />

@artisticphotographybytami<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

to learn more about<br />

Stephanie & Mikala, <strong>and</strong><br />

to see more photos<br />

from our “Endless<br />

Love” photo shoot.<br />

76 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM<br />

TELL US ABOUT YOUR MODELING<br />

EXPERIENCE. WHAT WAS YOUR<br />

FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY? HOW<br />

DID YOU FEEL AFTERWARD?<br />

Stephanie: My favorite part of the<br />

day was see<strong>in</strong>g each other <strong>in</strong> the<br />

different outfits. I know I got a<br />

little teary eyed at a couple po<strong>in</strong>ts<br />

from the realness of it <strong>all</strong>. See<strong>in</strong>g<br />

everyth<strong>in</strong>g laid out—the ceremony<br />

arch, the d<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g table, the flowers, the<br />

gowns, etc., almost felt like a preview<br />

of what is to come.<br />

Mikala: I did end up hav<strong>in</strong>g an<br />

absolute blast of a time, despite<br />

my <strong>in</strong>itial reservations. Especi<strong>all</strong>y<br />

because the team made sure to work<br />

with<strong>in</strong> our comfort zones. Plus wear<strong>in</strong>g<br />

a suit felt absolutely amaz<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

IF YOU COULD OFFER ANY ADVICE<br />

TO ENGAGED COUPLES, WHAT<br />

WOULD IT BE?<br />

Stephanie: <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> plann<strong>in</strong>g is<br />

stressful, because unless you <strong>are</strong> a<br />

professional event planner, this is far<br />

beyond what you’re used to. Make<br />

sure you communicate with each<br />

other about what you each want out<br />

of the day <strong>and</strong> your future together.<br />

Mikala: Communication is key. Don’t<br />

be afraid to talk to your partner<br />

about th<strong>in</strong>gs that <strong>are</strong> go<strong>in</strong>g on <strong>in</strong><br />

your life. OO<br />

—Interviewed by Emily Peter


KE TAHOE’S TOP 3 WEDDING VENUES<br />

Lake <strong>Tahoe</strong>, w<strong>here</strong> Mark Twa<strong>in</strong> once said the air is<br />

so pure it’s what angels breathe, consis tently makes<br />

every “must-see” list. So how fabulous is it that these<br />

three Resorts offer three dist<strong>in</strong>ct, premier moun ta<strong>in</strong><br />

venues <strong>here</strong>—each with its own unique style, charm<br />

<strong>and</strong> price po<strong>in</strong>t to suit any dest<strong>in</strong>a tion wedd<strong>in</strong>g!<br />

Northstar <strong>California</strong>. For high-end luxury with<br />

a laid-back ambiance, noth<strong>in</strong>g beats Northstar<br />

<strong>California</strong>! This elegant yet relaxed resort is actu<strong>all</strong>y<br />

a full-scale village perched on <strong>Tahoe</strong>’s north shore.<br />

An amaz<strong>in</strong>g array of stunn<strong>in</strong>g event spaces, an<br />

award-w<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g executive chef, upscale shops, hip<br />

restaurants, a theater, skat<strong>in</strong>g/ roller r<strong>in</strong>k—even a<br />

5-star Ritz-Carlton complete with <strong>in</strong>dulgent spa—<br />

offer everyth<strong>in</strong>g you could want for the wedd<strong>in</strong>g of<br />

your dreams.<br />

Kirkwood. Those who revel <strong>in</strong> the great outdoors<br />

will love Kirkwood. Off the beaten path, this rustic<br />

retreat lets you unplug, relax, <strong>and</strong> sh<strong>are</strong> the full<br />

“beauty of nature” experience with friends <strong>and</strong> family.<br />

Say “I do” <strong>in</strong> a meadow bloom<strong>in</strong>g with wildflowers<br />

<strong>and</strong> surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Sierras.<br />

Heavenly. <strong>The</strong> aptly named Heavenly jux taposes<br />

awe-<strong>in</strong>spir<strong>in</strong>g panora mas of <strong>Tahoe</strong>’s sapphire waters<br />

with the excitement of nearby cas<strong>in</strong>os <strong>and</strong> nightlife.<br />

Let your spirit soar as you ride the aerial tram to<br />

exchange vows aga<strong>in</strong>st a backdrop of the dazzl<strong>in</strong>g<br />

lake. Follow it up with a private mounta<strong>in</strong>top<br />

reception.<br />

<strong>Tahoe</strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>Collection.com


ON WENDY:<br />

GOWN FROM SPARKLE BRIDAL COUTURE;<br />

JEWELRY FROM MACY’S;<br />

BELT BY MARIELL<br />

style<br />

someth<strong>in</strong>g old<br />

SOMETHING NEW<br />

A DÉCOR INSPIRATION STORY<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BETHANY PETRIK PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

DESIGN, STYLING, AND COORDINATION BY TAN WEDDINGS & EVENTS WITH SPECIAL ASSISTANCE FROM LINDEN TAN<br />

FLORAL DESIGN BY HILLSIDE BLOOMS FLORISTRY<br />

CAKE DESIGN BY GO WEST BAKING AND EVENTS<br />

STYLED CUISINE BY CATERING BY DESIGN<br />

RENTALS BY EL DORADO HILLS PARTY RENTALS AND SIMPLE COUNTRY WEDDINGS<br />

SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DRAPING BY MAGICAL LIGHTING<br />

LINENS BY CREATIVE COVERINGS<br />

CUSTOM DÉCOR BY SWOONABLE<br />

PAPERIE BY LITTLE BIRD PAPER COMPANY<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY JENIFER HAUPT, I MAKE BEAUTIFUL<br />

ON LOCATION AT SILT WINE COMPANY<br />

VIDEOGRAPHY BY JB WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

STARRING NEWLYWED BRIDE WENDY BRIGHT<br />

PRODUCED BY REAL WEDDINGS MAGAZINE TEAM: KATE MCGOWAN, EMILY PETER AND WENDY SIPPLE<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 79


style<br />

ON WENDY:<br />

GOWN FROM SPARKLE BRIDAL COUTURE;<br />

JEWELRY BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS<br />

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REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 81


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ON WENDY:<br />

GOWN FROM SPARKLE BRIDAL COUTURE;<br />

JEWELRY FROM MACY’S;<br />

BELT BY MARIELL<br />

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REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 83


style<br />

ON WENDY:<br />

GOWN FROM SPARKLE BRIDAL COUTURE;<br />

HEADPIECE AND EARRINGS FROM LUXURIOUS BRIDAL;<br />

SHOES FROM DSW<br />

VENUE<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER<br />

DESIGN, STYLING AND COORDINATION<br />

FLORAL DESIGN<br />

CAKE AND MACARON DESIGN<br />

STYLED CUISINE<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

// Silt W<strong>in</strong>e Company | 916-744-1456 | siltw<strong>in</strong>eco.com<br />

// Bethany Petrik Photography | 530-665-0592 | bethanypetrik.com<br />

// Tan <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> & Events | 530-601-0914 | tanwedd<strong>in</strong>gs<strong>and</strong>events.com<br />

// Hillside Blooms Floristry | hillsidebloomsfloristry.com<br />

// Go West Bak<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> Events | 916-708-6264 | gowestbak<strong>in</strong>g<strong>and</strong>events.com<br />

// Cater<strong>in</strong>g by Design | 916-792-6485 | cater<strong>in</strong>gbydesignrockl<strong>in</strong>.com<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST // Jenifer Haupt, I Make Beautiful | 916-532-9800 | imakebeautiful.com<br />

GOWNS<br />

// <strong>The</strong> Clothes M<strong>in</strong>e | 209-267-0417 | theclothesm<strong>in</strong>e.com<br />

Sparkle Bridal Couture | 916-538-6615 | sparklebridalcouture.com<br />

SHOES<br />

// DSW | dsw.com<br />

JEWELRY AND ACCESSORIES // Hair Comes the Bride | www.haircomesthebride.com // Luxurious Bridal | 209-400-1915 | luxuriousbridal.com<br />

Macy’s | Moka Davis, My Stylist@Macy’s Roseville G<strong>all</strong>eria | 916-787-3310 | macys.com/mystylist // Mariell | mariellonl<strong>in</strong>e.com<br />

PAPERIE<br />

Style Avenue Studios | 916-812-1114 | styleavenuestudios.com<br />

// Little Bird Paper Company | 831-809-9403 | littlebirdpapercompany.com<br />

CUSTOM SIGNAGE AND PLACE CARDS // Swoonable | swoonable.net<br />

CEREMONY CHAIRS, LOBSTER TRAP TABLE, CANDLESTICKS, GLASS TERRARIUM AND VINTAGE WOOD BUCKET<br />

GLASSWARE, PLATES AND FLATWARE<br />

Simple Country <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> | 916-271-6345 | simplecountrywedd<strong>in</strong>gs.com<br />

LINENS<br />

UPLIGHTING, TABLE LIGHTING AND DRAPING<br />

// El Dorado Hills Party Rentals | 916-933-2500 | edhpartyrentals.com<br />

// Creative Cover<strong>in</strong>gs | 775-359-6733 | creativecover<strong>in</strong>gs.com<br />

// Magical Light<strong>in</strong>g | 530-377-6203 | magic<strong>all</strong>ight<strong>in</strong>g.biz<br />

VIDEOGRAPHER // JB <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Photography | 916-220-0159 | jbwedd<strong>in</strong>gphoto.com<br />

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR REAL BRIDE MODEL WENDY AND ALL OF THE PROFESSIONALS WHO CONTRIBUTED TO THIS FEATURE!<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

to see more photos<br />

from our “Someth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Old Someth<strong>in</strong>g New”<br />

photo shoot.<br />

84 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


August 11, <strong>2019</strong><br />

Crowne Plaza <strong>Sacramento</strong><br />

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style: get to know our real bride model<br />

ON WENDY:<br />

GOWN FROM SPARKLE BRIDAL COUTURE;<br />

HEADPIECE BY HAIR COMES THE BRIDE;<br />

JEWELRY BY MARIELL<br />

someth<strong>in</strong>g old<br />

SOMETHING NEW<br />

A DÉCOR INSPIRATION STORY<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BETHANY PETRIK PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

ON LOCATION AT SILT WINE COMPANY<br />

STARRING NEWLYWED BRIDE<br />

WENDY BRIGHT<br />

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO MODEL<br />

FOR THIS PHOTO SHOOT?<br />

Wendy: Not know<strong>in</strong>g what the email from <strong>Real</strong><br />

<strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> was about, I f<strong>in</strong><strong>all</strong>y opened it about<br />

five days before the deadl<strong>in</strong>e to enter the Cover<br />

Model Contest. I was so excited read<strong>in</strong>g about<br />

the contest <strong>and</strong> thought, ’How cool...Yes, I’m<br />

do<strong>in</strong>g this!’ Opportunities like this come once <strong>in</strong><br />

a lifetime, <strong>and</strong> I just wanted to go for it!<br />

TELL US ABOUT YOUR MODELING<br />

EXPERIENCE. WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE<br />

PART OF THE DAY? HOW DID YOU FEEL<br />

AFTERWARD?<br />

Wendy: What an <strong>in</strong>credible day! <strong>The</strong><br />

weather couldn’t have been more<br />

perfect <strong>and</strong> the venue was beautiful.<br />

It’s hard to pick one favorite part, but<br />

I absolutely loved wear<strong>in</strong>g the dresses<br />

<strong>and</strong> feel<strong>in</strong>g so glamorous. Of course,<br />

hair, makeup, shoes, <strong>and</strong> jewelry<br />

were also so much fun; who doesn’t<br />

love gett<strong>in</strong>g <strong>all</strong> dolled up?! Meet<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>all</strong> the amaz<strong>in</strong>g people that work<br />

so hard to make couples’ visions<br />

come to life on the most important<br />

day of their lives was awesome, <strong>and</strong><br />

at the end of the day I just felt so<br />

grateful <strong>and</strong> blessed to be chosen for<br />

someth<strong>in</strong>g so wonderful.<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com to<br />

learn more about Wendy,<br />

<strong>and</strong> to see more photos<br />

from our “Someth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Old Someth<strong>in</strong>g New”<br />

photo shoot.<br />

IF YOU COULD OFFER ANY ADVICE<br />

TO ENGAGED COUPLES, WHAT<br />

WOULD IT BE?<br />

Wendy: Just know that the wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

day goes by <strong>in</strong> a snap; it re<strong>all</strong>y<br />

does! Take your time to soak it <strong>all</strong><br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>and</strong> just breathe. If you <strong>and</strong> your<br />

beloved <strong>are</strong> okay with see<strong>in</strong>g each<br />

other before the ceremony, do a<br />

first look shot <strong>and</strong> then get the rest<br />

of the pictures done before the<br />

reception. This will give you more<br />

time to celebrate with loved ones.<br />

In the days follow<strong>in</strong>g I just kept<br />

say<strong>in</strong>g “I want a redo!” Sit down,<br />

relax <strong>and</strong> enjoy! OO<br />

—Interviewed by Emily Peter<br />

86 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


926 J Street | <strong>Sacramento</strong>, Ca 95814 | thecitizenhotel.com | 916 447 2700


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ON ERICKA (LEFT):<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX;<br />

EARRINGS FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOUQUET BY THE BLOOM LAB;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA;<br />

MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

style<br />

ON OLIVIA (RIGHT):<br />

GOWN FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO;<br />

HEADPIECE BY ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO;<br />

EARRINGS FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOUQUET BY AMES HAUS DESIGN<br />

WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN<br />

SET FURNITURE FROM SACRAMENTO EVENT CO.<br />

SET DÉCOR FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH<br />

WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

SET CAKE BY BATTER UP CAKERY<br />

garden<br />

SECRET<br />

STARRING OUR COVER MODEL FINALISTS<br />

ERICKA WANG AND OLIVIA FILBRANDT<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY 2 GIRLS 20 CAMERAS<br />

ON LOCATION AT THE KIMPTON SAWYER HOTEL<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY,<br />

HALO SALON & DAY SPA AND HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

SETS DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN<br />

SET FURNITURE FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS, SACRAMENTO EVENT CO. AND STANDARD PARTY RENTALS<br />

SET LINENS AND DRAPING BY CREATIVE COVERINGS<br />

SET DÉCOR FLOWERS FROM WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

DESIGNED BY AMES HAUS DESIGN<br />

SET CAKES BY BATTER UP CAKERY<br />

VIDEOGRAPHY BY 5 STAR WEDDING FILMS AND PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

PRODUCED BY REAL WEDDINGS MAGAZINE TEAM: SUSIE BAGGETT, SHIRLEY BURROWS, ISABELLA DE GARZA,<br />

TATIANA JITARI, NATHALIA KALLAN, EMILY PETER, AMANDA RINEHART, WENDY SIPPLE, LEAH SISTO AND ALESANDRA VELEZ<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 89


90 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


style<br />

ON ERICKA // OPPOSITE PAGE ON TOP:<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; EARRINGS BY DEEPA GURNANI; BRACELET BY MARIELL;<br />

BOUQUET BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

ON OLIVIA // OPPOSITE PAGE ON BOTTOM:<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; JEWELRY BY CHLOE + ISABEL;<br />

BOUQUET BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON ERICKA // THIS PAGE IN GROUP ON LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX; EARRINGS FROM MACY’S; BOUQUET BY THE BLOOM LAB;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

ON OLIVIA // THIS PAGE IN GROUP ON RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO;<br />

HEADPIECE BY ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; EARRINGS FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOUQUET BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN<br />

SET FURNITURE OPPOSITE PAGE ON LEFT FROM STANDARD PARTY RENTALS<br />

SET FURNITURE OPPOSITE PAGE ON RIGHT AND THIS PAGE FROM SACRAMENTO EVENT CO.;<br />

CANDLESTICKS FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

SET CAKE BY BATTER UP CAKERY<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 91


ON ERICKA // LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM DE LA ROSA’S BRIDAL & TUXEDOS; NECKLACE AND EARRINGS FROM MACY’S; BOUQUET BY CURIOUS FLORAL;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

ON ERICKA // MIDDLE:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; NECKLACE FROM MACY’S; EARRINGS BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS;<br />

BOUQUET BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

ON ERICKA // RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX; HEADPIECE BY ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; EARRINGS BY SORRELLI JEWELRY<br />

NECKLACE FROM MACY’S; BOUQUET BY BLOEM DECOR;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

SET DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN; SET FURNITURE FROM SACRAMENTO EVENT CO.<br />

92 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


ON OLIVIA // TOP:<br />

GOWN BY LUCE SPOSA FROM DIAMOND BRIDAL GALLERY; HEADPIECE AND EARRINGS BY TWIGS & HONEY;<br />

BOUQUET IN PHOTO ON LEFT BY WILD FLOWERS DESIGN GROUP;<br />

BOUQUET IN PHOTO ON RIGHT BY ACCENTS BY SAGE FLORAL DESIGN;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

SET DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN; SET FURNITURE FROM SACRAMENTO EVENT CO.<br />

ON OLIVIA // LEFT AND MIDDLE BOTTOM:<br />

GOWN FROM DE LA ROSA’S BRIDAL & TUXEDOS; EARRINGS BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS; BOUQUET BY AMOUR FLORIST & BRIDAL;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON OLIVIA // RIGHT AND MIDDLE TOP:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; EARRINGS BY SORRELLI JEWELRY; BOUQUET BY HILLSIDE BLOOMS FLORISTRY;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 93


ON OLIVIA // LEFT AND MIDDLE:<br />

GOWN FROM MY MARTHA DESIGN BOUTIQUE; HEADPIECE AND EARRINGS BY TWIGS & HONEY;<br />

BOUQUET BY CARSON VALLEY FLORIST;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON OLIVIA // RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM DE LA ROSA’S BRIDAL & TUXEDOS; EARRINGS FROM MACY’S; BOUQUET BY BLOEM DECOR;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

94 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


ON ERICKA:<br />

PANTSUIT FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; EARRINGS BY CHLOE + ISABEL;<br />

SHOES FROM DSW; BOUQUET BY MORNINGSIDE FLORIST;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA;<br />

MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 95


ON OLIVIA // LEFT AND MIDDLE TOP:<br />

GOWN FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; HEADPIECE BY ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; EARRINGS BY SORRELLI<br />

JEWELRY; BOUQUET BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY;<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN;<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

SET CAKES BY BATTER UP CAKERY<br />

ON OLIVIA // RIGHT AND MIDDLE BOTTOM:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; EARRINGS FROM MACY’S; BOUQUET BY VISUAL IMPACT DESIGN;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

96 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


ON ERICKA // LEFT AND MIDDLE BOTTOM:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; HEADPIECE BY LUXURIOUS BRIDAL; JEWELRY BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS;<br />

BOUQUET BY AMBIENCE FLORAL DESIGN & GIFTS;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

ON ERICKA // RIGHT AND MIDDLE TOP:<br />

GOWN BY VASYLKOV BRIDAL COUTURE FROM DIAMOND BRIDAL GALLERY;<br />

EARRINGS BY CHLOE + ISABEL; SHOES FROM DSW;<br />

BOUQUET BY PICTURE PERFECT PETALS;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 97


ON ERICKA // LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX; HEADPIECE FROM USABRIDE; EARRINGS FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOUQUET BY AMBIENCE FLORAL DESIGN & GIFTS;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO;<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN; SET FURNITURE AND DÉCOR FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS;<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

SET CAKE BY BATTER UP CAKERY<br />

ON ERICKA // RIGHT:<br />

GOWN BY VASYLKOV BRIDAL COUTURE FROM DIAMOND BRIDAL GALLERY; EARRINGS FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOUQUET BY HILLSIDE BLOOMS FLORISTRY;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO;<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN; SET FURNITURE AND ARCH FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS;<br />

SET DRAPING LINENS FROM CREATIVE COVERINGS;<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

98 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


ON OLIVIA // LEFT AND MIDDLE BOTTOM:<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX; HEADPIECE BY HAIR COMES THE BRIDE; EARRINGS BY LUXURIOUS BRIDAL;<br />

BOUQUET BY CARSON VALLEY FLORIST; HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY;<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN; SET FURNITURE AND DÉCOR FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS;<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

ON OLIVIA // RIGHT AND MIDDLE TOP:<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; EARRINGS BY SORRELLI JEWELRY;<br />

FLORAL CROWN, FLORAL RING AND BOUQUET BY STRELITZIA FLOWER COMPANY;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY; SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN;<br />

SET FURNITURE AND ARCH FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS; SET DRAPING LINENS FROM CREATIVE COVERINGS;<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

SET CAKE BY BATTER UP CAKERY<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 99


100 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


style<br />

ON OLIVIA // OPPOSITE PAGE ON TOP:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; EARRINGS AND BRACELET FROM MACY’S; BOUQUET BY WILD FLOWERS DESIGN GROUP;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON ERICKA // OPPOSITE PAGE ON BOTTOM:<br />

GOWN BY VALERI BRIDAL FROM DIAMOND BRIDAL GALLERY; JEWELRY BY MARIELL; BOUQUET BY PLACERVILLE FLOWERS ON MAIN;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

ON ERICKA // THIS PAGE IN GROUP ON LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM DE LA ROSA’S BRIDAL & TUXEDOS; HEADPIECE BY MARIELL; EARRINGS BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS;<br />

BOUQUET BY RODARTE FLORAL DESIGN;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

ON OLIVIA // THIS PAGE IN GROUP ON RIGHT:<br />

GOWN BY LUCE SPOSA FROM DIAMOND BRIDAL GALLERY; EARRINGS BY LUXURIOUS BRIDAL; BOUQUET BY THE BLOOM LAB;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN // SET FURNITURE FROM SACRAMENTO EVENT CO.<br />

SET DÉCOR FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS // SET LINENS FROM CREATIVE COVERINGS<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

SET CAKES BY BATTER UP CAKERY<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 101


ON OLIVIA // TOP LEFT AND MIDDLE:<br />

GOWN BY SOLO MERAV FROM DIAMOND BRIDAL GALLERY;<br />

JEWELRY BY SORRELLI JEWELRY; BOUQUET BY WILD FLOWERS DESIGN GROUP;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON OLIVIA // IN GROUP ON LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX; EARRINGS BY DEEPA GURNANI;<br />

BOUQUET BY AMBIENCE FLORAL DESIGN & GIFTS;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON ERICKA // IN GROUP ON RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; EARRINGS BY TWIGS & HONEY;<br />

BOUQUET BY RELLES FLORIST;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN;<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

SET CAKE BY BATTER UP CAKERY<br />

ON OLIVIA // TOP MIDDLE AND TOP RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX; EARRINGS BY LUXURIOUS BRIDAL; BOUQUET BY HILLSIDE BLOOMS FLORISTRY;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY;<br />

BALLOONS BY THE PARTY CONCIERGE<br />

102 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


ON ERICKA // LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; EARRINGS BY MARIELL; BRACELET FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOUQUET BY AMOUR FLORIST & BRIDAL; HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA;<br />

MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO;<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN;<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

SET CAKE BY BATTER UP CAKERY<br />

ON ERICKA // RIGHT AND MIDDLE TOP:<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; JEWELRY BY SORRELLI JEWELRY;<br />

BOUQUET BY CARSON VALLEY FLORIST;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO;<br />

BALLOONS BY THE PARTY CONCIERGE<br />

ON OLIVIA // IN GROUP ON LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX; EARRINGS BY DEEPA GURNANI; BOUQUET BY VISUAL IMPACT DESIGN;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON ERICKA // IN GROUP ON RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; EARRINGS BY TWIGS & HONEY;<br />

BOUQUET BY STRELITZIA FLOWER COMPANY; HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA;<br />

MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

BALLOONS BY THE PARTY CONCIERCE<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 103


ON ERICKA // IN GROUP ON LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; EARRINGS FROM USABRIDE; BELT BY LUXURIOUS BRIDAL;<br />

BOUQUET BY WILD FLOWERS DESIGN GROUP;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

ON OLIVIA // IN GROUP ON RIGHT AND MIDDLE BOTTOM LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX; HEADPIECE BY TWIGS & HONEY; EARRINGS BY SORRELLI JEWELRY;<br />

BOUQUET BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON OLIVIA // TOP RIGHT AND MIDDLE:<br />

GOWN FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; HEADPIECE BY MARIELL; EARRINGS BY CHLOE + ISABEL;<br />

BOUQUETS BY WILD FLOWERS DESIGN GROUP; HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON ERICKA // MIDDLE BOTTOM RIGHT AND BOTTOM RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; HEADPIECE AND EARRINGS BY TWIGS & HONEY;<br />

BOUQUET BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY AMES HAUS DESIGN // SET FURNITURE FROM SACRAMENTO EVENT CO.<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

104 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


THE DETAILS // VENUE<br />

<strong>The</strong> Kimpton Sawyer Hotel<br />

916-399-4730 | sawyerhotel.com<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER<br />

2 Girls 20 Cameras<br />

Ashley K<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> Gabby Terrasi<br />

916-580-8200 | 2girls20cameras.com<br />

VIDEOGRAPHER<br />

5 Star <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Films <strong>and</strong> Photography<br />

Rodger Sargent<br />

916-905-5782 | 5starwedd<strong>in</strong>gfilms.com<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP FOR OLIVIA:<br />

All Dolled Up Hair <strong>and</strong> Makeup Artistry<br />

Melissa Oretta (Hair) <strong>and</strong><br />

Lynsee Stewart (Makeup)<br />

530-206-7775<br />

<strong>all</strong>dolleduphair<strong>and</strong>makeup.com<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP FOR ERICKA:<br />

Halo Salon & Day Spa<br />

Alexis Reynolds (Hair)<br />

916-782-8842 | halosalondayspa.com<br />

Happily Beautiful Makeup Artistry<br />

& Sk<strong>in</strong> Studio<br />

Happi Ybarra (Makeup)<br />

530-632-0607<br />

happilybeautifulmakeup.com<br />

GOWNS<br />

Always Elegant Bridal & Tuxedo<br />

530-755-4282 | 530-487-7110<br />

alwayselegantbridal.net<br />

<strong>The</strong> Bridal Box<br />

916-742-4638 | thebridalbox.net<br />

<strong>The</strong> Clothes M<strong>in</strong>e<br />

209-267-0417 | theclothesm<strong>in</strong>e.com<br />

De La Rosa’s Bridal & Tuxedos<br />

916-983-3400 | delarosasbridal.com<br />

Diamond Bridal G<strong>all</strong>ery<br />

916-521-9856 | diamondbridalg<strong>all</strong>ery.com<br />

My Martha Design Boutique<br />

530-622-6009 | mymarthadesign.com<br />

Second <strong>Summer</strong> Bride<br />

916-330-4422<br />

secondsummerbridesacramento.com<br />

SHOES<br />

DSW | dsw.com<br />

ACCESSORIES<br />

Always Elegant Bridal & Tuxedo<br />

530-755-4282 | 530-487-7110<br />

alwayselegantbridal.net<br />

Chloe + Isabel | chloe<strong>and</strong>isabel.com<br />

Deepa Gurnani | deepagurnani.com<br />

Hair Comes the Bride<br />

haircomesthebride.com<br />

Luxurious Bridal<br />

209-400-1915 | luxuriousbridal.com<br />

Macy’s | Moka Davis,<br />

My Stylist@Macy’s Roseville G<strong>all</strong>eria<br />

916-787-3310 | macys.com/mystylist<br />

Mariell | mariellonl<strong>in</strong>e.com<br />

Sorrelli Jewelry | sorrelli.com<br />

Style Avenue Studios<br />

916-812-1114 | styleavenuestudios.com<br />

Twigs & Honey | twigs<strong>and</strong>honey.com<br />

USABride | usabride.com<br />

FLOWERS<br />

Accents by Sage Floral Design<br />

916-799-6242 | accentsbysage.com<br />

Ambience Floral Design & Gifts<br />

916-786-6851 | ambiencefloral.com<br />

Ames Haus Design<br />

916-730-1635 | ameshaus.com<br />

Amour Florist & Bridal<br />

916-392-8168 | amourmoments.com<br />

Bloem Decor<br />

916-447-2001 | bloemdecor.com<br />

<strong>The</strong> Bloom Lab<br />

916-996-5572 | thebloomlab.com<br />

Carson V<strong>all</strong>ey Florist<br />

775-266-9285 | carsonv<strong>all</strong>eyflorist.com<br />

Curious Floral<br />

916-812-2506 | curiousfloral.com<br />

Hillside Blooms Floristry<br />

530-320-4216 | hillsidebloomsfloristry.com<br />

Morn<strong>in</strong>gside Florist<br />

916-635-9891 | morn<strong>in</strong>gsideflorist.com<br />

Paradise Parkway Event Productions<br />

916-384-5520 | paradiseparkway.com<br />

Picture Perfect Petals<br />

760-846-0922 | pictureperfectpetals.com<br />

Placerville Flowers on Ma<strong>in</strong><br />

530-622-1121 | placervilleflowersonma<strong>in</strong>.com<br />

Relles Florist<br />

916-441-1478 | rellesflorist.com<br />

Rodarte Floral Design<br />

916-799-3625 | rodartefloraldesign.com<br />

Strelitzia Flower Company<br />

530-758-5050 | wedd<strong>in</strong>gsbystrelitzia.com<br />

Visual Impact Design<br />

916-489-3746 | visualimpact-design.com<br />

Wild Flowers Design Group<br />

916-899-1289 | wildflowersdesigngroup.com<br />

WHOLESALE FLOWERS<br />

Wholesale Flowers from FiftyFlowers.com<br />

877-507-6737 | fiftyflowers.com<br />

STYLED DÉCOR VIGNETTES<br />

DESIGNER, FLORAL DESIGNER<br />

AND SELECT DÉCOR<br />

Ames Haus Design<br />

916-730-1635 | ameshaus.com<br />

COPPER ARCH, WINE BARREL CHAIR, WILLIS<br />

RATTAN WINGBACK CHAIR, CANDLESTICKS<br />

AND MINI-GEOS/TERRARIUMS<br />

Blossom Farm V<strong>in</strong>tage Rentals<br />

530-681-8937 | blossomfarmrentals.com<br />

MONDRIAN LOUNGE COLLECTION,<br />

BERNHARDT OTTOMAN,<br />

PROSECCO BOXWOODS, ESSEX BAR BACK,<br />

CAPIT0L COCKTAIL TABLE AND<br />

PARAMOUNT BAR STOOLS<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong> Event Co.<br />

916-837-3684 | sacramentoeventco.com<br />

CLEAR NAPOLEON CHAIR<br />

St<strong>and</strong>ard Party Rentals<br />

888-200-6513 | st<strong>and</strong>ardpartyrentals.com<br />

SET LINENS, PILLOWS AND DRAPING<br />

Creative Cover<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

775-359-6733 | creativecover<strong>in</strong>gs.com<br />

DÉCOR FLOWERS<br />

Wholesale Flowers<br />

from FiftyFlowers.com<br />

Designed by Ames Haus Design<br />

877-507-6737 | fiftyflowers.com<br />

SET CAKES<br />

Batter Up Cakery<br />

707-439-8299 | batterupcakery.com<br />

BALLOONS<br />

<strong>The</strong> Party Concierge<br />

916-440-8080 | partyconcierge.com<br />

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR REAL BRIDE<br />

MODELS, OLIVIA AND ERICKA, AND ALL OF<br />

THE PROFESSIONALS WHO CONTRIBUTED<br />

TO THIS FEATURE!<br />

THANKS TO SPECIAL GUEST DOG, BEAU!<br />

WANT TO BE OUR NEXT<br />

COVER MODEL FINALIST?<br />

GO TO REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM<br />

AND CLICK ON<br />

“BE OUR NEXT COVER MODEL”<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 105


style: get to know our real bride models<br />

ON OLIVIA:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE;<br />

EARRINGS BY SORRELLI JEWELRY;<br />

BOUQUET BY HILLSIDE BLOOMS FLORISTRY;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY<br />

garden<br />

SECRET<br />

ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

STARRING OUR<br />

COVER MODEL CONTEST FINALIST<br />

OLIVIA FILBRANDT<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

2 GIRLS 20 CAMERAS<br />

ON LOCATION AT<br />

THE KIMPTON SAWYER HOTEL<br />

WHY DID YOU ENTER THIS CONTEST?<br />

Olivia: I fit the criteria: 1. bride <strong>and</strong> 2. NorCal gal. Nonetheless,<br />

while this little joke is partly true, I also hopped at the<br />

opportunity to try a bunch of different bridal styles, flowers,<br />

gowns <strong>and</strong> “get ups” to help <strong>in</strong>form my decisions for my own<br />

big day! And I hope see<strong>in</strong>g a gal like me <strong>in</strong> the styl<strong>in</strong>gs will also<br />

help other brides-to-be too!<br />

WHAT DID YOUR PARTNER THINK ABOUT YOU ENTERING<br />

THIS CONTEST? WHAT WAS THEIR REACTION WHEN YOU<br />

WERE SELECTED? WHAT WAS YOUR REACTION WHEN<br />

YOU WERE SELECTED?<br />

Olivia: When I was chosen, James was ecstatic for me to have<br />

this once-<strong>in</strong>-a-lifetime experience. Despite his energy, he<br />

wasn’t surprised because he "was excited for <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong>’<br />

readers to see [my] spunk <strong>and</strong> beauty that he loves each <strong>and</strong><br />

every day <strong>and</strong> forever more!" When I heard the news that I was<br />

chosen as a f<strong>in</strong>alist, I was surpris<strong>in</strong>gly calm—it felt too good to<br />

be true. When I arrived on set though, my heart started rac<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

<strong>and</strong> I couldn’t stop smil<strong>in</strong>g!<br />

TELL US ABOUT YOUR<br />

COVER MODEL EXPERIENCE.<br />

Olivia: From dawn until dusk, this shoot was one of my favorite<br />

parts of be<strong>in</strong>g engaged so far! I showed up at 7 a.m. on a<br />

Monday with dry hair <strong>and</strong> a full night’s sleep under my belt.<br />

My “glam team” immediately set to work, (hav<strong>in</strong>g set up at 6<br />

a.m.!) powder<strong>in</strong>g my nose, curl<strong>in</strong>g my hair, test<strong>in</strong>g dresses <strong>and</strong><br />

hold<strong>in</strong>g out bouquets. I was constantly flattered <strong>and</strong> impressed<br />

by the awesome energy each team member brought to the<br />

shoot; my glam team was unbelievably friendly, k<strong>in</strong>d <strong>and</strong><br />

encourag<strong>in</strong>g through each of the 17 (yes, 17!) looks.<br />

My favorite part of the day was when I showed up to the hotel<br />

bar <strong>are</strong>a <strong>in</strong> a more traditional look <strong>and</strong>, after photograph<strong>in</strong>g<br />

it, everyone agreed the sett<strong>in</strong>g deserved a more dramatic,<br />

va-voom look. I was hurried downstairs <strong>and</strong> <strong>in</strong>to a formfitt<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

v<strong>in</strong>tage-style gown that, upon my return, received a<br />

great whoop<strong>in</strong>g welcome. <strong>The</strong> sort of excitement everyone<br />

had <strong>in</strong> putt<strong>in</strong>g together the look so quickly <strong>and</strong> the sort<br />

of knowledge <strong>and</strong> attentiveness to each detail <strong>in</strong> do<strong>in</strong>g so<br />

was awe-<strong>in</strong>spir<strong>in</strong>g! OO<br />

—Interviewed by Emily Peter<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

to learn more about<br />

Olivia <strong>and</strong> to see<br />

more photos from our<br />

“Secret Garden”<br />

photo shoot.<br />

106 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


style: get to know our real bride models<br />

garden<br />

SECRET<br />

STARRING OUR<br />

COVER MODEL CONTEST FINALIST<br />

ERICKA WANG<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

2 GIRLS 20 CAMERAS<br />

ON LOCATION AT<br />

THE KIMPTON SAWYER HOTEL<br />

ON ERICKA:<br />

GOWN FROM<br />

DE LA ROSA’S BRIDAL & TUXEDOS;<br />

EARRINGS BY SORRELLI JEWELRY;<br />

BOUQUET BY AMES HAUS DESIGN<br />

WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM<br />

FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA;<br />

MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP<br />

ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY<br />

AMES HAUS DESIGN<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY<br />

AMES HAUS DESIGN<br />

WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM<br />

FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

SET CAKES BY BATTER UP CAKERY<br />

WHY DID YOU ENTER THIS CONTEST?<br />

Ericka: It was parti<strong>all</strong>y an impulse decision, but I’m so glad I<br />

did! A coworker of m<strong>in</strong>e had been selected as a <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong><br />

<strong>Real</strong> Bride Model previously <strong>and</strong> encouraged me to do it. She<br />

told me what an amaz<strong>in</strong>g experience it was, so I couldn’t pass<br />

up the opportunity to be a part of it <strong>all</strong>.<br />

WHAT DID YOUR PARTNER THINK ABOUT YOU ENTERING<br />

THIS CONTEST? WHAT WAS THEIR REACTION WHEN YOU<br />

WERE SELECTED? WHAT WAS YOUR REACTION WHEN<br />

YOU WERE SELECTED?<br />

Ericka: My husb<strong>and</strong> wasn’t the least bit surprised. I’m always<br />

gett<strong>in</strong>g some wild idea <strong>and</strong> throw<strong>in</strong>g it at him, <strong>and</strong> he just goes<br />

along with it (one of the many reasons I love him so much!).<br />

I, on the other h<strong>and</strong>, was very surprised <strong>and</strong> excited to be<br />

selected. It was so surreal at first <strong>and</strong> then went by so fast. I’m<br />

still wonder<strong>in</strong>g if it was a dream!<br />

707-637-7803 | www.vicensforns.com<br />

TELL US ABOUT YOUR<br />

COVER MODEL EXPERIENCE.<br />

Ericka: I feel like words can’t do this experience justice! I’ve<br />

always wondered what it would be like even just as a fly<br />

on the w<strong>all</strong> dur<strong>in</strong>g these types of photo shoots, so just to<br />

be t<strong>here</strong> <strong>and</strong> see <strong>all</strong> the hard work that goes <strong>in</strong>to it was eye<br />

open<strong>in</strong>g—it was full speed ahead from the get-go. I walked <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>and</strong> immediately got put <strong>in</strong>to hair <strong>and</strong> makeup, <strong>and</strong> then after<br />

that we were serv<strong>in</strong>g up looks on looks on looks. It was such a<br />

rush! <strong>The</strong>re were so many favorite moments, but I absolutely<br />

loved gett<strong>in</strong>g to try a bunch of different styles of hairstyles,<br />

makeup looks <strong>and</strong> dresses that I wouldn’t have picked for my<br />

own wedd<strong>in</strong>g. <strong>The</strong> experience gave me a chance to live out my<br />

“what if...” moments <strong>and</strong> test drive some more dar<strong>in</strong>g or even<br />

just different options that I was too chicken to try. I’m not go<strong>in</strong>g<br />

to lie, I was a little nervous about how I would look pos<strong>in</strong>g<br />

for photos or if I’d photograph well, but the whole team<br />

was SO amaz<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> supportive. It was def<strong>in</strong>itely a major<br />

confidence booster to hear the ladies get so excited over<br />

the completed looks <strong>and</strong> photos! I was so sad when it was<br />

over, because it was so much fun (I’m still not over it, ha<br />

ha!). It was such an unforgettable experience! OO<br />

—Interviewed by Emily Peter<br />

108 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

to learn more about<br />

Ericka <strong>and</strong> to see<br />

more photos from our<br />

“Secret Garden”<br />

photo shoot.


PHOTOS BY ERICA BALDWIN PHOTOGRAPHY /<br />

ERICABALDWINPHOTOGRAPHY.COM<br />

A Beautiful Place for a Memorable Event<br />

— Amenities & Services —<br />

Two Beautiful Outdoor Ceremony Sites Three Elegant Indoor B<strong>all</strong>rooms<br />

Ceremony Site Include:<br />

• 30 M<strong>in</strong>ute Rehearsal with Event Coord<strong>in</strong>ator<br />

• <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Day Ceremony Coord<strong>in</strong>ation<br />

• Set Up <strong>and</strong> Break Down of White <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Chairs<br />

• White Wrought Iron Arch to Decorate<br />

• White Gazebo to Decorate<br />

Reception Rooms Include:<br />

• Banquet Capta<strong>in</strong> to Oversee Reception Details<br />

• Profession<strong>all</strong>y Uniformed Banquet Staff<br />

• Complimentary Self-Park<strong>in</strong>g<br />

• Mirror Tile <strong>and</strong> Four Votive C<strong>and</strong>les per table<br />

• Two Complimentary Admissions to “Date to Taste”<br />

• Endless Romantic Picture Opportunities<br />

702 Gold Lake Drive, Folsom, CA 95630 | 916.932.2769 | wedd<strong>in</strong>gs@lakenatoma<strong>in</strong>n.com<br />

www.lakenatoma<strong>in</strong>n.com


style: the sets from our cover model contest photo shoot<br />

garden<br />

SECRET<br />

DESIGNED BY<br />

AMES HAUS DESIGN<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

2 GIRLS 20 CAMERAS<br />

SHOT ON LOCATION AT<br />

THE KIMPTON SAWYER HOTEL<br />

SETS DESIGNED BY<br />

AMES HAUS DESIGN<br />

SET FURNITURE AND DÉCOR FROM<br />

BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS,<br />

SACRAMENTO EVENT CO. AND<br />

STANDARD PARTY RENTALS<br />

SET LINENS, PILLOWS AND<br />

DRAPING FROM CREATIVE<br />

COVERINGS<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY<br />

AMES HAUS DESIGN WITH<br />

WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM<br />

FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

SET CAKES BY BATTER UP CAKERY<br />

FROM OUR “SECRET GARDEN”<br />

PHOTO SHOOT—<br />

FOR ADDITIONAL CREDITS<br />

TURN TO PAGE 105<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

to see more décor<br />

photos from our<br />

“Secret Garden”<br />

photo shoot.<br />

110 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


UNFORGETTABLE STYLE<br />

AT UNBEATABLE PRICES<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong> • Roseville • Reno • CelebrationsPartyRentals.com


ON BLYTHE (LEFT):<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE;<br />

JEWELRY FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOUQUET BY FLOURISH;<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST ;<br />

MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

style<br />

ON CURISSA (RIGHT):<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX;<br />

JEWELRY BY SORRELLI JEWELRY;<br />

BOUQUET BY PLACERVILLE FLOWERS ON MAIN;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY<br />

PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

SET FURNITURE AND DÉCOR FROM<br />

BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY<br />

PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

SET CAKE BY FRANK VILT’S CAKES<br />

gold country<br />

GLAM<br />

STARRING OUR COVER MODEL FINALISTS<br />

BLYTHE SUAZO AND CURISSA WATTS<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY FARRELL PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

ON LOCATION AT HOTEL SUTTER<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY,<br />

HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO AND LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST<br />

SETS DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

SET FURNITURE FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS<br />

SET DÉCOR FLOWERS FROM WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

DESIGNED BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

SET CAKES BY FRANK VILT’S CAKES<br />

VIDEOGRAPHY BY JB WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

PRODUCED BY REAL WEDDINGS MAGAZINE TEAM: SUSIE BAGGETT, EUDELYS BLANCO, SHIRLEY BURROWS,<br />

TATIANA JITARI, NATHALIA KALLAN, EMILY PETER, AMANDA RINEHART, WENDY SIPPLE, LEAH SISTO AND ALESANDRA VELEZ<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 113


114 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


style<br />

ON CURISSA // OPPOSITE PAGE ON LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; JEWELRY BY CHLOE + ISABEL; BOUQUET BY CARSON VALLEY FLORIST;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON BLYTHE // OPPOSITE PAGE ON LEFT:<br />

JACKET DRESS FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; EARRINGS BY MARIELL; SHOES FROM DSW;<br />

BOUQUET BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

ON CURISSA // THIS PAGE IN GROUP ON RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX; JEWELRY BY SORRELLI JEWELRY;<br />

BOUQUET BY PLACERVILLE FLOWERS ON MAIN; HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON BLYTHE // THIS PAGE IN GROUP ON LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; JEWELRY FROM MACY’S; BOUQUET BY FLOURISH;<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

SET FURNITURE AND DÉCOR FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

SET CAKE BY FRANK VILT’S CAKES<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 115


ON BLYTHE // TOP LEFT AND MIDDLE TOP:<br />

GOWN FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; HEADPIECE AND EARRINGS BY LUXURIOUS BRIDAL;<br />

SHOES FROM DSW; BOUQUET BY MORNINGSIDE FLORIST<br />

ON BLYTHE // RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; HEADPIECE BY ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO;<br />

EARRINGS FROM MACY’S; BOUQUET BY STRELITZIA FLOWER COMPANY<br />

ON BLYTHE // BOTTOM LEFT AND MIDDLE BOTTOM:<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX; HEADPIECE AND EARRINGS BY USABRIDE;<br />

BRACELET FROM MACY’S; BOUQUET BY THE PARTY CONCIERGE<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST;<br />

MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

116 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


ON CURISSA // LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; HEADPIECE AND EARRINGS BY USABRIDE;<br />

BOUQUET BY CARSON VALLEY FLORIST<br />

ON CURISSA // MIDDLE TOP AND TOP RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM DIAMOND BRIDAL GALLERY; JEWELRY FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOUQUET BY STRELITZIA FLOWER COMPANY<br />

ON CURISSA // MIDDLE BOTTOM AND BOTTOM RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM DE LA ROSA’S BRIDAL & TUXEDOS;<br />

HEADPIECE BY ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; EARRINGS FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOUQUET BY RODARTE FLORAL DESIGN<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 117


ON CURISSA // LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; EARRINGS FROM MACY’S;<br />

FLORAL HAIR COMB AND BOUQUET BY CARSON VALLEY FLORIST<br />

ON CURISSA // RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM MY MARTHA DESIGN BOUTIQUE; EARRINGS AND NECKLACE BY SORRELLI JEWELRY;<br />

BRACELET BY CHLOE + ISABEL; BOUQUET BY RELLES FLORIST;<br />

SHOT ON LOCATION AT KNIGHT FOUNDRY IN SUTTER CREEK<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

118 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


ON BLYTHE // LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM DE LA ROSA’S BRIDAL & TUXEDOS; HEADPIECE BY TWIGS & HONEY; EARRINGS BY USABRIDE;<br />

NECKLACE FROM MACY’S; BOUQUET BY ACCENTS BY SAGE FLORAL DESIGN;<br />

SHOT ON LOCATION AT KNIGHT FOUNDRY IN SUTTER CREEK<br />

ON BLYTHE // MIDDLE TOP AND TOP RIGHT;<br />

GOWN FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; JEWELRY FROM MACY’S;<br />

FLORAL COMB AND BOUQUET BY CARSON VALLEY FLORIST<br />

ON BLYTHE // MIDDLE BOTTOM AND BOTTOM RIGHT:<br />

GOWN BY SOLO MERAV FROM DIAMOND BRIDAL GALLERY; HEADPIECE AND EARRINGS FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOUQUET BY MORNINGSIDE FLORIST<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 119


ON BLYTHE // LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; EARRINGS BY TWIGS & HONEY; BOOTS BY ARIAT; BOUQUET BY FLOURISH<br />

ON BLYTHE // RIGHT:<br />

GOWN BY SOLO MERAV FROM DIAMOND BRIDAL GALLERY; EARRINGS BY MARIELL; SHOES FROM DSW;<br />

BOUQUET BY PLACERVILLE FLOWERS ON MAIN<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

120 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


ON CURISSA // LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; EARRINGS FROM MACY’S; SHOES FROM DSW;<br />

BOUQUET BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

ON CURISSA // RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; HEADPIECE BY LUXURIOUS BRIDAL;<br />

JEWELRY BY MARIELL; BOUQUET BY AMES HAUS DESIGN<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 121


ON CURISSA // IN GROUP ON LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM DE LA ROSA’S BRIDAL & TUXEDOS; EARRINGS BY TWIGS & HONEY;<br />

BOUQUET BY CURIOUS FLORAL;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON BLYTHE // IN GROUP ON RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; HEADPIECE BY LUXURIOUS BRIDAL;<br />

JEWELRY BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS;<br />

BOUQUET BY STRELITZIA FLOWER COMPANY;<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST;<br />

MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

ON CURISSA // RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX; HEADPIECE BY HAIR COMES THE BRIDE; EARRINGS FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOUQUET BY ACCENTS BY SAGE FLORAL DESIGN;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

SET FURNITURE AND DÉCOR FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

SET CAKE BY FRANK VILT’S CAKES<br />

122 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


ON BLYTHE:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; HEADPIECE BY HAIR COMES THE BRIDE; EARRINGS FROM MACY’S;<br />

BRACELET BY MARIELL; BOUQUET BY RELLES FLORIST;<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST;<br />

MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

ON CURISSA:<br />

GOWN BY SOLO MERAV FROM DIAMOND BRIDAL GALLERY; HEADPIECE BY HAIR COMES THE BRIDE;<br />

JEWELRY BY USABRIDE; BOUQUET BY FLOURISH;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

SET FURNITURE AND DÉCOR FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

SET CAKE BY FRANK VILT’S CAKES<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 123


ON CURISSA:<br />

GOWN BY VALERI BRIDAL FROM DIAMOND BRIDAL GALLERY;<br />

EARRINGS FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOUQUET BY RODARTE FLORAL DESIGN<br />

ON CURISSA:<br />

GOWN FROM ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO; JEWELRY FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOOTS BY ARIAT; BOUQUET BY CURIOUS FLORAL<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

124 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


ON BLYTHE // LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; HAIR COMBS BY ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO;<br />

JEWELRY FROM MACY’S; BOUQUET BY ACCENTS BY SAGE FLORAL DESIGN<br />

ON BLYTHE // RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; HAIR COMBS BY ALWAYS ELEGANT BRIDAL & TUXEDO;<br />

JEWELRY FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOOTS BY ARIAT; BOUQUET BY WILD FLOWERS DESIGN GROUP<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST;<br />

MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 125


ON CURISSA // LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; EARRINGS BY TWIGS & HONEY; BOUQUET BY THE PARTY CONCIERGE<br />

ON CURISSA // RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; EARRINGS BY TWIGS & HONEY; BOUQUET BY CARSON VALLEY FLORIST<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

SET FURNITURE AND DÉCOR FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

SET CAKES BY FRANK VILT’S CAKES<br />

126 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


style<br />

ON BLYTHE // TOP:<br />

GOWN FROM MY MARTHA DESIGN BOUTIQUE; EARRINGS BY MARIELL; SHOES FROM DSW; BOUQUET BY CARSON VALLEY FLORIST<br />

ON BLYTHE // BOTTOM:<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; EARRINGS BY DEEPA GURNANI; BOUQUET BY PLACERVILLE FLOWERS ON MAIN<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

SET FURNITURE AND DÉCOR FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

SET CAKES BY FRANK VILT’S CAKES<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 127


style<br />

ON CURISSA // IN GROUP ON LEFT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE CLOTHES MINE; EARRINGS BY USABRIDE;<br />

BOUQUET BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM;<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

ON BLYTHE // IN GROUP ON RIGHT:<br />

GOWN FROM THE BRIDAL BOX; EARRINGS BY CHLOE + ISABEL; BOUQUET BY RODARTE FLORAL DESIGN;<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

SET DESIGN AND FLORAL DESIGN BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

SET FURNITURE AND DÉCOR FROM BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY PARADISE PARKWAY EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

WITH WHOLESALE FLOWERS FROM FIFTYFLOWERS.COM<br />

128 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


THE DETAILS // VENUE<br />

Hotel Sutter<br />

209-267-0242 | hotelsutter.com<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER<br />

Farrell Photography<br />

Steve, Stephanie <strong>and</strong> Jesse Farrell<br />

209-257-4583 | 916-717-7902<br />

farrellphotography.net<br />

VIDEOGRAPHER<br />

JB <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Photography<br />

Just<strong>in</strong> Buettner<br />

916-220-0159 | jbwedd<strong>in</strong>gphoto.com<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP FOR BLYTHE:<br />

Lisa Harter Hair <strong>and</strong> Makeup Artist<br />

Lisa Harter (Hair)<br />

530-559-7292 | lisamharter.com<br />

Happily Beautiful Makeup Artistry<br />

& Sk<strong>in</strong> Studio<br />

Happi Ybarra (Makeup)<br />

530-632-0607<br />

happilybeautifulmakeup.com<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP FOR CURISSA:<br />

All Dolled Up Hair <strong>and</strong> Makeup Artistry<br />

Melissa Oretta (Hair) <strong>and</strong><br />

Lynsee Stewart (Makeup)<br />

530-206-7775<br />

<strong>all</strong>dolleduphair<strong>and</strong>makeup.com<br />

GOWNS<br />

Always Elegant Bridal & Tuxedo<br />

530-755-4282 | 530-487-7110<br />

alwayselegantbridal.net<br />

<strong>The</strong> Bridal Box<br />

916-742-4638 | thebridalbox.net<br />

<strong>The</strong> Clothes M<strong>in</strong>e<br />

209-267-0417 | theclothesm<strong>in</strong>e.com<br />

De La Rosa’s Bridal & Tuxedos<br />

916-983-3400 | delarosasbridal.com<br />

Diamond Bridal G<strong>all</strong>ery<br />

916-521-9856 | diamondbridalg<strong>all</strong>ery.com<br />

My Martha Design Boutique<br />

530-622-6009 | mymarthadesign.com<br />

Second <strong>Summer</strong> Bride<br />

916-330-4422<br />

secondsummerbridesacramento.com<br />

BOOTS<br />

Ariat | ariat.com<br />

SHOES<br />

DSW | dsw.com<br />

ACCESSORIES<br />

Always Elegant Bridal & Tuxedo<br />

530-755-4282 | 530-487-7110<br />

alwayselegantbridal.net<br />

Chloe + Isabel | chloe<strong>and</strong>isabel.com<br />

Deepa Gurnani | deepagurnani.com<br />

Hair Comes the Bride<br />

haircomesthebride.com<br />

Luxurious Bridal<br />

209-400-1915 | luxuriousbridal.com<br />

Macy’s | Moka Davis,<br />

My Stylist@Macy’s Roseville G<strong>all</strong>eria<br />

916-787-3310 | macys.com/mystylist<br />

Mariell | mariellonl<strong>in</strong>e.com<br />

Sorrelli Jewelry | sorrelli.com<br />

Style Avenue Studios<br />

916-812-1114 | styleavenuestudios.com<br />

Twigs & Honey | twigs<strong>and</strong>honey.com<br />

USABride | usabride.com<br />

FLOWERS<br />

Accents by Sage Floral Design<br />

916-799-6242 | accentsbysage.com<br />

Ames Haus Design<br />

916-730-1635 | ameshaus.com<br />

Amour Florist & Bridal<br />

916-392-8168 | amourmoments.com<br />

Carson V<strong>all</strong>ey Florist<br />

775-266-9285 | carsonv<strong>all</strong>eyflorist.com<br />

Curious Floral<br />

916-812-2506 | curiousfloral.com<br />

Flourish<br />

916-212-5179 | flourishdesigns.com<br />

Morn<strong>in</strong>gside Florist<br />

916-635-9891 | morn<strong>in</strong>gsideflorist.com<br />

Paradise Parkway Event Productions<br />

916-384-5520 | paradiseparkway.com<br />

<strong>The</strong> Party Concierge<br />

916-440-8080 | partyconcierge.com<br />

Placerville Flowers on Ma<strong>in</strong><br />

530-622-1121 | placervilleflowersonma<strong>in</strong>.com<br />

Relles Florist<br />

916-441-1478 | rellesflorist.com<br />

Rodarte Floral Design<br />

916-799-3625 | rodartefloraldesign.com<br />

Strelitzia Flower Company<br />

530-758-5050 | wedd<strong>in</strong>gsbystrelitzia.com<br />

Wild Flowers Design Group<br />

916-899-1289 | wildflowersdesigngroup.com<br />

WHOLESALE FLOWERS<br />

Wholesale Flowers from FiftyFlowers.com<br />

877-507-6737 | fiftyflowers.com<br />

STYLED DÉCOR VIGNETTES<br />

DESIGNER AND FLORAL DESIGNER<br />

Paradise Parkway Event Productions<br />

916-384-5520 | paradiseparkway.com<br />

FURNITURE AND DÉCOR<br />

Blossom Farm V<strong>in</strong>tage Rentals<br />

530-681-8937 | blossomfarmrentals.com<br />

DÉCOR FLOWERS<br />

Wholesale Flowers<br />

from FiftyFlowers.com<br />

Designed by Paradise Parkway Event Productions<br />

877-507-6737 | fiftyflowers.com<br />

SET CAKES<br />

Frank Vilt’s Cakes<br />

530-409-7046 | frankviltscakes.com<br />

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR REAL BRIDE<br />

MODELS, CURISSA AND BLYTHE, AND ALL OF<br />

THE PROFESSIONALS WHO CONTRIBUTED<br />

TO THIS FEATURE!<br />

WANT TO BE OUR NEXT<br />

COVER MODEL FINALIST?<br />

GO TO REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM<br />

AND CLICK ON<br />

“BE OUR NEXT COVER MODEL”<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 129


Outfitt<strong>in</strong>g your<br />

entire wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

party for more<br />

than 45 years!<br />

De La Rosa’s<br />

Bridal & Tuxedos<br />

319 East Bidwell Street Folsom, CA 95630<br />

916-983-3400<br />

www.delarosasbridal.com<br />

style: get to know our real bride models<br />

ON CURISSA:<br />

GOWN FROM DE LA ROSA’S BRIDAL & TUXEDOS;<br />

HEADPIECE BY TWIGS & HONEY; EARRINGS FROM MACY’S;<br />

BELT BY LUXURIOUS BRIDAL;<br />

BOUQUET BY CARSON VALLEY FLORIST;<br />

gold country<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY<br />

ALL DOLLED UP<br />

HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY<br />

GLAM<br />

STARRING OUR<br />

COVER MODEL CONTEST FINALIST<br />

CURISSA WATTS<br />

WHY DID YOU ENTER THIS CONTEST?<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

FARRELL PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

ON LOCATION AT<br />

HOTEL SUTTER<br />

Curissa: It’s a dream of m<strong>in</strong>e to be on the cover of a magaz<strong>in</strong>e.<br />

This past New Year’s Eve, my fiancé <strong>and</strong> I spent the even<strong>in</strong>g<br />

writ<strong>in</strong>g down our dreams <strong>and</strong> goals for <strong>2019</strong>. One of my goals<br />

was to be on the cover of a magaz<strong>in</strong>e. I have a very unique look,<br />

wild curly hair, <strong>and</strong> I’m only five feet t<strong>all</strong>. So I don’t necessarily<br />

fit the “st<strong>and</strong>ard of beauty” that some would expect from a<br />

cover model. This is why I appreciate spaces w<strong>here</strong> diversity<br />

is celebrated because it shows everyone that they should feel<br />

beautiful <strong>and</strong> comfortable <strong>in</strong> how they were created! I want to<br />

be someone who promotes self-love <strong>and</strong> makes people feel<br />

good about themselves. It’s my way of say<strong>in</strong>g “This is why YOU<br />

should love yourself. You’re beautiful the way you <strong>are</strong>.”<br />

At the time, I didn’t know how I would achieve that goal! I<br />

just knew <strong>in</strong> my heart that it was someth<strong>in</strong>g I wanted, <strong>and</strong> I<br />

knew by writ<strong>in</strong>g it down, I could manifest it. On January 30,<br />

the manager of my wedd<strong>in</strong>g venue forwarded me a l<strong>in</strong>k to<br />

the contest. <strong>The</strong> deadl<strong>in</strong>e was February 5 <strong>and</strong> I dropped off<br />

my entry that day. I thought it was so cool how just a month<br />

prior I wrote this goal down <strong>and</strong> now the opportunity was<br />

right <strong>in</strong> front of me! No one but my fiancé knew that this was<br />

someth<strong>in</strong>g I longed for. But still, the opportunity found its way<br />

to me. I believe it was dest<strong>in</strong>y. This was meant to be.<br />

TELL US ABOUT YOUR<br />

COVER MODEL EXPERIENCE.<br />

Curissa: It was so surreal. I felt like I needed to p<strong>in</strong>ch myself<br />

<strong>throughout</strong> the day to see if I was dream<strong>in</strong>g. I was so amazed at<br />

the energy on set. From the glam team, to the photographers,<br />

to the set designers <strong>and</strong> <strong>Real</strong> <strong><strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong>s</strong> team, everyone was<br />

passionate about their craft <strong>and</strong> genu<strong>in</strong>ely happy to be t<strong>here</strong>.<br />

<strong>The</strong> whole team was supportive <strong>and</strong> encourag<strong>in</strong>g toward me.<br />

I felt extremely comfortable with a group of people I had<br />

just met! By the middle of the day, it felt like we were one<br />

big family. We were crack<strong>in</strong>g jokes <strong>in</strong> between shots <strong>and</strong> just<br />

hav<strong>in</strong>g a blast <strong>in</strong> each other’s company.<br />

Over<strong>all</strong>, my cover model experience was phenomenal! I<br />

drove home cry<strong>in</strong>g because I was so overwhelmed with<br />

gratitude. <strong>The</strong> day was amaz<strong>in</strong>g from start to f<strong>in</strong>ish. I felt<br />

extremely <strong>in</strong>spired to cont<strong>in</strong>ue to pursue my dreams no<br />

matter how far-fetched, gr<strong>and</strong> or scary they may seem! This<br />

cover model shoot was proof that anyth<strong>in</strong>g is possible. OO<br />

—Interviewed by Emily Peter<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

to learn more about<br />

Curissa <strong>and</strong> to see<br />

more photos from our<br />

“Gold Country Glam”<br />

photo shoot.<br />

130 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


RWS-TPG-2018-Cover-OPTIONS.<strong>in</strong>dd 5<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM<br />

11/6/17 4:27 PM<br />

DISPLAY UNTIL MAY 31, <strong>2019</strong><br />

WINTER <strong>2019</strong><br />

DISPLAY UNTIL FEBRUARY 28, <strong>2019</strong><br />

RWS-WS19-CoverModel-#2-MOCKS-NARROWED-FINALS.<strong>in</strong>dd 16<br />

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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR COVER MODEL WINNER MAGGIE!<br />

OUR COVER MODEL CONTEST FINALIST SHOOT WAS PHOTOGRAPHED EXCLUSIVELY BY TY PENTECOST PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

ON LOCATION AT SHERATON GRAND SACRAMENTO HOTEL. FOR MORE, TURN TO PAGE 111.<br />

ON MAGGIE: GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; EARRINGS BY CHLOE + ISABEL; BOUQUET BY RELLES FLORIST;<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST; MAKEUP BY JENIFER HAUPT, I MAKE BEAUTIFUL<br />

11/12/18 2:51 PM<br />

11/9/18 10:06 PM<br />

let’s plan!<br />

Look<strong>in</strong>g for your<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Dream Team?<br />

<strong>The</strong>y’re <strong>all</strong> right <strong>here</strong> <strong>in</strong> REAL WEDDINGS!<br />

FALL 2017<br />

DISPLAY UNTIL NOVEMBER 30, 2017<br />

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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR COVER MODEL CONTEST WINNER: KAYLA!<br />

OUR COVER MODEL CONTEST FINALIST SHOOT WAS PHOTOGRAPHED EXCLUSIVELY BY JULIA CROTEAU PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

ON LOCATION AT OLD SUGAR MILL. FOR MORE, TURN TO PAGE 105.<br />

GOWN FROM DE LA ROSA’S BRIDAL & TUXEDOS, HEADPIECE BY FORMÉ MILLINERY COMPANY, EARRINGS AND PENDANT NECKLACE BY STYLE AVENUE STUDIOS,<br />

PEARL NECKLACES BY CAROLEE, HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ALL DOLLED LED UP HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY, CAKE BY SOMETHING SWEET BAKERY<br />

RWS-SF17-Fa l 2017-Cover-REV.<strong>in</strong>dd 1 5/8/17 2:14 PM<br />

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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR COVER MODEL WINNERS NICOLETTE AND QUINN!<br />

OUR COVER MODEL CONTEST FINALIST SHOOT WAS PHOTOGRAPHED EXCLUSIVELY BY ROCHELLE WILHELMS PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

ON LOCATION AT TRIPLE S RANCH. FOR MORE, TURN TO PAGE 87.<br />

sacramento to the sierra<br />

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ON NIKKI (LEFT): GOWN FROM ANHA'S BRIDAL; EARRINGS BY PERFECT DETAILS; BRACELET BY ERICA KOESLER; SHOES FROM DSW;<br />

BOUQUET BY RELLES FLORIST; HAIR BY HALO SALON & DAY SPA; MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY AND SKIN STUDIO<br />

ON QUINN (RIGHT): SKIRT FROM SPARKLE BRIDAL COUTURE; DENIM JACKET AND TANK TOP FROM OLD NAVY;<br />

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RWS-WS19-CoverModel-#1-MOCKS-RELINKED TO NEW-X2-NARROWED-FINALS-f<strong>in</strong>al.<strong>in</strong>dd 49 11/13/18 3:06 PM<br />

RWS-TPG-2016-Covers-FINAL.<strong>in</strong>dd 2<br />

THE<br />

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style: get to know our real bride models<br />

ON BLYTHE:<br />

GOWN FROM SECOND SUMMER BRIDE; JEWELRY FROM MACY’S;<br />

BOUQUET BY AMOUR FLORIST & BRIDAL;<br />

HAIR BY LISA HARTER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST;<br />

MAKEUP BY HAPPILY BEAUTIFUL MAKEUP ARTISTRY & SKIN STUDIO<br />

gold country<br />

GLAM<br />

STARRING OUR<br />

COVER MODEL CONTEST FINALIST<br />

BLYTHE SUAZO<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

FARRELL PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

ON LOCATION AT<br />

HOTEL SUTTER<br />

WHY DID YOU ENTER THIS CONTEST?<br />

Blythe: It felt like the perfect way to truly embrace<br />

<strong>and</strong> celebrate everyth<strong>in</strong>g about my new chapter of<br />

becom<strong>in</strong>g a BRIDE! Especi<strong>all</strong>y be<strong>in</strong>g a <strong>Sacramento</strong><br />

native with so much love for my roots, I just knew<br />

this opportunity would be a phenomenal way to<br />

commemorate that.<br />

WHAT DID YOUR PARTNER THINK ABOUT YOU<br />

ENTERING THIS CONTEST? WHAT WAS THEIR<br />

REACTION WHEN YOU WERE SELECTED? WHAT<br />

WAS YOUR REACTION WHEN YOU WERE SELECTED?<br />

Blythe: He was so excited (<strong>and</strong> cute)—we both weren’t<br />

so sure if anyth<strong>in</strong>g would come of it, but the hope for<br />

this unique possibility was def<strong>in</strong>itely t<strong>here</strong>. When I was<br />

selected I am pretty certa<strong>in</strong> he shouted “MY BRIDE<br />

IS FAMOUS, WOOWEE HOT MOMMA!!” I was so<br />

overwhelmed (<strong>in</strong> the best way possible!), <strong>and</strong> while I<br />

have no model<strong>in</strong>g experience <strong>and</strong> had no idea what to<br />

expect, I could not stop smil<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> could not wait for<br />

the shoot to come!<br />

Lawley Ranch<br />

40298 BEST RANCH ROAD, WOODLAND<br />

LAWLEYRANCH.COM | (530) 405-9514<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

to learn more about<br />

Blythe <strong>and</strong> to see<br />

more photos from our<br />

“Gold Country Glam”<br />

photo shoot.<br />

132 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM<br />

TELL US ABOUT YOUR<br />

COVER MODEL EXPERIENCE.<br />

Blythe: I can’t even beg<strong>in</strong> to express how <strong>in</strong>credible the<br />

entire day was. I walked <strong>in</strong>to Hotel Sutter to so many<br />

beautiful, smil<strong>in</strong>g faces, a robe <strong>and</strong> flip flops wait<strong>in</strong>g<br />

for me, <strong>and</strong> superwomen as my hair <strong>and</strong> makeup team.<br />

Everyone made me feel as if we’d been friends for years;<br />

it was so comfortable. I truly felt like a bridal QUEEN;<br />

<strong>all</strong> of the thought <strong>and</strong> heart that went <strong>in</strong>to mak<strong>in</strong>g every<br />

different look what it was simply comes down to one<br />

word: magic. That’s what the whole process was. From<br />

the coord<strong>in</strong>ators, photographers <strong>and</strong> videographer, hair<br />

<strong>and</strong> makeup, fashion team to the bridal bouquets…if<br />

you can’t tell, I could go on <strong>and</strong> on! It’s impossible to<br />

choose a favorite part, because it’s genu<strong>in</strong>ely the entire<br />

start to f<strong>in</strong>ish that made this such a special experience.<br />

My heart was overflow<strong>in</strong>g with joy <strong>and</strong> eagerness<br />

know<strong>in</strong>g this “practice bridal run” would soon be the<br />

real deal; <strong>and</strong> I couldn’t stop reflect<strong>in</strong>g on how I can’t<br />

wait to say “I Do” to my best friend. <strong>The</strong> excitement<br />

from the day filled every room we went to, <strong>and</strong> I<br />

couldn’t wipe the smile off my face afterward! OO<br />

—Interviewed by Emily Peter


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style: the sets from our cover model contest photo shoot<br />

gold country<br />

GLAM<br />

DESIGNED BY<br />

PARADISE PARKWAY<br />

EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

FARRELL PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

SHOT ON LOCATION AT<br />

HOTEL SUTTER<br />

SETS DESIGNED BY<br />

PARADISE PARKWAY<br />

EVENT PRODUCTIONS<br />

SET FURNITURE AND DÉCOR FROM<br />

BLOSSOM FARM VINTAGE RENTALS<br />

SET FLOWERS DESIGNED BY<br />

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SET CAKES BY<br />

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FROM OUR<br />

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PHOTO SHOOT—<br />

FOR ADDITIONAL CREDITS<br />

TURN TO PAGE 129<br />

> Visit our website<br />

realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

to see more décor<br />

photos from our<br />

“Gold Country Glam”<br />

photo shoot.<br />

134 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


snapshots<br />

LAURA & KYLE<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER: BETHANY PETRIK PHOTOGRAPHY | BETHANYPETRIK.COM<br />

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LAUREL & ABEL<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER: MARIEA RUMMEL PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

MARIEARUMMEL.COM<br />

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SHELBY & JUSTIN<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER: CORI ANN PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

CORIANNPHOTOGRAPHY.COM<br />

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TAYLOR & KRISTOPHER<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER: DEE & KRIS PHOTOGRAPHY | DEEANDKRISPHOTOGRAPHY.COM<br />

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KRISSY & JEFF<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER: ERICA BALDWIN PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

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LETICIA & LUIS<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER: MONICA S PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

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KATIE & PETER<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER: LAUREN HALEY PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

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BECCA & JACOB<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER: COURTNEY ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

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JANAE & AUSTIN<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER: ANDREW & MELANIE PHOTOGRAPHY | ANDREWANDMELANIE.COM<br />

see their wedd<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> meet their entire dream team on realwedd<strong>in</strong>gsmag.com<br />

136 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


snapshots<br />

SHANNON & NICHOLAS<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER: PHOTOGRAPHY FOR A REASON | PHOTOGRAPHYFORAREASON.COM<br />

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REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 137


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

As the night closed <strong>and</strong> the last song<br />

played, our guests’ smiles still adorned<br />

their faces <strong>and</strong> boisterous chuckles<br />

echoed around us, Francisco drew me<br />

closer <strong>and</strong> whispered, ‘this has been the<br />

best day.’ With a sigh of agreement, I<br />

burrowed my cheek <strong>in</strong>to his shoulder <strong>and</strong><br />

delighted <strong>in</strong> the last few moments we had<br />

of this special day.<br />

—Am<strong>and</strong>a<br />

AMANDA<br />

& FRANCISCO<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

JENNIFER CLAPP FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 139


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

<strong>The</strong> love story between<br />

Francisco <strong>and</strong> Am<strong>and</strong>a<br />

started almost like a romantic<br />

comedy: they met<br />

when Francisco teased<br />

Am<strong>and</strong>a about her<br />

“W<strong>here</strong>’s Waldo-”esque<br />

striped shirt <strong>in</strong> their high<br />

school chemistry class.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y later started dat<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>and</strong> sh<strong>are</strong>d their first “I<br />

love you” with each other<br />

as teens.<br />

However, unlike a<br />

romantic comedy, t<strong>here</strong><br />

was no plot twist or problem to<br />

overcome; the two dated for 11<br />

happy years before becom<strong>in</strong>g<br />

engaged <strong>in</strong> front of the massive<br />

Ferris wheel at the <strong>California</strong><br />

State Fair.<br />

<strong>The</strong> two held a traditional ceremony<br />

at Vizcaya <strong>Sacramento</strong>—a<br />

venue Am<strong>and</strong>a describes as a<br />

“unique f<strong>in</strong>d <strong>in</strong> the heart of <strong>Sacramento</strong>.” <strong>The</strong>y<br />

did add a unique element to the vows, however:<br />

a w<strong>in</strong>e box ceremony, <strong>in</strong> which the couple<br />

each placed letters to one another. “On our fifth<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g anniversary, we’ll open our w<strong>in</strong>e box<br />

<strong>and</strong> read our love letters <strong>and</strong> enjoy our wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

w<strong>in</strong>e,” she says.<br />

<strong>The</strong> reception <strong>in</strong>cluded a popular <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

tradition, too, pull<strong>in</strong>g from Francisco’s<br />

Mexican-American heritage: a garter toss set to<br />

“El Baile del Toro,” a dance <strong>in</strong> which the best man<br />

acts as a matador <strong>and</strong> the groom acts like a bull<br />

attempt<strong>in</strong>g to reach his bride. “We wanted our<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g to be a fusion of cultures. This is a fun<br />

dance!” says Francisco.<br />

Am<strong>and</strong>a spent much of her wedd<strong>in</strong>g plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

efforts on the décor <strong>in</strong> the reception venue,<br />

with a palette she describes as “light <strong>and</strong> airy<br />

with florals highlight<strong>in</strong>g every table.” <strong>The</strong>y both<br />

say, though, that <strong>in</strong> addition<br />

to focus<strong>in</strong>g on<br />

the aesthetic elements,<br />

food was also a big factor,<br />

from the late-night<br />

street tacos to the cake,<br />

with both apricot <strong>and</strong><br />

strawberry-citrus buttercream<br />

tiers.<br />

While it’s not unusual<br />

for couples to feel a little<br />

exhausted <strong>and</strong> overwhelmed<br />

after the wedd<strong>in</strong>g, Am<strong>and</strong>a <strong>and</strong><br />

Francisco say that’s not<br />

the case for them. “<strong>The</strong><br />

follow<strong>in</strong>g months were<br />

full of <strong>in</strong>fatuation,” says<br />

Francisco. “We could<br />

not get enough of<br />

each other <strong>in</strong> any capacity by constantly<br />

danc<strong>in</strong>g to our first dance<br />

song, review<strong>in</strong>g photos from our<br />

honeymoon <strong>and</strong> wedd<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>and</strong><br />

dr<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g the remnants of our wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

w<strong>in</strong>e.”<br />

<strong>The</strong>y both loved the celebration<br />

but, like many couples,<br />

wish they had slowed down<br />

a bit to enjoy it more. “<strong>The</strong><br />

months <strong>and</strong> weeks that lead up to your<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g go by <strong>in</strong> state of constant worry<br />

<strong>and</strong> anticipation for the th<strong>in</strong>gs that need<br />

to be done,” says Francisco. ”My advice<br />

is always to slow th<strong>in</strong>gs down as much as<br />

you can on your wedd<strong>in</strong>g day.” But he’s<br />

will<strong>in</strong>g to admit that’s not always possible.<br />

“As they say though, time flies by<br />

when you’re hav<strong>in</strong>g fun!” OO—Suzie Dundas<br />

140 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


And, just as you did when you were<br />

16, you immediately go <strong>in</strong> to plant a kiss<br />

on her because she blows you away with<br />

her beauty.<br />

— Francisco on see<strong>in</strong>g his bride at their first look<br />

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AMANDA & FRANCISCO’S<br />

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> VISIT OUR WEBSITE REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM FOR A<br />

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REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 141


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

TANCY & PAUL<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOLITA VASQUEZ PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

For Tancy <strong>and</strong> Paul, their wedd<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong><br />

their relationship is <strong>all</strong> about mean<strong>in</strong>gful<br />

connections. For starters, the two <strong>are</strong><br />

comb<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g their last names, with an “M”<br />

from Tancy’s <strong>and</strong> the “ill” from Paul’s. <strong>The</strong><br />

duo held their wedd<strong>in</strong>g on September 16th<br />

because it’s the <strong>are</strong>a code for <strong>Sacramento</strong>,<br />

the town they now both c<strong>all</strong> home after<br />

each mov<strong>in</strong>g several times before meet<strong>in</strong>g. And they held<br />

their reception at <strong>The</strong> Waffle Experience, one of the first<br />

places they went out together <strong>and</strong> one of their favorite<br />

places to eat. Even their cat is named Waffles, add<strong>in</strong>g yet<br />

another mean<strong>in</strong>gful connection to the joyful day.<br />

Tancy describes herself as a planner while they both<br />

agree Paul is far more spontaneous, which probably<br />

expla<strong>in</strong>s the unplanned proposal. “<strong>The</strong> longer I carried<br />

the r<strong>in</strong>g, the more it stressed me out. After hold<strong>in</strong>g on<br />

to it for a couple months I was ready to throw that r<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>in</strong>to the pit of Mount Doom.” says Paul. Eventu<strong>all</strong>y, he<br />

decided to propose spur-of-the-moment on a camp<strong>in</strong>g<br />

trip, suggest<strong>in</strong>g that the two go for a walk next to a sm<strong>all</strong><br />

stream. “I was warm by the fire <strong>and</strong> almost said ‘no!’” says<br />

Tancy. Fortunately, the proposal went off without a hitch,<br />

<strong>and</strong> the two decided to offici<strong>all</strong>y tie the knot.<br />

<strong>The</strong> kept the ceremony cozy <strong>and</strong> sm<strong>all</strong> at Gold<br />

Hill Gardens, <strong>and</strong> were fortunate enough to use <strong>all</strong> the<br />

flowers <strong>and</strong> décor from a wedd<strong>in</strong>g the day before. <strong>The</strong><br />

celebration then moved to the waffle restaurant; a location<br />

Paul says they choose because<br />

they wanted to create a low-key <strong>and</strong><br />

fun atmosp<strong>here</strong>. “We wanted someth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

that felt uniquely us—not too stuffy or<br />

formal,” he says. <strong>The</strong>y opted to have<br />

guests choose one of two options off the<br />

st<strong>and</strong>ard menu, paired with a h<strong>and</strong>ful<br />

of sides. But the real treat was dessert.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y decided aga<strong>in</strong>st hav<strong>in</strong>g a cake (“We skipped cake—<br />

it just wasn’t us,” says Paul) <strong>and</strong> <strong>in</strong>stead treated their<br />

guests to a build-your-own-waffle bar. Guests selected<br />

m<strong>in</strong>i waffles decked out with everyth<strong>in</strong>g from apple<br />

compote to salted espresso caramel to c<strong>and</strong>ied walnuts<br />

<strong>and</strong> chocolate sauce.<br />

Though Tancy doesn’t describe herself as anyth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

close to “girly,” she says that one of her favorite wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

day details was her dress, along with her h<strong>and</strong>made<br />

flower-<strong>and</strong>-freshwater-pearl crown. For Paul, he thought<br />

the wedd<strong>in</strong>g was perfect <strong>and</strong> had a blast the entire time,<br />

which is why one of his favorite photos from the wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

is one w<strong>here</strong> both he <strong>and</strong> Tancy look tired <strong>and</strong> defeated.<br />

”I like to pull it up <strong>and</strong> laugh at it,” he says. “I actu<strong>all</strong>y<br />

had a lot of fun, so it’s hilarious that we were mak<strong>in</strong>g<br />

that face.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> two wrapped up their laid-back celebration<br />

with a laid-back honeymoon <strong>in</strong> Half Moon Bay, tak<strong>in</strong>g<br />

walks, paddleboard<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> admir<strong>in</strong>g the tide pools<br />

along the stunn<strong>in</strong>g coastl<strong>in</strong>e. OO —Suzie Dundas<br />

142 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


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eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

TRACY & PER<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTINA CILIA PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Tracy <strong>and</strong> Per met 10 years ago through their church.<br />

What started out as friendship turned <strong>in</strong>to so much<br />

more. “We were friends for about three years prior to us<br />

becom<strong>in</strong>g a couple,” Tracy says. “When we blended our<br />

families together, life became very real. Between us, we<br />

had five children from the ages of 10 to 18. It was a lot of<br />

fun. I would say that brought us closer together as well<br />

as our family as a whole.”<br />

As they spent more time together, they realized they<br />

couldn’t deny their feel<strong>in</strong>gs any longer. “We were friends<br />

<strong>and</strong> our relationship grew over time,” she says. “One day,<br />

he said, ‘I’m <strong>in</strong> love with you.’ And I replied ‘I am <strong>in</strong> love<br />

with you too.’ From then on, we have been together.”<br />

With their relationship go<strong>in</strong>g great, Per was ready<br />

to propose. He took Tracy out to lunch at their favorite<br />

restaurant. It was a beautiful sunny day so they sat<br />

outside. After they f<strong>in</strong>ished their meal, Per got down on<br />

one knee <strong>and</strong> asked Tracy to marry him. “I jumped up<br />

<strong>and</strong> said, ‘We just got engaged!’ <strong>and</strong> everyone start<strong>in</strong>g<br />

cheer<strong>in</strong>g for us. It was a lot of fun,” she says.<br />

Tracy started plann<strong>in</strong>g right away, though the couple<br />

wanted to take their time with it as well. <strong>The</strong>y were engaged<br />

for about four years before they got married. “It<br />

is a lot to try <strong>and</strong> plan a wedd<strong>in</strong>g on your own <strong>and</strong> work<br />

full-time,” she says. “I planned my wedd<strong>in</strong>g myself <strong>and</strong><br />

ended up gett<strong>in</strong>g a day-of wedd<strong>in</strong>g planner. <strong>The</strong> wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

was spectacular!”<br />

See<strong>in</strong>g as they took their time, no detail was left<br />

untouched. “Everyth<strong>in</strong>g went exactly how I had planned<br />

it; the day could not have been any better,” she says. “I<br />

enjoyed see<strong>in</strong>g my vision come to life. It was so fulfill<strong>in</strong>g<br />

after <strong>all</strong> the hard work to see it turn out exactly how I had<br />

planned.” <strong>The</strong>y both envisioned the wedd<strong>in</strong>g hav<strong>in</strong>g a<br />

classic <strong>and</strong> elegant look <strong>and</strong> feel. “It was an amaz<strong>in</strong>g day<br />

<strong>and</strong> one of the best days of my life,” she says.<br />

Look<strong>in</strong>g back on the special day, both Tracy <strong>and</strong> Per<br />

th<strong>in</strong>k back to the moment when she walked down the<br />

aisle. “As I was walk<strong>in</strong>g down the aisle <strong>and</strong> I saw Per, I<br />

couldn’t believe we were f<strong>in</strong><strong>all</strong>y gett<strong>in</strong>g married after<br />

<strong>all</strong> this time <strong>and</strong> I was so happy,” she says. Per felt it was<br />

the best possible dream come true. “When I saw Tracy<br />

walk down the aisle, I could not believe how beautiful she<br />

looked. I felt so lucky to have her <strong>in</strong> my life.” OO<br />

<br />

—Kourtney Jason<br />

144 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


I enjoyed see<strong>in</strong>g my vision come to life.<br />

It was so fulfill<strong>in</strong>g after <strong>all</strong> the hard work to see<br />

it turn out exactly how I had planned.<br />

— Tracy<br />

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REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 145


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

SARAH & CONNOR<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS MORAIRTY PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Sarah met Connor dur<strong>in</strong>g her freshman year at Butte<br />

College. “I had been recruited to play volleyb<strong>all</strong> t<strong>here</strong>, <strong>and</strong><br />

Connor had transferred to Chico State from the University<br />

of Reno,” says Sarah, “but not <strong>all</strong> of his courses transferred<br />

so he got ‘stuck’ <strong>in</strong> account<strong>in</strong>g with me.” <strong>The</strong> pair<br />

was placed together <strong>in</strong> a group project, <strong>and</strong> Conner was<br />

able to get her number. As Sarah says, “the rest is history.”<br />

In 2016, the couple took an annual pilgrimage to<br />

Disneyl<strong>and</strong>. Sarah is a huge Disney fan, <strong>and</strong> one of the<br />

couple’s first trips together was to the theme park. “He’s<br />

not a die-hard like me,” she notes about Connor, “so<br />

norm<strong>all</strong>y I have to bug him to wake up early with me to<br />

do the early entry, but he was up <strong>and</strong> about very early<br />

this particular trip.” She expla<strong>in</strong>s that they first usu<strong>all</strong>y<br />

get a FastPass to Indiana Jones, their favorite ride, but on<br />

this occasion he <strong>in</strong>sisted on tak<strong>in</strong>g pictures by the castle<br />

before it got too busy. “As soon as we got <strong>in</strong> front of the<br />

castle, he got down on one knee,” she remembers. “It<br />

was <strong>all</strong> a blur after that, neither of us remember what we<br />

said to one another, but I obviously said ‘yes.’ <strong>The</strong> most<br />

amaz<strong>in</strong>g part was that a photographer captured <strong>all</strong> of<br />

it. <strong>The</strong> photographer proceeded to take us around the<br />

park to do an impromptu photo shoot <strong>and</strong> it was a blast.”<br />

Sarah, a bridal hairstylist, had the White Ranch <strong>in</strong><br />

Chico on her radar as a potential wedd<strong>in</strong>g location. “I had<br />

done wedd<strong>in</strong>gs t<strong>here</strong> <strong>in</strong> the past, <strong>and</strong> I just fell <strong>in</strong> love with<br />

the venue.” With a two-year engagement, the couple had<br />

plenty of time to prep<strong>are</strong>. “You plan <strong>all</strong> of it out, but once<br />

you’re actu<strong>all</strong>y t<strong>here</strong>, it becomes so much more real <strong>and</strong><br />

excit<strong>in</strong>g,” Sarah says.<br />

Flowers <strong>are</strong> the bride’s favorite part of the wedd<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

so she especi<strong>all</strong>y enjoyed pick<strong>in</strong>g her flowers <strong>and</strong> centerpieces.<br />

“I loved <strong>all</strong> of our arrangements—from the big<br />

pieces on the w<strong>in</strong>e barrels, to my bouquet, the eucalyptus<br />

garl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> the floral arrangement on the arbor w<strong>here</strong><br />

our ceremony took place,” she says.<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple exchanged vows <strong>in</strong> front of a weep<strong>in</strong>g<br />

willow <strong>and</strong> freshwater pond. “It’s still one of my favorite<br />

places, as it is just so beautiful,” sh<strong>are</strong>s Sarah. “<strong>The</strong> aisle<br />

was l<strong>in</strong>ed with shepherd’s hooks <strong>and</strong> floral arrangements<br />

as well as two huge floral pieces on w<strong>in</strong>e barrels on either<br />

side; it was just so pretty <strong>and</strong> t<strong>here</strong> were flowers everyw<strong>here</strong><br />

just like I wanted.”<br />

One of Sarah’s most memorable moments of the<br />

even<strong>in</strong>g was her father-daughter dance. “We both cried<br />

<strong>and</strong> had a very real <strong>and</strong> c<strong>and</strong>id conversation while we<br />

danced,” she remembers. For a bit of humor, the bride<br />

“iced” her groom with a Smirnoff Ice strapped to her leg<br />

when he went <strong>in</strong> for her garter. “He got that <strong>in</strong>stead<br />

<strong>and</strong> had to throw it back before we could proceed,”<br />

she laughs. “It has been an ongo<strong>in</strong>g joke with <strong>all</strong><br />

of his friends to ice each other, so I thought it was<br />

only fitt<strong>in</strong>g.”<br />

As they exited the reception, the newlyweds were<br />

given a send off <strong>in</strong> a cloud of bubbles by their guests<br />

<strong>and</strong> drove away <strong>in</strong> Sarah’s dad’s green 55 Chevy Baja<br />

race truck. “This was Connor’s dream<br />

come true.” OO—Darren Elms<br />

146 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


St<strong>and</strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the old barn with<br />

my dad gett<strong>in</strong>g ready to walk down the<br />

aisle was so surreal. I spent my whole<br />

life wait<strong>in</strong>g for this <strong>and</strong> t<strong>here</strong> it was<br />

right outside the door. It was so crazy<br />

<strong>and</strong> magical.<br />

— Sarah<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Chris Morairty Photography<br />

916-247-8084 | chrismorairtyphotography.com<br />

See ad on page 24<br />

TURN TO PAGE 200 FOR MORE OF<br />

SARAH & CONNOR’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

> VISIT OUR WEBSITE REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM<br />

FOR A FULL LIST OF SARAH & CONNOR’S<br />

WEDDING PROFESSIONALS ALONG WITH MORE DETAILS,<br />

PHOTOS AND TIPS FROM THE COUPLE.<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 147


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

HEIDI & JAMES-PHILLIP<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TEMPLE PHOTOGRAPHY & PHOTO BOOTH<br />

Heidi <strong>and</strong> James met when James <strong>and</strong> his younger<br />

brother moved <strong>in</strong>to a rental property Heidi owned. <strong>The</strong>y<br />

hit it off <strong>and</strong> dated for two <strong>and</strong> a half years before gett<strong>in</strong>g<br />

engaged at Grace Patriot W<strong>in</strong>es <strong>in</strong> Cam<strong>in</strong>o, w<strong>here</strong> James<br />

proposed at an outside table surrounded by Heidi’s favorite<br />

treats: desserts <strong>and</strong> w<strong>in</strong>e. <strong>The</strong>y stopped by his mom’s<br />

house to announce the news, <strong>and</strong>, to Heidi’s surprise,<br />

James had arranged an engagement party. “It was an<br />

absolute shock <strong>and</strong> so much fun,” she says. “<strong>The</strong>re were<br />

a lot of happy tears <strong>and</strong> excitement.”<br />

Nearly six months later, they married <strong>in</strong> an outside<br />

ceremony at Strawberry Lodge <strong>in</strong> Kyburz. <strong>The</strong>y chose a<br />

rustic yet contemporary theme featur<strong>in</strong>g white, cream<br />

<strong>and</strong> pops of w<strong>in</strong>e red <strong>and</strong> cobalt blue. <strong>The</strong> décor featured<br />

white chairs, rustic lanterns <strong>and</strong> a wood gazebo. A pastor<br />

officiated the sm<strong>all</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>in</strong>timate ceremony w<strong>here</strong> Heidi<br />

<strong>and</strong> James added their own vows.<br />

<strong>The</strong> outdoor reception at Strawberry Lodge <strong>in</strong>cluded<br />

d<strong>in</strong>ner, dr<strong>in</strong>ks, danc<strong>in</strong>g, str<strong>in</strong>g lights <strong>and</strong> a late-night<br />

snack. <strong>The</strong> fun cont<strong>in</strong>ued <strong>all</strong> weekend long. “We enjoyed<br />

hang<strong>in</strong>g out with family on Friday night <strong>and</strong> Saturday<br />

morn<strong>in</strong>g to set up,” says Heidi. “<strong>The</strong> wedd<strong>in</strong>g Saturday<br />

went <strong>all</strong> through the night. And then breakfast with everyone<br />

on Sunday morn<strong>in</strong>g! It was amaz<strong>in</strong>g gett<strong>in</strong>g to know<br />

everyone better <strong>and</strong> bond as a family but ma<strong>in</strong>ly to not<br />

be rushed to set up <strong>and</strong> take down with<strong>in</strong> the same day.”<br />

Heidi loved the photo w<strong>all</strong> James made out of rustic<br />

wood. “It was amaz<strong>in</strong>g to see it brought to<br />

life <strong>and</strong> it was so fun to see everyone tak<strong>in</strong>g<br />

photos <strong>in</strong> front of it for us <strong>and</strong> to post on<br />

their social media,” says Heidi, expla<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g<br />

they plan to display it at their home, outside<br />

the d<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g room w<strong>in</strong>dow so they can be<br />

rem<strong>in</strong>ded of their wedd<strong>in</strong>g day.<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple enjoyed shoot<strong>in</strong>g photos,<br />

especi<strong>all</strong>y by an old barn. “We were hav<strong>in</strong>g<br />

so much fun be<strong>in</strong>g goofy <strong>and</strong> I got to put<br />

Heidi over my shoulder,” James says. “It<br />

was just a surreal feel<strong>in</strong>g be<strong>in</strong>g with my<br />

bride <strong>in</strong> her wedd<strong>in</strong>g dress know<strong>in</strong>g this day had f<strong>in</strong><strong>all</strong>y<br />

come for us both.”<br />

Heidi was surprised <strong>and</strong> happy that everyth<strong>in</strong>g came<br />

together as planned. “Once we saw it <strong>all</strong> come together<br />

<strong>and</strong> everyone enjoy<strong>in</strong>g themselves, it was an <strong>in</strong>credible<br />

feel<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> was amaz<strong>in</strong>g to see my P<strong>in</strong>terest board<br />

brought to life,” she says. “Everyth<strong>in</strong>g we did, <strong>and</strong> everyth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

James built, was exactly what we envisioned.”OO<br />

—Kristen Castillo<br />

148 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


Our wedd<strong>in</strong>g was<br />

amaz<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>and</strong> I loved<br />

hav<strong>in</strong>g Heidi by my side<br />

the entire time.<br />

—James<br />

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REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 149<br />

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eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

CHELSEA &<br />

CHRISTOPHER<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

RANDY JACKSON AND<br />

ROCHELLE WILHELMS WITH<br />

ROCHELLE WILHELMS PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Although Chelsea <strong>and</strong> Chris were both born<br />

<strong>and</strong> raised <strong>in</strong> Vacaville, they attended separate<br />

high schools <strong>and</strong> didn’t meet until after college.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y were both hang<strong>in</strong>g out at the local In-N-Out<br />

when they first connected. “It wasn’t until five<br />

months later that I mustered up the courage to<br />

message her on Facebook because I hadn’t seen<br />

her s<strong>in</strong>ce,” says Chris. “From t<strong>here</strong> it was history!”<br />

One of the first places the pair frequented<br />

while they got to know each other was Mount<br />

Vaca, loc<strong>all</strong>y known as “Top of the World.” <strong>The</strong><br />

day he proposed, Chris told Chelsea he wanted<br />

to go t<strong>here</strong> to take photos of her s<strong>in</strong>ce he got a<br />

new camera <strong>and</strong> wanted to test it out. “Unbeknownst<br />

to her, I had my best friends already up<br />

on the rock that we had watched the sunset on<br />

three years before, lay<strong>in</strong>g out a bed of rose petals<br />

blanket<strong>in</strong>g the rock for me to propose on,”<br />

he sh<strong>are</strong>s. “After I proposed I gat<strong>here</strong>d <strong>all</strong> of our<br />

closest family <strong>and</strong> friends to celebrate.”<br />

One of the couple’s first priorities when<br />

plann<strong>in</strong>g the wedd<strong>in</strong>g was secur<strong>in</strong>g an amaz<strong>in</strong>g<br />

photographer <strong>and</strong> videographer to capture the<br />

day. “<strong>The</strong> choice was easy when it came to book<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Rochelle Wilhelms <strong>and</strong> her second shooter,<br />

R<strong>and</strong>y Jackson, <strong>and</strong> Leon Films <strong>and</strong> Classic City<br />

Films,” says Chris. “Once we booked our venue<br />

<strong>and</strong> had the photographer <strong>and</strong> videographer<br />

locked <strong>in</strong>, we felt much more at<br />

ease with everyth<strong>in</strong>g else we had<br />

to accomplish for our wedd<strong>in</strong>g.”<br />

In addition to support from the<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g venue, they hired Aubrey<br />

from Allur<strong>in</strong>g Events to help<br />

with advice <strong>and</strong> contracts.<br />

<strong>The</strong> ceremony was officiated<br />

by a longtime friend of Chris’s p<strong>are</strong>nts, who<br />

had been an <strong>in</strong>tegral part of his grow<strong>in</strong>g up. “He<br />

was someone that always believed <strong>in</strong> me <strong>and</strong><br />

pushed me to chase after my dreams,” the groom<br />

says. “We sh<strong>are</strong>d our own vows <strong>and</strong> both got<br />

emotional while do<strong>in</strong>g so. <strong>The</strong>re’s someth<strong>in</strong>g so<br />

special about committ<strong>in</strong>g your life to someone <strong>in</strong><br />

front of <strong>all</strong> your friends <strong>and</strong> family.”<br />

Both the ceremony <strong>and</strong> reception took<br />

place at the same location, with the site of the<br />

vows turn<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to a dance floor for the reception.<br />

“Someth<strong>in</strong>g we loved about our venue<br />

was the light<strong>in</strong>g created to give the reception a<br />

dreamy atmosp<strong>here</strong>,” Chris says. “We had str<strong>in</strong>g<br />

lights hang<strong>in</strong>g between the trees <strong>and</strong> cascad<strong>in</strong>g<br />

around the dance floor, which looked absolutely<br />

magical that night.”<br />

But the newlyweds agree that shar<strong>in</strong>g vows<br />

were surely the highlight of the day. Says Chelsea,<br />

”It was a unique moment that we prep<strong>are</strong>d for<br />

through our years of dat<strong>in</strong>g, putt<strong>in</strong>g our thoughts<br />

<strong>in</strong>to words <strong>and</strong> shar<strong>in</strong>g our vision <strong>and</strong> commitments<br />

for the future with each other.” OO<br />

<br />

—Darren Elms<br />

150 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


We sh<strong>are</strong>d our own vows <strong>and</strong> both got<br />

emotional while do<strong>in</strong>g so. <strong>The</strong>re’s someth<strong>in</strong>g so<br />

special about commit<strong>in</strong>g your life to someone <strong>in</strong><br />

front of <strong>all</strong> your friends <strong>and</strong> family.<br />

—Chris<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong> Masonic Temple<br />

XSIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO / XSIGHTUSA.COM<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Rochelle Wilhelms Photography<br />

707-681-5661 | rochellewilhelms.com<br />

See ad on page 36<br />

CAKE AND CUPCAKES Sugar Bits Custom Cakes<br />

916-936-BITS (2487) | sugarbitscc.com<br />

See ad on page 233<br />

TURN TO PAGE 200 FOR MORE OF CHELSEA &<br />

CHRIS’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

We can easily accommodate up to 500 guests.<br />

Please schedule an appo<strong>in</strong>tment to view the rooms <strong>in</strong> person,<br />

by c<strong>all</strong><strong>in</strong>g us at (916) 443-5058<br />

> VISIT OUR WEBSITE REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM FOR A<br />

FULL LIST OF CHELSEA & CHRIS’S WEDDING<br />

PROFESSIONALS ALONG WITH MORE DETAILS,<br />

PHOTOS AND TIPS FROM THE COUPLE.<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 151<br />

Reservations <strong>and</strong> Information: (916) 443-5058<br />

1123 J Street, <strong>Sacramento</strong>, CA 95814<br />

www.sacramentomasonictemple.org


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

ASHLEY &<br />

SAMUEL<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

JULIA CROTEAU PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Ash <strong>and</strong> Sam met through mutual<br />

friends on a river float down<br />

the Mokelumne River. “A friend<br />

<strong>and</strong> I fell beh<strong>in</strong>d, <strong>and</strong> Sam held<br />

on to my foot <strong>and</strong> pulled me until<br />

the end of the float,” she remembers.<br />

“We talked the entire time.”<br />

A few years later, they would get<br />

engaged <strong>in</strong> Lake <strong>Tahoe</strong> while<br />

tak<strong>in</strong>g a scenic w<strong>in</strong>ter walk.<br />

<strong>The</strong> pair had very few expectations for their<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g. “We just wanted everyone to have fun,<br />

even kids,” Ash says. “Our wedd<strong>in</strong>g was very<br />

kid-friendly.” But they did have one request on<br />

dessert. “We knew we wanted pie!”<br />

Ash was thankful for the help of her “awesome”<br />

maid of honor, Desiree. “Our favorite<br />

time was probably the food tast<strong>in</strong>gs,” the bride<br />

sh<strong>are</strong>s. “<strong>The</strong> food was amaz<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> the cakes<br />

<strong>and</strong> pies were delicious.<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple exchanged vows dur<strong>in</strong>g a sunlit<br />

afternoon <strong>in</strong> the company of their closest friends<br />

<strong>and</strong> family. “Our arch was unique,” Ash says. “We<br />

stood under two ladders that were decorated<br />

with succulents <strong>and</strong> two special knobs, one of<br />

Wonder Woman <strong>and</strong> one of Batman. <strong>The</strong>y were<br />

sm<strong>all</strong> <strong>and</strong> we doubt anyone saw them but we<br />

knew they were t<strong>here</strong>.” <strong>The</strong> bride also wore glittery<br />

Wonder Woman wedges<br />

<strong>and</strong> Sam sported customized<br />

Converse with Batman symbols<br />

<strong>and</strong> colors.<br />

<strong>The</strong> outdoor ceremony surrounded<br />

guests with founta<strong>in</strong>s,<br />

sunflower <strong>and</strong> rose gardens <strong>and</strong><br />

str<strong>in</strong>gs of lights. <strong>The</strong> reception<br />

that followed was held under a<br />

draped tent lit by ch<strong>and</strong>eliers.<br />

“Needless to say, it was breathtak<strong>in</strong>g,” Ash says.<br />

But the most memorable moment for the couple<br />

was the cake cutt<strong>in</strong>g. “I did a smash <strong>and</strong> run,”<br />

she laughs. “Sam, of course, got me back, but at<br />

the end of the night when our friends smashed<br />

another piece <strong>in</strong> his face, it was epic!” <strong>The</strong> cake<br />

also featured their signature superheroes as<br />

the toppers.<br />

Ash’s favorite part of the day was when the<br />

party started. “<strong>The</strong> deed was done <strong>and</strong> it was<br />

time for shots <strong>and</strong> celebration,”<br />

she says. But Sam rem<strong>in</strong>isces<br />

about the end of the<br />

reception. “All of our friends<br />

were danc<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> a circle together,”<br />

the groom rec<strong>all</strong>s<br />

fondly. “Just like old times.”<br />

OO —Darren Elms<br />

152 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


We stood under two ladders that were decorated<br />

with succulents <strong>and</strong> two special knobs, one of Wonder<br />

Woman <strong>and</strong> one of Batman. <strong>The</strong>y were sm<strong>all</strong> <strong>and</strong> we doubt<br />

anyone saw them but we knew they were t<strong>here</strong>.<br />

—Ash<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Julia Croteau Photography<br />

530-295-4850 | 530-953-9848 | juliacroteauphotography.com<br />

See ad on page 133<br />

PHOTO BOOTH Temple Photography & Photo Booth<br />

916-856-2543 | ritatemplephotography.com | See ad on page 235<br />

TURN TO PAGE 200 FOR MORE OF ASH & SAM’S<br />

WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

> VISIT OUR WEBSITE REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM FOR A FULL LIST OF<br />

ASH & SAM’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS ALONG WITH MORE DETAILS,<br />

PHOTOS AND TIPS FROM THE COUPLE.<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 153


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

LAKEISHA &<br />

ALBERT<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

CHUCK ROBERTS PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Thanks to a matchmak<strong>in</strong>g mom, LaKeisha <strong>and</strong><br />

Al first met back <strong>in</strong> 2013. “My mom played cupid,<br />

<strong>and</strong> I still can’t believe it!” sh<strong>are</strong>s LaKeisha. “She<br />

expressed how this good-look<strong>in</strong>g s<strong>in</strong>gle guy was<br />

work<strong>in</strong>g at her job part-time.” After giv<strong>in</strong>g her<br />

mom permission to give him her number, the<br />

two connected <strong>and</strong> went on a first date. “We<br />

have been <strong>in</strong>separable ever s<strong>in</strong>ce,” she says. “Our<br />

sh<strong>are</strong>d love for God <strong>and</strong> family made me love<br />

him more <strong>and</strong> more each day!”<br />

A few years later, the couple spent Valent<strong>in</strong>e’s<br />

Day weekend together <strong>in</strong> San Francisco.<br />

After d<strong>in</strong>ner at Morton’s Steakhouse, Al suggested<br />

they go to <strong>The</strong> Lounge at <strong>The</strong> Ritz-Carlton<br />

for a nightcap. “I could tell someth<strong>in</strong>g was off<br />

with him that night,” rec<strong>all</strong>s LaKeisha. “He kept<br />

ask<strong>in</strong>g me over <strong>and</strong> over if I was hav<strong>in</strong>g a great<br />

time. My response was ‘Babe, of course I’m hav<strong>in</strong>g<br />

a great time.’” After cocktails <strong>and</strong> dessert, he<br />

excused himself for a moment. Upon his return<br />

he got down on one knee <strong>and</strong> asked for her h<strong>and</strong>.<br />

“I was truly surprised <strong>and</strong> overjoyed,” she says.<br />

With a two-year engagement, the couple<br />

enjoyed plenty of time to plan their ideal wedd<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

“We wanted our big day to be a celebration<br />

with our closest family <strong>and</strong> friends,” says<br />

the bride.<br />

LaKeisha applauds her planner Bel<strong>in</strong>da Cunn<strong>in</strong>gham<br />

of B-Com<strong>in</strong>g Event Plann<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> Decor<br />

for keep<strong>in</strong>g her on track. “I’m such a procrast<strong>in</strong>ator,<br />

so she re<strong>all</strong>y kept us on our toes <strong>and</strong> on<br />

schedule with everyth<strong>in</strong>g,” LaKeisha says. <strong>The</strong><br />

couple also loved their photographer, Mackenzie<br />

of Chuck Roberts Photography, “I can’t express<br />

how much Al <strong>and</strong> I love her work,” she adds. “She<br />

made our photos look like a fairy tale!”<br />

LaKeisha can only describe the ceremony<br />

at Capitol Plaza B<strong>all</strong>rooms as truly magical. “Al<br />

<strong>and</strong> I were blessed to have his gr<strong>and</strong>father, Pastor<br />

Erby Sr., marry us on our special day.” <strong>The</strong><br />

reception was held <strong>in</strong> the same venue, but on a<br />

different floor <strong>in</strong> <strong>The</strong> Silver B<strong>all</strong>room. “Once we<br />

stepped out of the elevator we were mesmerized<br />

with the colors <strong>and</strong> light<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>and</strong> the food was<br />

pretty amaz<strong>in</strong>g,” LaKeisha says. “Our wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

planner <strong>and</strong> her team truly did an amaz<strong>in</strong>g job<br />

decorat<strong>in</strong>g!”<br />

One of the most memorable moments of<br />

the even<strong>in</strong>g came from Al himself. “My father<br />

died from stomach cancer <strong>in</strong> 2015,” says<br />

the bride. “My mom, sister <strong>and</strong> I took it<br />

re<strong>all</strong>y hard when he passed. Dur<strong>in</strong>g the<br />

reception, Al surprised me with a slideshow<br />

of <strong>all</strong> the truly unforgettable moments<br />

with my dad. I cried like a baby,<br />

but that moment I will never forget; we<br />

re<strong>all</strong>y felt my dad’s spirit that night.” OO<br />

—Darren Elms<br />

154 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


Folsom Community Center<br />

Let Us Host Your Very Special Day!<br />

Our favorite part of the<br />

day was say<strong>in</strong>g I do!<br />

—the couple<br />

Our <strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> Amenities <strong>in</strong>clude:<br />

n Two b<strong>all</strong>rooms <strong>and</strong> open-air terrace; accommodations for up to 500 guests<br />

n Beautiful outdoor photo sett<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

n Elevated stage, A/V & light<strong>in</strong>g<br />

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THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

WEDDING PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER<br />

B-Com<strong>in</strong>g Event Plann<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> Decor<br />

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PHOTOGRAPHER<br />

Chuck Roberts Photography<br />

916-632-8941 | chuckrobertsphoto.com | See ad on page 234<br />

FLORAL DESIGNER<br />

Bouquet Florist & Gifts<br />

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Your travel adventure starts now!<br />

TURN TO PAGE 200 FOR MORE OF LAKEISHA & AL’S<br />

WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

> VISIT OUR WEBSITE REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM FOR A FULL LIST OF<br />

LAKEISHA & AL’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS ALONG<br />

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REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 155


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

HANNAH & DARREN<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

JENNIFER RAPOZA PHOTOGRAPHY & PHOTO BOOTHS<br />

Childhood sweethearts Hannah <strong>and</strong> Darren<br />

met <strong>in</strong> second grade when Darren transferred to<br />

her school. <strong>The</strong>y attended every class together<br />

through eighth grade. Years later, Darren proposed<br />

<strong>in</strong> June of 2018 on the top of the S<strong>and</strong>ia<br />

Mounta<strong>in</strong>s <strong>in</strong> New Mexico. Six months later, they<br />

married <strong>in</strong> a meadow <strong>in</strong> Twa<strong>in</strong> Harte.<br />

<strong>The</strong> ceremony was simple <strong>and</strong> straight to the<br />

po<strong>in</strong>t. “We just wanted everyth<strong>in</strong>g to be natural<br />

<strong>and</strong> subtle so that we could focus on our marriage<br />

celebration <strong>and</strong> the people who came to<br />

support us,” says Hannah, who chose slate blue as<br />

her color theme s<strong>in</strong>ce it’s calm<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> traditional.<br />

Before the wedd<strong>in</strong>g, Hannah had butterflies<br />

<strong>in</strong> her stomach but felt so much better when she<br />

saw her groom at the reveal. “I was so happy <strong>and</strong><br />

relieved when we f<strong>in</strong><strong>all</strong>y got to see each other,”<br />

she says. Darren says see<strong>in</strong>g Hannah was a “feel<strong>in</strong>g<br />

unlike anyth<strong>in</strong>g else. I quite liter<strong>all</strong>y was at a<br />

loss for words <strong>and</strong> couldn’t look at her enough.”<br />

<strong>The</strong>y held their reception <strong>in</strong> a barn that has<br />

special significance to the couple—grow<strong>in</strong>g up,<br />

they both often passed the barn as it was be<strong>in</strong>g<br />

built. “It would be Darren’s dream house <strong>and</strong> our<br />

dream to have a cab<strong>in</strong> like that when we grow<br />

old,” says Hannah. “It just fit us, we grew up by<br />

it, <strong>and</strong> it was gorgeous just like our relationship.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> 240 guests d<strong>in</strong>ed on a pasta bar, tri-tip,<br />

chicken <strong>and</strong> s’mores. <strong>The</strong>ir rustic<strong>all</strong>y decorated<br />

cake featured three tiers with buttermilk frost<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

It was completed with flowers <strong>and</strong> a personalized<br />

wood burned topper.<br />

For their first dance, Hannah <strong>and</strong> Darren<br />

danced to a comb<strong>in</strong>ation of Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect”<br />

<strong>and</strong> Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help <strong>F<strong>all</strong></strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />

Love.” That second song was a nod to the bride’s<br />

gr<strong>and</strong>p<strong>are</strong>nts who often played that song <strong>in</strong> their<br />

home <strong>and</strong> at their 50th wedd<strong>in</strong>g anniversary.<br />

Everyone was danc<strong>in</strong>g that night, especi<strong>all</strong>y the<br />

groom. “I am typic<strong>all</strong>y not a danc<strong>in</strong>g fella but it<br />

sure was a good time to get out t<strong>here</strong> with <strong>all</strong> of<br />

our friends <strong>and</strong> family,” says Darren.<br />

Despite be<strong>in</strong>g swept up with plann<strong>in</strong>g before<br />

the wedd<strong>in</strong>g, Hannah wasn’t overwhelmed on the<br />

big day. “I was surprised about how much I did<br />

not c<strong>are</strong> about the details,” she<br />

says, not<strong>in</strong>g that dur<strong>in</strong>g plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

she was focused on every detail,<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g plann<strong>in</strong>g every song.<br />

“On the wedd<strong>in</strong>g day I did not<br />

hear a s<strong>in</strong>gle song that played; I<br />

was too busy enjoy<strong>in</strong>g my wedd<strong>in</strong>g.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple wishes the day<br />

could have lasted longer. “You<br />

have to cont<strong>in</strong>u<strong>all</strong>y stop <strong>and</strong><br />

take mental pictures of what<br />

is happen<strong>in</strong>g because it only<br />

happens once <strong>in</strong> your life,”<br />

says Darren. OO— Kristen Castillo<br />

156 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


My favorite wedd<strong>in</strong>g day moment was sitt<strong>in</strong>g<br />

at the head table with Hannah look<strong>in</strong>g out <strong>and</strong> see<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>all</strong> the friends <strong>and</strong> family that had traveled across the<br />

nation to support us on our special day.<br />

—Darren<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER<br />

Jennifer Rapoza Photography & Photo Booths<br />

209-613-4476 | jenniferrapozaphotography.com | See ad on page 10<br />

TURN TO PAGE 200 FOR MORE OF<br />

HANNAH & DARREN’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

> VISIT OUR WEBSITE REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM FOR A FULL LIST OF<br />

HANNAH & DARREN’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS ALONG WITH<br />

MORE DETAILS, PHOTOS AND TIPS FROM THE COUPLE.<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 157


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

CATHY & JEFF<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEAGAN LUCY PHOTOGRAPHERS<br />

Cathy <strong>and</strong> Jeff met at a dessert bar <strong>in</strong> Seattle.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y dated for five years. <strong>The</strong>n came the proposal:<br />

“He surprised me at home by propos<strong>in</strong>g<br />

one day,” says Cathy. “He even had my corgi<br />

deliver the r<strong>in</strong>g.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple orig<strong>in</strong><strong>all</strong>y wanted to get married<br />

<strong>in</strong> Italy but due to the logistics of gett<strong>in</strong>g<br />

their guests t<strong>here</strong>, they decided to get married<br />

closer to home. <strong>The</strong>y chose to say “I Do” at Clos<br />

LaChance V<strong>in</strong>eyards because the w<strong>in</strong>ery immediately<br />

rem<strong>in</strong>ded them of a Tuscan villa <strong>and</strong><br />

evoked the k<strong>in</strong>d of ambiance they dreamed<br />

about. <strong>The</strong> couple chose a soft <strong>and</strong> romantic<br />

palette of light p<strong>in</strong>k, peach <strong>and</strong> cream to complement<br />

the w<strong>in</strong>ery’s rustic elegance. “We had a<br />

simple <strong>and</strong> <strong>in</strong>timate ceremony, which was what<br />

we both had wanted,” she says. “We had a str<strong>in</strong>g<br />

trio play<strong>in</strong>g some of our favorite songs <strong>and</strong> we<br />

had a mutual friend officiat<strong>in</strong>g so it was a very<br />

personal experience.”<br />

<strong>Wedd<strong>in</strong>g</strong> plann<strong>in</strong>g was tough enough but<br />

the couple had even more details to plan. “<strong>The</strong><br />

biggest ch<strong>all</strong>enge was try<strong>in</strong>g to buy a house<br />

the week before our wedd<strong>in</strong>g, which was a bad<br />

idea,” says Jeff. Yet, Cathy was surprised she was<br />

able to stay calm on the big day. “I was expect<strong>in</strong>g<br />

to be much more nervous but once I got<br />

to the w<strong>in</strong>ery, everyth<strong>in</strong>g just felt like it was f<strong>in</strong><strong>all</strong>y<br />

com<strong>in</strong>g together.”<br />

Cathy<br />

fondly remembers<br />

meet<strong>in</strong>g Jeff under a big tree among the<br />

grapev<strong>in</strong>es before the ceremony. “I just felt so<br />

excited to see him <strong>and</strong> to start our lives together<br />

as a married couple,” she says. “It was almost<br />

like meet<strong>in</strong>g for the first time aga<strong>in</strong>.” Jeff loved<br />

listen<strong>in</strong>g to Cathy read her vows. “I felt so lucky<br />

to be with her,” he says.<br />

<strong>The</strong> guest list was <strong>in</strong>timate with 40 attendees,<br />

<strong>and</strong> the couple passed on hav<strong>in</strong>g a bridal<br />

party, except for the bride’s baby niece who<br />

served as flower girl. <strong>The</strong>y also skipped other<br />

traditions. “I th<strong>in</strong>k we’re both non-traditional<br />

people so we <strong>in</strong>tention<strong>all</strong>y left out <strong>all</strong> the Ch<strong>in</strong>ese<br />

traditions from my side,” says Cathy.<br />

<strong>The</strong> reception was held outside on the terrace.<br />

<strong>The</strong> newlyweds wanted an outdoor reception<br />

s<strong>in</strong>ce they love d<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g al fresco. Plus,<br />

they didn’t want their guests to have to travel<br />

to another location. “It was magical see<strong>in</strong>g our<br />

reception tables set up with our personal photos<br />

<strong>and</strong> the flowers, which looked even better than I<br />

envisioned,” says Cathy.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re were some notable moments dur<strong>in</strong>g<br />

their wedd<strong>in</strong>g day <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g<br />

watch<strong>in</strong>g Jeff’s father “dance<br />

for the first time s<strong>in</strong>ce 1980”<br />

<strong>and</strong> Cathy see<strong>in</strong>g her husb<strong>and</strong><br />

do the worm. “I didn’t<br />

know he could even move<br />

like that,” she says. OO<br />

<br />

—Kristen Castillo<br />

158 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


I just felt so excited to<br />

see him <strong>and</strong> to start our lives<br />

together as a married couple. It<br />

was almost like meet<strong>in</strong>g for the<br />

first time aga<strong>in</strong>.<br />

— Cathy<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER<br />

Meagan Lucy Photographers<br />

916-484-1164 | meaganlucy.com/wedd<strong>in</strong>g | See ad on page 18<br />

TURN TO PAGE 200 FOR MORE OF<br />

CATHY & JEFF’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

> VISIT OUR WEBSITE REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM FOR A FULL LIST OF<br />

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MORE DETAILS, PHOTOS AND TIPS FROM THE COUPLE.<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 159<br />

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eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

TARIN & MATT<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JB WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Sparks, Nevada, born <strong>and</strong> raised, Tar<strong>in</strong> <strong>and</strong> Matt have<br />

had mutual friends s<strong>in</strong>ce middle school, but it was when<br />

they bumped <strong>in</strong>to each other at a country concert at the<br />

University of Nevada <strong>in</strong> Reno that they hit it off. After<br />

four years of dat<strong>in</strong>g, along came a proposal—complete<br />

with c<strong>and</strong>les, personalized footb<strong>all</strong> jerseys, “Me <strong>and</strong> You”<br />

by Kenny Chesney, a custom r<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>and</strong> photographer to<br />

capture the sweet moment. Michael remembers th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

”What better way to start our lives together than on one<br />

of the greatest days of the year: NFL open<strong>in</strong>g day?”<br />

It was from that day on that the couple began plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

their wedd<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>and</strong> Tar<strong>in</strong>, an excellent planner with<br />

a knack for organiz<strong>in</strong>g, took on the ch<strong>all</strong>enge. “<strong>The</strong> plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

process went very easy as I knew what I was look<strong>in</strong>g<br />

for; <strong>and</strong> Matt <strong>and</strong> I communicated about everyth<strong>in</strong>g we<br />

wanted. <strong>The</strong> most difficult parts were f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g the venue<br />

<strong>and</strong> f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g my dress,” Tar<strong>in</strong> expla<strong>in</strong>s.<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple decided to have their wedd<strong>in</strong>g at the Tannenbaum<br />

Events Center with an outdoor, m<strong>in</strong>imal theme<br />

<strong>and</strong> a dance floor big enough for everyone to break it<br />

down! Just as they wanted, everyone enjoyed the reception<br />

while eat<strong>in</strong>g, laugh<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> tak<strong>in</strong>g pictures, especi<strong>all</strong>y<br />

when it came to the photo booth. “We loved hav<strong>in</strong>g our<br />

photo booth <strong>and</strong> jump<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to pictures to surprise our<br />

guests, <strong>and</strong> now be<strong>in</strong>g able to look back at those pictures<br />

to see our guests hav<strong>in</strong>g a blast,” remembers Tar<strong>in</strong>.<br />

And don’t forget the four-tiered cake that was<br />

packed with scrumptious flavors, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g chocolate<br />

raspberry <strong>and</strong> red velvet. “Shov<strong>in</strong>g cake <strong>in</strong> Tar<strong>in</strong>’s face<br />

was epic!” says Matt. “We both were committed to not<br />

be<strong>in</strong>g the couple to eat it off each other’s h<strong>and</strong>s.”<br />

Everyth<strong>in</strong>g—from Tar<strong>in</strong> walk<strong>in</strong>g down the aisle <strong>and</strong><br />

the cake smash to the first dance <strong>and</strong> even the mashed<br />

potatoes—was a hit! <strong>The</strong> MVPs of the night scored a<br />

touchdown with pictures of their smil<strong>in</strong>g selves <strong>and</strong> loved<br />

ones shower<strong>in</strong>g them with love <strong>and</strong> congratulations as<br />

proof. “My favorite part of the day was shar<strong>in</strong>g my love<br />

for Matt with our family <strong>and</strong> friends. I remember smil<strong>in</strong>g<br />

from ear to ear the entire time,” says Tar<strong>in</strong>. OO<br />

—Isabella De Garza<br />

160 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


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THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

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916-220-0519 | jbwedd<strong>in</strong>gphoto.com<br />

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TURN TO PAGE 200 FOR MORE OF TARIN & MATT’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

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eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

FALINA &<br />

MICHAEL<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

ARTISTIC PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAMI<br />

It sounds almost cliché that a professional<br />

baseb<strong>all</strong> player would<br />

f<strong>in</strong>d his spouse at a baseb<strong>all</strong> game,<br />

s<strong>in</strong>ce the job of professional athlete<br />

no doubt earns more than a<br />

few female fans. That’s exactly<br />

what happened for former probaseb<strong>all</strong><br />

player Mike, though, who<br />

met Fal<strong>in</strong>a at a game—but it’s<br />

not exactly what you’d th<strong>in</strong>k. “I<br />

played Citrus Heights Pony League Baseb<strong>all</strong><br />

with Fal<strong>in</strong>a’s brother, <strong>and</strong> her father was the<br />

coach, back when I was 11,” says Mike. “Fal<strong>in</strong>a<br />

was 10 at that time, runn<strong>in</strong>g around, rid<strong>in</strong>g her<br />

bike <strong>and</strong> fetch<strong>in</strong>g foul baseb<strong>all</strong>s for snow cones<br />

at our games.” <strong>The</strong> two were friendly as kids, but<br />

noth<strong>in</strong>g came of it.<br />

However, a decade later, dur<strong>in</strong>g which time<br />

Mike played for the M<strong>in</strong>nesota Tw<strong>in</strong>s, Pittsburgh<br />

Pirates, St. Louis Card<strong>in</strong>als <strong>and</strong> C<strong>in</strong>c<strong>in</strong>nati Reds,<br />

he reconnected with Fal<strong>in</strong>a. <strong>The</strong>y dated for 10<br />

years before Mike pulled off a poolside proposal<br />

while spend<strong>in</strong>g the weekend <strong>in</strong> Turks <strong>and</strong> Caicos.<br />

Though they dated for a decade, they had a<br />

very quick engagement, plann<strong>in</strong>g everyth<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />

only seven months. Fal<strong>in</strong>a says t<strong>here</strong>’s a simple<br />

reason for that: she couldn’t wait to get married!<br />

“I went straight up to the Catta Verdera Clubhouse<br />

to ask what dates were available for that<br />

year,” she says. “I didn’t want to wait any longer<br />

to marry my best friend. When you f<strong>in</strong>d<br />

your forever, you want it start as soon<br />

as possible.”<br />

In a unique twist, the venue had December<br />

29 available; the date Fal<strong>in</strong>a’s<br />

p<strong>are</strong>nts married on 45 years prior. And<br />

just as her p<strong>are</strong>nts had done, Fal<strong>in</strong>a <strong>and</strong><br />

Mike chose to have a c<strong>and</strong>le-lit wedd<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

“I love c<strong>and</strong>les,” she says. “It<br />

felt re<strong>all</strong>y romantic <strong>and</strong> magical.”<br />

However, that magic didn’t<br />

keep Fal<strong>in</strong>a from gett<strong>in</strong>g a bit<br />

teary when the music came on for<br />

her wedd<strong>in</strong>g party to beg<strong>in</strong> the<br />

walk down the aisle. “I was wait<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>in</strong> the back room, <strong>and</strong> I almost lost<br />

it before walk<strong>in</strong>g down the aisle,”<br />

she says. Fortunately, she held it<br />

together <strong>and</strong> made it the altar for what she felt<br />

was the most memorable moment of the wedd<strong>in</strong>g:<br />

hold<strong>in</strong>g h<strong>and</strong>s <strong>and</strong> say<strong>in</strong>g her vows <strong>in</strong> front<br />

of their guests. Mike’s favorite moment took<br />

place just before that—although he loved hear<strong>in</strong>g<br />

his guests cheer as he did his own walk down<br />

the aisle, the best moment for him was see<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Fal<strong>in</strong>a walk toward him as the music played.<br />

Between the ceremony <strong>and</strong> the reception,<br />

the couple had about half an hour to themselves,<br />

which Fal<strong>in</strong>a says was a great opportunity to<br />

be together <strong>and</strong> talk about the day (while also<br />

enjoy<strong>in</strong>g some appetizers, of course). <strong>The</strong>y<br />

then went right <strong>in</strong>to the<br />

booty-shak<strong>in</strong>g reception,<br />

w<strong>here</strong> 160 guests<br />

danced the night away.<br />

Both Fal<strong>in</strong>a <strong>and</strong> Mike<br />

say that while everyth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

was amaz<strong>in</strong>g, a highlight<br />

was their wedd<strong>in</strong>g cake,<br />

complete with cascad<strong>in</strong>g<br />

flowers. “I loved our cake<br />

so much,” says Fal<strong>in</strong>a. “I<br />

remember look<strong>in</strong>g over<br />

at the cake <strong>and</strong> gett<strong>in</strong>g so<br />

excited!” OO<br />

—Suzie Dundas<br />

162 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


See<strong>in</strong>g how happy Fal<strong>in</strong>a was was by far my<br />

favorite experience.<br />

—Mike<br />

Sutter Creek Bridal Boutique<br />

209.267.0417<br />

www.theclothesm<strong>in</strong>e.com<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

VENUE AND CATERER Catta Verdera Country Club<br />

916-645-6722 | cattaverdera.com | See ad on page 143<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Artistic Photography by Tami<br />

530-409-8567 | artisticphotographybytami.com | See ad on page 76<br />

SELECT RENTALS Celebrations! Party Rentals & Tents<br />

916-773-2133 | 916-562-2900 | 775-773-8900<br />

celebrationspartyrentals.com | See ad on page 111<br />

TURN TO PAGE 200 FOR MORE OF FALINA & MIKE’S<br />

WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

> VISIT OUR WEBSITE REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM FOR A FULL LIST OF<br />

FALINA & MIKE’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS ALONG WITH MORE DETAILS,<br />

PHOTOS AND TIPS FROM THE COUPLE.<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 163


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

CHRISTINA &<br />

MICHAEL<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHOOP’S PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Christ<strong>in</strong>a <strong>and</strong> Michael, who met while work<strong>in</strong>g<br />

together <strong>in</strong> a restaurant when they were <strong>in</strong> college,<br />

dated for nearly a decade before gett<strong>in</strong>g<br />

engaged. Michael proposed dur<strong>in</strong>g a hik<strong>in</strong>g trip<br />

to Yosemite National Park, one of the couple’s<br />

favorite places to visit. “He pulled his car over at<br />

a beautiful vista to look at the view <strong>and</strong> proposed<br />

with the view of Yosemite <strong>in</strong> the background,”<br />

says Christ<strong>in</strong>a. “I was completely surprised!”<br />

Eventu<strong>all</strong>y, their save-the-date cards featured<br />

photos of them hik<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> Yosemite, <strong>and</strong><br />

they cont<strong>in</strong>ued to <strong>in</strong>corporate nature <strong>and</strong> scenery<br />

<strong>in</strong>to their wedd<strong>in</strong>g, which was held a year <strong>and</strong><br />

a half later at Cielo Estate W<strong>in</strong>ery. “<strong>The</strong> willow<br />

tree <strong>and</strong> white gazebo w<strong>here</strong> we said our vows<br />

was fairytale-like to us,” says the bride. “<strong>The</strong><br />

location of the w<strong>in</strong>ery is just far enough from<br />

the hustle <strong>and</strong> bustle of city life to feel like you<br />

<strong>are</strong> gett<strong>in</strong>g away, but close enough to not be<br />

overly burdensome for guests to travel to <strong>and</strong><br />

f<strong>in</strong>d a nice place to stay the weekend <strong>and</strong> enjoy<br />

themselves.”<br />

Eighty guests attended the wedd<strong>in</strong>g, which<br />

had a color palette of purple, maroon <strong>and</strong> p<strong>in</strong>k,<br />

along with greenery to create a classic<strong>all</strong>y<br />

romantic atmosp<strong>here</strong>. “It feels like<br />

I was <strong>in</strong> a dream because it <strong>all</strong> happened<br />

so fast <strong>and</strong> was such a happy <strong>and</strong> joyous time,”<br />

says Christ<strong>in</strong>a, who loved her flower arrangements.<br />

When she first saw Michael on their wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

day, Christ<strong>in</strong>a says she felt, “Relieved, safe, loved,<br />

<strong>and</strong> at peace.” Michael, also savored the time the<br />

couple sh<strong>are</strong>d before the wedd<strong>in</strong>g, say<strong>in</strong>g it was<br />

his favorite part of the day, “It re<strong>all</strong>y helped us<br />

calm down <strong>and</strong> focus on what was important:<br />

us!”<br />

“My favorite wedd<strong>in</strong>g day memory is laugh<strong>in</strong>g<br />

with my husb<strong>and</strong> <strong>throughout</strong> the reception,”<br />

says Christ<strong>in</strong>a. “And once the ceremony was<br />

over, we f<strong>in</strong><strong>all</strong>y got to relax <strong>and</strong> enjoy our family<br />

<strong>and</strong> friends.” Christ<strong>in</strong>a <strong>and</strong> Michael loved the<br />

ease of hav<strong>in</strong>g their ceremony <strong>and</strong> reception at<br />

the same venue.<br />

While plann<strong>in</strong>g was ch<strong>all</strong>eng<strong>in</strong>g for the couple<br />

s<strong>in</strong>ce they didn’t live near the venue or their<br />

vendors, the day went smoothly. “I expected it to<br />

be a stressful day but it was not,” says Christ<strong>in</strong>a.<br />

“All of our vendors <strong>and</strong> our wedd<strong>in</strong>g coord<strong>in</strong>ator<br />

took c<strong>are</strong> of everyth<strong>in</strong>g. We had a great time!”<br />

OO —Kristen Castillo<br />

164 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


I expected it to be a stressful day but it was not. All<br />

of our vendors <strong>and</strong> our wedd<strong>in</strong>g coord<strong>in</strong>ator took c<strong>are</strong> of<br />

everyth<strong>in</strong>g. We had a great time!<br />

—Christ<strong>in</strong>a<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

VENUE Cielo Estate W<strong>in</strong>ery<br />

530-672-8575 | cieloestate.com | See ad on page 228<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Shoop’s Photography<br />

916-804-8578 | shoopsphotography.com | See ad on page 42<br />

BRIDESMAIDS’ ATTIRE <strong>The</strong> Bridal Box<br />

916-742-4638 | thebridalbox.net | See ad on page 175<br />

FLORAL DESIGNER Amour Florist & Bridal<br />

916-392-8168 | amourmoments.com | See ad on page 222<br />

TURN TO PAGE 200 FOR MORE OF CHRISTINA & MICHAEL’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

> VISIT OUR WEBSITE REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM FOR A FULL LIST OF CHRISTINA & MICHAEL’S<br />

WEDDING PROFESSIONALS ALONG WITH MORE DETAILS, PHOTOS AND TIPS FROM THE COUPLE.<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 165


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

ALEXANDRA & SAMUEL<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERICA BALDWIN PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

When Alexa looked out on the<br />

crowd of 120 wedd<strong>in</strong>g guests<br />

just before she was to walk<br />

down the aisle with her father,<br />

she felt nervous. That changed<br />

when she saw her groom.<br />

“I couldn’t take my eyes off<br />

of him the whole time I was<br />

walk<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> <strong>all</strong> I wanted to do was get to him,”<br />

she says.<br />

Sam said marry<strong>in</strong>g Alexa was the moment<br />

he’d been wait<strong>in</strong>g for: “In that moment, I couldn’t<br />

have felt more proud or excited to marry my best<br />

friend <strong>and</strong> the woman of my dreams.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple met through a mutual friend as<br />

teenagers when they were runn<strong>in</strong>g buddies.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y dated for five <strong>and</strong> a half years before gett<strong>in</strong>g<br />

engaged dur<strong>in</strong>g a pre-Christmas vacation<br />

to South Lake <strong>Tahoe</strong>. He proposed while they<br />

were watch<strong>in</strong>g a movie wear<strong>in</strong>g their pajamas.<br />

Engaged for n<strong>in</strong>e months, they married <strong>in</strong> a<br />

f<strong>all</strong> wedd<strong>in</strong>g at Lake Natoma Inn. <strong>The</strong>y loved the<br />

venue for its beautiful scenery <strong>and</strong> convenient<br />

location.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> ceremony was beautiful. We had an<br />

archway full of eucalyptus with a white runner<br />

<strong>and</strong> green trees above us,” says Alexa. “We had<br />

<strong>all</strong> of our loved ones around us, <strong>and</strong> my brother<br />

was our officiant. He ran a hilarious <strong>and</strong> slightly<br />

<strong>in</strong>appropriate ceremony, <strong>and</strong> it kept <strong>all</strong> of us<br />

laugh<strong>in</strong>g. My husb<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> I wrote our own vows,<br />

<strong>and</strong> he made me tear up with<br />

his thoughtful words. It was<br />

amaz<strong>in</strong>g.”<br />

Alexa wore a flowy chiffon<br />

dress with lace b<strong>are</strong>foot<br />

s<strong>and</strong>als <strong>in</strong>stead of shoes. “I felt<br />

more comfortable b<strong>are</strong>foot,”<br />

she says, not<strong>in</strong>g she also wore<br />

pearl earr<strong>in</strong>gs from Tiffany & Co. that she borrowed<br />

from her mother.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y shot wedd<strong>in</strong>g photos on the trail surround<strong>in</strong>g<br />

the hotel. <strong>The</strong>ir reception, also at the<br />

venue, featured a sit-down d<strong>in</strong>ner <strong>and</strong> a glutenfree<br />

cake, especi<strong>all</strong>y for the bride.<br />

“My favorite wedd<strong>in</strong>g day detail was that<br />

our table centerpieces <strong>in</strong>corporated pictures<br />

of Sam <strong>and</strong> me at the same ages <strong>throughout</strong><br />

our childhoods,” says Alexa. “Each table had a<br />

different set of pictures, <strong>and</strong> it was re<strong>all</strong>y cool to<br />

go through <strong>and</strong> look at the two of us as kids at<br />

different ages.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> day went fast but the couple soaked<br />

up the affection <strong>and</strong> support of their family <strong>and</strong><br />

friends. “We re<strong>all</strong>y didn’t stress about the m<strong>in</strong>ute<br />

details dur<strong>in</strong>g the wedd<strong>in</strong>g, we just focused on<br />

the love,” says Sam. Alexa agrees <strong>and</strong> advises<br />

fellow couples, “Throughout the process never<br />

forget that this is just one day of your life, <strong>and</strong><br />

while it’s an amaz<strong>in</strong>g day, the real focus should<br />

be the love that you want to sh<strong>are</strong> for the rest of<br />

your life.”OO—Kristen Castillo<br />

166 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


We re<strong>all</strong>y didn’t stress about the<br />

m<strong>in</strong>ute details dur<strong>in</strong>g the wedd<strong>in</strong>g, we just<br />

focused on the love.<br />

—Sam<br />

P A P E R C o .<br />

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bespoke event <strong>in</strong>vitations<br />

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THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

VENUE AND CATERER Lake Natoma Inn<br />

916-932-2769 | lakenatoma<strong>in</strong>n.com<br />

See ad on page 109<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Erica Baldw<strong>in</strong> Photography<br />

916-990-8826 | ericabaldw<strong>in</strong>photography.com<br />

See ad on page 44<br />

BRIDAL ATTIRE Second <strong>Summer</strong> Bride<br />

916-330-4422 | secondsummerbridesacramento.com<br />

See ad one page 7<br />

DJ AND LIGHTING Music & More Enterta<strong>in</strong>ment<br />

916-601-4107 | music<strong>and</strong>moredj.com<br />

See ad on page 22<br />

TURN TO PAGE 201 FOR MORE OF<br />

ALEXA & SAM’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

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ALEXA & SAM’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS ALONG WITH<br />

MORE DETAILS, PHOTOS AND TIPS FROM THE COUPLE.<br />

Come See Us For<br />

Someth<strong>in</strong>g Extraord<strong>in</strong>ary<br />

312 Ma<strong>in</strong> St. #103 Placerville<br />

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Mon: 10am-5pm; Wed - Sat: 10am-5pm;<br />

Sun: 11am-3pm ; Closed Tuesdays<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 167


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

MARIA & KRISHAN<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEWS INC PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Maria <strong>and</strong> Krishan have had chemistry s<strong>in</strong>ce<br />

2008 when they met dur<strong>in</strong>g their, you guessed<br />

it, high school chemistry class. Fast forward to<br />

2016 w<strong>here</strong> Krishan proposed to Maria outside<br />

the auditorium right after she graduated nurs<strong>in</strong>g<br />

school.<br />

Two years later, the high school sweethearts<br />

had two ceremonies: one at a H<strong>in</strong>du Temple <strong>and</strong><br />

another at Larsa Banquet H<strong>all</strong>. Nearly 70 guests<br />

attended the H<strong>in</strong>du wedd<strong>in</strong>g ceremony, which<br />

<strong>in</strong>cluded several customs, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g light<strong>in</strong>g a fire<br />

together <strong>and</strong> walk<strong>in</strong>g around it. <strong>The</strong>y also had a<br />

cloth tied together with the bride’s veil that they<br />

couldn’t undo until the end of the ceremony. At<br />

the end of the ceremony, everyone stood up <strong>and</strong><br />

sang a prayer song.<br />

Maria felt many emotions on her wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

day. “It was the weirdest feel<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>all</strong> <strong>in</strong> one,” she<br />

says. “I felt re<strong>all</strong>y happy <strong>and</strong> excited, but I started<br />

to cry. I couldn’t help it.” Her favorite wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

day memory was hold<strong>in</strong>g onto her p<strong>are</strong>nts as<br />

they walked through the doors <strong>in</strong>to the ceremony.<br />

“I saw Krishan at the end of the aisle,”<br />

she says. “It felt like we weren’t just a couple of<br />

high school kids anymore.” Krishan’s favorite<br />

moment was watch<strong>in</strong>g his bride walk down the<br />

aisle. “I was speechless when I saw her,” he says.<br />

“I was like, ‘Man, she’s beautiful. God this is re<strong>all</strong>y<br />

happen<strong>in</strong>g.’ It was surreal.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> next day, they had a second ceremony<br />

<strong>and</strong> reception at Larsa Banquet H<strong>all</strong>, w<strong>here</strong><br />

they celebrated with more than 260 guests.<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple exchanged vows, enjoyed d<strong>in</strong>ner <strong>and</strong><br />

cake, <strong>and</strong> f<strong>in</strong>ished up the momentous occasion<br />

with speeches <strong>and</strong> danc<strong>in</strong>g. Krishan loved the<br />

speeches (t<strong>here</strong> were 14!) given by family <strong>and</strong><br />

friends. “People expla<strong>in</strong>ed how they watched<br />

our relationship grow <strong>and</strong> how far we’ve come,”<br />

says the groom. “All the great memories we created<br />

s<strong>in</strong>ce high school.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple worked hard to <strong>in</strong>corporate<br />

each other’s cultures <strong>in</strong>to the celebrations. <strong>The</strong>y<br />

served Indian food at the first reception, a nod to<br />

Krishan, <strong>and</strong> they had mariachi music at the second<br />

reception represent<strong>in</strong>g Maria’s background.<br />

Krishan praises Maria for be<strong>in</strong>g “open to my culture<br />

<strong>and</strong> go<strong>in</strong>g to the temple with me.” Both<br />

wore traditional red Indian attire for the H<strong>in</strong>du<br />

ceremony. Maria wore a red s<strong>are</strong>e with gold<br />

accents <strong>and</strong> her gold jewelry was purchased<br />

<strong>in</strong> Fiji by her mother-<strong>in</strong>-law. Krishan wore<br />

a cream colored long shirt <strong>and</strong> pants with<br />

red accents. <strong>The</strong> western ceremony’s color<br />

scheme was black, white <strong>and</strong> gold—the<br />

same colors the duo wore at senior prom.<br />

With two wedd<strong>in</strong>g ceremonies under<br />

their belt, they advise engaged couples<br />

to not procrast<strong>in</strong>ate or worry about the<br />

sm<strong>all</strong> details. And most importantly, Maria<br />

sh<strong>are</strong>s, “Don’t spend too much on the<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g; save up for the marriage.” OO<br />

— Kristen Castillo<br />

168 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


I was speechless when I saw her. I was<br />

like, ‘Man she’s beautiful. God this is re<strong>all</strong>y<br />

happen<strong>in</strong>g.’ It was surreal.<br />

—Krishan<br />

Alex Murray<br />

Independent Beauty Consultant<br />

916-849-8164<br />

www.marykay.com/afpmurray<br />

afpmurray@marykay.com<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Matthews Inc Photography<br />

209-770-1006 | miphotography209.com | See ad on page 66<br />

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eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

JILLIAN & ROBERT<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIXXIM PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Robert always joked that<br />

he was go<strong>in</strong>g to propose<br />

to Jill while she was do<strong>in</strong>g<br />

one of her favorite th<strong>in</strong>gs,<br />

rid<strong>in</strong>g horses. And he<br />

made good on that promise.<br />

“Robert suggested a<br />

trail ride at Folsom Lake,<br />

so I <strong>in</strong>vited my best friend<br />

<strong>and</strong> her husb<strong>and</strong> to go on<br />

the trail ride also,” she remembers.<br />

“It worked out<br />

perfectly because they<br />

were <strong>in</strong> on the proposal<br />

<strong>and</strong> were t<strong>here</strong> to take<br />

pictures.”<br />

Jill was <strong>in</strong> the middle<br />

of her master’s program<br />

when the couple began wedd<strong>in</strong>g plann<strong>in</strong>g, so<br />

she wanted to keep the process as straightforward<br />

as possible. “Our favorite part about plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

was spend<strong>in</strong>g time together,” she sh<strong>are</strong>s.<br />

“We <strong>are</strong> both so busy it forced us to make time<br />

to get th<strong>in</strong>gs done together for the wedd<strong>in</strong>g.”<br />

Although they had 120 guests <strong>in</strong> attendance,<br />

they wanted to keep the ceremony <strong>in</strong>timate.<br />

“Jill’s uncle officiated so that was re<strong>all</strong>y special<br />

for us to have someone that we were very<br />

close to marry us,” says Robert. <strong>The</strong> bride <strong>and</strong><br />

groom also wrote their own vows, <strong>in</strong>fus<strong>in</strong>g their<br />

senses of humor to keep the ceremony fun <strong>and</strong><br />

light. Robert loves Dr. Seuss, so the ceremony<br />

<strong>in</strong>cluded a read<strong>in</strong>g written by the children’s<br />

author. <strong>The</strong>ir dog also made an appearance,<br />

walk<strong>in</strong>g Robert <strong>in</strong>to the ceremony.<br />

It was important to<br />

Jill that her father, who<br />

has Park<strong>in</strong>son’s, walk<br />

her down the aisle. She<br />

sh<strong>are</strong>s, “My older brother<br />

was also a champ dur<strong>in</strong>g<br />

the ceremony. He had to<br />

make three trips down<br />

the aisle to escort my<br />

mom, one of the bridesmaids,<br />

<strong>and</strong> me until we<br />

reached my dad who<br />

was seated <strong>in</strong> the last<br />

row of chairs. Once we<br />

reached him, we did a<br />

h<strong>and</strong> off <strong>and</strong> my dad<br />

walked me down the rest<br />

of the way.”<br />

At the reception, the newlyweds relished<br />

<strong>in</strong> see<strong>in</strong>g their guests enjoy themselves. “One<br />

of my uncles danced his heart out, which my<br />

aunt later said didn’t even happen at their own<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g,” smiles Jill.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y also set up different lawn games for<br />

guests to play dur<strong>in</strong>g the reception <strong>and</strong> d<strong>in</strong>ner,<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g corn hole <strong>and</strong> Jenga, both of which<br />

Robert built. “We had a custom wood br<strong>and</strong><br />

that we used on the Jenga pieces,” he says.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> same emblem was also pa<strong>in</strong>ted on the<br />

corn hole.”<br />

Other than offici<strong>all</strong>y ty<strong>in</strong>g the knot, Jill <strong>and</strong><br />

Robert say their favorite part of the day was<br />

spend<strong>in</strong>g time with close friends <strong>and</strong> family they<br />

don’t get to see very often. “And eat<strong>in</strong>g,” she<br />

adds. “We love eat<strong>in</strong>g.” OO—Darren Elms<br />

170 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


Other than gett<strong>in</strong>g married, our<br />

favorite part of the day was spend<strong>in</strong>g<br />

time with our closest friends <strong>and</strong> family<br />

that we don’t get to see very often. And<br />

eat<strong>in</strong>g. We love eat<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

—the couple<br />

www.gracefulgather<strong>in</strong>gs.net<br />

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eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

OLGA & MICHAEL<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WHITE DAISY PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Olga <strong>and</strong> Michael’s love story began overseas<br />

when they first laid eyes on each other dur<strong>in</strong>g<br />

their junior year of high school. Olga had just<br />

moved with her friend <strong>and</strong> her family to one of<br />

the sm<strong>all</strong>est U.S. bases <strong>in</strong> Engl<strong>and</strong>, while Michael<br />

himself had lived <strong>in</strong> the <strong>are</strong>a for most of his life.<br />

And at sixteen, shortly after Olga’s compliment<br />

on Michael’s P<strong>in</strong>k Floyd hoodie <strong>and</strong> Michael’s<br />

perfectly cheesy, sweet l<strong>in</strong>e ask<strong>in</strong>g Olga to be<br />

his girlfriend, the two began dat<strong>in</strong>g: “Never did<br />

I imag<strong>in</strong>e wear<strong>in</strong>g an oversized, classic rock<br />

hoodie would get me a girl, <strong>and</strong> to this day I’m<br />

still not sure how that worked out so well,” says<br />

Michael.<br />

In fact, it worked out so well that when the<br />

pair took a trip to Carmel V<strong>all</strong>ey Ranch for New<br />

Year’s Day 2017, Michael surprised Olga with a<br />

r<strong>in</strong>g he presented on one knee while overlook<strong>in</strong>g<br />

the v<strong>all</strong>ey. Of course, she said “Yes!”<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple had a year <strong>and</strong> a half engagement,<br />

which <strong>all</strong>owed them enough time to stay<br />

organized <strong>and</strong> make the thoughtful decisions<br />

without feel<strong>in</strong>g rushed <strong>throughout</strong> the plann<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

“We re<strong>all</strong>y wanted our wedd<strong>in</strong>g to be relaxed<br />

<strong>and</strong> fun <strong>and</strong> I th<strong>in</strong>k we pulled that off. Dur<strong>in</strong>g<br />

the reception guests would come up <strong>and</strong> tell<br />

us <strong>all</strong> the little details they enjoyed <strong>and</strong> how<br />

they thought it was so well planned—which<br />

to me was the highest compliment because<br />

that meant <strong>all</strong> the long hours mak<strong>in</strong>g favors<br />

<strong>and</strong> dream<strong>in</strong>g up designs were tot<strong>all</strong>y worth it,”<br />

remembers Olga.<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple decided to have their <strong>in</strong>timate<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g for 50 guests at the Hellman-Ehrman<br />

Mansion at Sugar P<strong>in</strong>e Po<strong>in</strong>t State Park <strong>in</strong> Lake<br />

<strong>Tahoe</strong>, <strong>and</strong> it wasn’t until the time of the wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

that they hit a bump <strong>in</strong> the road. “<strong>The</strong> sum-<br />

mer of 2018 had some re<strong>all</strong>y terrible fires, <strong>and</strong><br />

Lake <strong>Tahoe</strong> ended up be<strong>in</strong>g k<strong>in</strong>d of right <strong>in</strong> the<br />

middle of two bigger ones which created this<br />

funnel of smoke <strong>and</strong> ash at the bas<strong>in</strong> of the lake,<br />

<strong>and</strong> we were worried how that might affect the<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g,” the bride remembers. “I was try<strong>in</strong>g to<br />

stay positive <strong>and</strong> not re<strong>all</strong>y th<strong>in</strong>k about how that<br />

might impact the day, but obviously we were<br />

nervous that our outdoor wedd<strong>in</strong>g was go<strong>in</strong>g to<br />

be cut short due to smoke, <strong>and</strong> also, we didn’t<br />

want to jeopardize our guests’ health.” However,<br />

after cross<strong>in</strong>g their f<strong>in</strong>gers <strong>and</strong> push<strong>in</strong>g forward<br />

with their plans, everyth<strong>in</strong>g managed to f<strong>all</strong> <strong>in</strong>to<br />

place, “By about 4 o’clock that afternoon, the<br />

smoke had completely cle<strong>are</strong>d, <strong>and</strong> we had the<br />

most beautiful ceremony <strong>and</strong> reception with<br />

views of the mounta<strong>in</strong>s <strong>and</strong> the lake, <strong>and</strong> the<br />

most gorgeous sunset. We re<strong>all</strong>y got so lucky.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> long-awaited day started with Olga<br />

walk<strong>in</strong>g down the aisle, transitioned <strong>in</strong>to the<br />

reception featur<strong>in</strong>g delicious food from Blend<br />

Cater<strong>in</strong>g along with donuts from Doughboys<br />

Donuts <strong>and</strong> was topped off with “3005” by<br />

Childish Gamb<strong>in</strong>o. “It was one of my most<br />

played songs from college. When it came on<br />

everyone was so excited <strong>and</strong> started danc<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>and</strong> s<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g along, <strong>and</strong> it just re<strong>all</strong>y was exactly<br />

what I wanted the night to be,” remembers Olga.<br />

<strong>The</strong>ir dreamy, unforgettable wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

that they happily sh<strong>are</strong>d with<br />

their family <strong>and</strong> friends is a memory<br />

they will both love <strong>and</strong> cherish for<br />

years to come. <strong>The</strong> bride remembers,<br />

“It wasn’t that long ago, but I can still<br />

picture the whole scene so vividly,<br />

<strong>and</strong> I hope that never changes.” OO<br />

<br />

— Isabella De Garza<br />

172 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


We opted for one of our favorite treats:<br />

donuts! We had a gorgeous display <strong>and</strong> sh<strong>are</strong>d<br />

a little donut bite together after d<strong>in</strong>ner, <strong>and</strong> I<br />

th<strong>in</strong>k it was a re<strong>all</strong>y big hit with our guests.<br />

We also had a few left over which we got<br />

to sh<strong>are</strong> because who doesn’t want a little<br />

midnight snack for later?<br />

—Olga<br />

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White Daisy Photography<br />

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eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

ANNA & MARK<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KYLIE COMPTON PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

For Anna <strong>and</strong> Mark, the best time spent together<br />

is time spent outdoors camp<strong>in</strong>g, barbecue<strong>in</strong>g, or<br />

enjoy<strong>in</strong>g warm weather; <strong>and</strong> time spent mak<strong>in</strong>g<br />

fun of each other, of course. “We make fun of<br />

each other a lot!” says Anna. “In a good way. We<br />

like to make each other laugh.”<br />

Anna <strong>and</strong> Mark made each other laugh for<br />

three years before gett<strong>in</strong>g engaged <strong>in</strong> Puerto<br />

V<strong>all</strong>arta, Mexico, <strong>in</strong> June 2017. Mark suspected<br />

Anna had a P<strong>in</strong>terest account of r<strong>in</strong>gs she liked,<br />

so he created a secret account to figure out what<br />

she liked <strong>and</strong> didn’t like. “He nailed the r<strong>in</strong>g,” says<br />

Anna. “He said that I didn’t even say ‘yes;’ I just<br />

stuck my h<strong>and</strong> out for the r<strong>in</strong>g!”<br />

<strong>The</strong> joyful event, with 160 guests, was held<br />

at Joseph Family V<strong>in</strong>eyards, owned by Anna’s<br />

family. <strong>The</strong> ceremony was under a large oak tree,<br />

with Mark’s son play<strong>in</strong>g a role of honor as the<br />

r<strong>in</strong>gbe<strong>are</strong>r. <strong>The</strong>y added a few rustic-yet-elegant<br />

details, like their welcome cart, decorated with<br />

greenery <strong>and</strong> photos of the couple. But Anna<br />

says that the natural backdrop of the v<strong>in</strong>eyard<br />

was stunn<strong>in</strong>g enough without requir<strong>in</strong>g much<br />

additional décor.<br />

Mark’s favorite part of the ceremony was<br />

watch<strong>in</strong>g Anna walk down the aisle; Anna says<br />

that walk was her favorite part, too. While the<br />

goal of the ceremony was to create a fun <strong>and</strong> relaxed<br />

atmosp<strong>here</strong>, Anna says that the walk was<br />

emotional. She walked down the aisle to Pachelbel’s<br />

Canon <strong>in</strong> D—the same song her mother<br />

chose at her wedd<strong>in</strong>g. Her mother died when<br />

Anna was only 16, so choos<strong>in</strong>g the same song<br />

was a thoughtful way to honor her <strong>and</strong> have her<br />

<strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong> the lov<strong>in</strong>g celebration.<br />

But after that, the party was <strong>all</strong> about fun,<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g laugh-out-loud speeches from loved<br />

ones. “We wanted everyone to be able to relax<br />

<strong>and</strong> have the wedd<strong>in</strong>g be a big party,” says Anna.<br />

That’s one of the reasons they decided to stray<br />

from the usual wedd<strong>in</strong>g f<strong>are</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>in</strong>stead brought<br />

<strong>in</strong> a pizza oven along with salads <strong>and</strong> specialty<br />

pies. <strong>The</strong>y also situated the long, communal<br />

tables near each other to create a close <strong>and</strong><br />

<strong>in</strong>timate feel<strong>in</strong>g dur<strong>in</strong>g d<strong>in</strong>ner.<br />

Both Anna <strong>and</strong> Mark felt that the ceremony<br />

went by far too quickly, so much so that Anna<br />

wishes they had started the celebration earlier<br />

to leave more time for danc<strong>in</strong>g. But she also<br />

says that stick<strong>in</strong>g to their budget <strong>and</strong> manag<strong>in</strong>g<br />

her desire for everyth<strong>in</strong>g to be perfect was<br />

quite stressful <strong>and</strong> time consum<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

so hav<strong>in</strong>g it be done isn’t <strong>all</strong> bad.<br />

“<strong>The</strong>re is also a bit of relief when it’s<br />

over, though, because the plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

process is <strong>all</strong>-consum<strong>in</strong>g,” she says.<br />

“It felt like now we can relax <strong>and</strong><br />

start our life.” OO—Suzie Dundas<br />

174 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


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eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

APRIL & DEXTER<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARCI TERRY PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

April <strong>and</strong> Dex, who met at work, dated for four years before<br />

gett<strong>in</strong>g engaged at Auberge Du Soleil dur<strong>in</strong>g brunch.<br />

Dex had “Will You Marry Me?” written on the plate of their<br />

last dessert course.<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple actu<strong>all</strong>y had three wedd<strong>in</strong>gs: a ceremony<br />

<strong>in</strong> Taiwan w<strong>here</strong> the bride has family, a ceremony <strong>in</strong> Philipp<strong>in</strong>es<br />

w<strong>here</strong> the groom has family, <strong>and</strong> their ma<strong>in</strong> celebration:<br />

a ceremony <strong>and</strong> reception <strong>in</strong> <strong>Northern</strong> <strong>California</strong>.<br />

Hav<strong>in</strong>g multiple wedd<strong>in</strong>gs was a memorable period for<br />

April <strong>and</strong> Dex. “It <strong>all</strong>owed both sides of our family to<br />

bond,” says April. “Hav<strong>in</strong>g them <strong>and</strong> our close friends<br />

travell<strong>in</strong>g with us <strong>and</strong> shar<strong>in</strong>g the different cultures was<br />

very special.”<br />

<strong>The</strong>ir ceremony at Vezer Family V<strong>in</strong>eyard was simple<br />

<strong>and</strong> personalized. <strong>The</strong>y exchanged vows outdoors <strong>in</strong> the<br />

v<strong>in</strong>eyard, w<strong>here</strong> a pianist <strong>and</strong> guitarist played. Dex’s best<br />

friend officiated the wedd<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>and</strong> the bride <strong>and</strong> groom<br />

wrote their own vows. Dex’s favorite memory was see<strong>in</strong>g<br />

his bride when she appe<strong>are</strong>d from beh<strong>in</strong>d the barn<br />

doors to walk down the aisle. April loved when Dex read<br />

his vows. <strong>The</strong> couple did not have a wedd<strong>in</strong>g party <strong>and</strong><br />

wanted a “short <strong>and</strong> sweet” ceremony s<strong>in</strong>ce the day was<br />

go<strong>in</strong>g to be very hot <strong>and</strong> they didn’t want their 140 guests<br />

to stay under the sun for too long.<br />

<strong>The</strong> reception was also held at the v<strong>in</strong>eyard. <strong>The</strong> couple,<br />

both eng<strong>in</strong>eers, chose a light color scheme of white<br />

<strong>and</strong> gold, with bits of blush to complement the barrel<br />

room’s light blue shade on the outside as well as the lush<br />

greenery <strong>in</strong> the backdrop. <strong>The</strong>y had a traditional Filip<strong>in</strong>o<br />

money dance dur<strong>in</strong>g the reception.<br />

Stick<strong>in</strong>g to a budget <strong>and</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g the guest list low<br />

were ch<strong>all</strong>eng<strong>in</strong>g for the couple. “Filip<strong>in</strong>o wedd<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>are</strong><br />

typic<strong>all</strong>y <strong>in</strong> the 200 to 300 guest range because of the<br />

young adults <strong>and</strong> kids,” says Dex. “It was difficult for me to<br />

break the news to my family <strong>and</strong> friends that our wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

was an adult-only affair.”<br />

<strong>The</strong>y highly recommend hav<strong>in</strong>g a wedd<strong>in</strong>g planner—<br />

they booked Danielle Vargas of Camellia Lane Events.<br />

“Some of the details that I sweated about did not even<br />

cross my m<strong>in</strong>d the day of, either because I knew my awesome<br />

planner was go<strong>in</strong>g to take c<strong>are</strong> of it or just hav<strong>in</strong>g<br />

my friends <strong>and</strong> family by my side to sh<strong>are</strong> our special day<br />

was significantly more important than the little th<strong>in</strong>gs,”<br />

says April.<br />

<strong>The</strong> day was a wonderful<br />

celebration <strong>and</strong> the couple savored<br />

the quality time <strong>and</strong> special<br />

moments. “At the end of<br />

the night, when <strong>all</strong> the ‘formalities’<br />

were done <strong>and</strong> over with,<br />

we were able to just re<strong>all</strong>y have<br />

a great time with the friends<br />

<strong>and</strong> family,” says April. OO<br />

<br />

—Kristen Castillo<br />

176 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


We had three wedd<strong>in</strong>gs: the<br />

ma<strong>in</strong> one <strong>in</strong> <strong>California</strong>, then one <strong>in</strong><br />

Taiwan <strong>and</strong> one <strong>in</strong> the Philipp<strong>in</strong>es, so<br />

at some po<strong>in</strong>t, my sanity was way more<br />

important than the budget.<br />

— April<br />

Beautiful wedd<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong> a<br />

natural mounta<strong>in</strong> sett<strong>in</strong>g<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Darci Terry Photography<br />

707-469-3736 | darciterryphotography.com<br />

See ad on page 43<br />

1000 Cypress Po<strong>in</strong>t Drive // Arnold, CA<br />

209-795-1000 ext. 8<br />

www.sequoiawoods.com<br />

TURN TO PAGE 201 FOR MORE OF APRIL & DEX’S<br />

WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

> VISIT OUR WEBSITE REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM FOR A FULL<br />

LIST OF APRIL & DEX’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS ALONG WITH<br />

MORE DETAILS, PHOTOS AND TIPS FROM THE COUPLE.<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 177


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

JENNA &<br />

JESSICA<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

SARAH MAREN PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Anyone who’s been to a bar <strong>and</strong><br />

had extra-friendly service from<br />

the bartender has probably just<br />

assumed that the k<strong>in</strong>dness was<br />

false; a bartender who flirts with<br />

customers is likely to get extra tips,<br />

after <strong>all</strong>.<br />

“I will tell you that is not even<br />

true, at least not for me,” says Jessica,<br />

who was tend<strong>in</strong>g bar when she first met<br />

Jenna. “I had been hitt<strong>in</strong>g on Jenna for several<br />

months <strong>and</strong> was gett<strong>in</strong>g noth<strong>in</strong>g back from<br />

her. F<strong>in</strong><strong>all</strong>y, one night her best friend was pretty<br />

much elbow<strong>in</strong>g her, tell<strong>in</strong>g her to at least flirt<br />

back.” Flirt back Jenna did, <strong>and</strong> four years later,<br />

the two tied the knot at Granite Bay Golf Club.<br />

While they <strong>in</strong>iti<strong>all</strong>y thought they’d get married <strong>in</strong><br />

a family member’s backyard, they fell <strong>in</strong> love with<br />

the beauty of the golf club’s grounds, the ease of<br />

not hav<strong>in</strong>g to plan each <strong>in</strong>dividual detail on their<br />

own, <strong>and</strong> the friendl<strong>in</strong>ess of the club’s resident<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g planner. “As a same-sex couple, you<br />

have to th<strong>in</strong>k about whether your wedd<strong>in</strong>g will<br />

be welcome <strong>in</strong> a venue <strong>and</strong> whether you will<br />

have to fight prejudice,” Jenna says. “But everyone<br />

at the club welcomed us <strong>and</strong> was excited<br />

for our wedd<strong>in</strong>g.”<br />

Because of weather concerns, the ceremony<br />

had to be moved <strong>in</strong>doors at the last m<strong>in</strong>ute to the<br />

club’s Library. But Jessica says that<br />

was just f<strong>in</strong>e with her, as the floral<br />

designer <strong>and</strong> club staff gave the<br />

room an <strong>in</strong>credibly romantic feel,<br />

with cream l<strong>in</strong>ens, warm c<strong>and</strong>les,<br />

<strong>and</strong> a stunn<strong>in</strong>g amount of deepred<br />

roses that lit up the room.<br />

<strong>The</strong>ir ceremony <strong>in</strong>cluded not just<br />

promises to each other, but also<br />

promises to Jenna’s daughter. “It was mov<strong>in</strong>g,”<br />

Jessica says. “I was sobb<strong>in</strong>g.”<br />

However, the sobb<strong>in</strong>g quickly tuned to celebration<br />

as the <strong>in</strong>timate 60-person wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

began to celebrate. <strong>The</strong>y skipped most of the<br />

traditional first dances <strong>and</strong> went right to tear<strong>in</strong>g<br />

up the dance floor, which was rock<strong>in</strong>g non-stop.<br />

“Our DJ was amaz<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> kept everyone danc<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>all</strong> night,” says Jessica. “We have proof of his<br />

amaz<strong>in</strong>g DJ skills, because our nephew Scott<br />

liter<strong>all</strong>y split his pants from top of trouser past<br />

his leg. App<strong>are</strong>ntly he knows how to drop it low.”<br />

Both Jenna <strong>and</strong> Jessica agree they didn’t<br />

want to create a wedd<strong>in</strong>g, rather a celebration: of<br />

love, of each other, <strong>and</strong> of the recent legalization<br />

of same-sex marriage <strong>in</strong> the U.S. “It has <strong>and</strong> cont<strong>in</strong>ues<br />

to be a long road. So f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g my person,<br />

the person that I choose to spend my life with,<br />

means more to me than a party,” says Jessica. “It<br />

is <strong>and</strong> was a celebration.” OO—Suzie Dundas<br />

178 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


Th<strong>in</strong>gs happen, just roll with it. Make it about<br />

your person you’re marry<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> forget the rest.<br />

—Jessica<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

VENUE AND CATERER Granite Bay Golf Club<br />

916-791-7578 | granitebayclub.com | See ad on page 19<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Sarah M<strong>are</strong>n Photography<br />

916-538-3602 | sarahm<strong>are</strong>n.com | See ad on page 22<br />

FLORAL DESIGNER Visual Impact Design<br />

916-489-3746 | visualimpact-design.com | See ad on page 234<br />

TURN TO PAGE 201 FOR MORE OF JENNA & JESSICA’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

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REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 179


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

PAIGE & ANDREW<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW & MELANIE PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Paige met Andrew on the first day of college classes.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y both have ties to Germany, <strong>and</strong> they met <strong>in</strong> their<br />

language class. “As soon as I saw him walk <strong>in</strong>to German<br />

class, I was like t<strong>here</strong> he is: future husb<strong>and</strong>,” she says.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y quickly became close friends, but it was another<br />

couple of years before they started dat<strong>in</strong>g dur<strong>in</strong>g Paige’s<br />

junior year.<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple grew together as they experienced more<br />

life changes—graduat<strong>in</strong>g, jobs <strong>and</strong> graduate school. “I<br />

got a very good job opportunity <strong>in</strong> Houston, <strong>and</strong> Andrew<br />

was plann<strong>in</strong>g to go to law school <strong>in</strong> Boston,” Paige<br />

remembers. “My friend asked me if I thought we would<br />

break up because the long distance was crazy, to which<br />

I burst <strong>in</strong>to tears th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g how I never wanted our relationship<br />

to end.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> couple lived together <strong>in</strong> Wash<strong>in</strong>gton, D.C. as<br />

Andrew f<strong>in</strong>ished law school at Georgetown. In their free<br />

time, they loved walk<strong>in</strong>g around the monuments. Enter<br />

Andrew’s idea for his proposal, <strong>in</strong>vit<strong>in</strong>g his sister <strong>and</strong><br />

her husb<strong>and</strong> along to hide <strong>and</strong> take photos. “When we<br />

arrived to the specific location w<strong>here</strong> I wanted to propose—with<br />

the Jefferson Memorial <strong>and</strong> Tidal Bas<strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong> the<br />

background—I said a few words to Paige prior to gett<strong>in</strong>g<br />

down on one knee <strong>and</strong> my sister anticipated that I did<br />

not have the guts to get on one knee, <strong>and</strong> yelled out ‘get<br />

down on one knee, dude!’ It <strong>all</strong> happened so fast, but<br />

before I knew it, Paige had the r<strong>in</strong>g on her f<strong>in</strong>ger with<br />

teary eyes,” he says.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y enjoyed the thrill of be<strong>in</strong>g engaged before<br />

jump<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to plann<strong>in</strong>g mode. “We did not start plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

right away because we knew we were mov<strong>in</strong>g from D.C.<br />

to San Francisco due to some new jobs. I also had my<br />

dream location <strong>in</strong> m<strong>in</strong>d—my p<strong>are</strong>nts’ farm <strong>in</strong> Auburn. As<br />

soon as we decided <strong>California</strong> would be w<strong>here</strong> we would<br />

marry, I searched to f<strong>in</strong>d the perfect planner.” She found<br />

that with Jenn Robirds Events, “Jenn was the best th<strong>in</strong>g<br />

that happened to our wedd<strong>in</strong>g!” With the location <strong>and</strong><br />

planner locked <strong>in</strong>, they could start br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g their over<strong>all</strong><br />

vision to life. “I re<strong>all</strong>y wanted it to feel like we had a bunch<br />

of our best friends <strong>and</strong> family over for a big d<strong>in</strong>ner party<br />

with lots of danc<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> dr<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g,” she says. “I wanted it<br />

to be a day full of our favorite th<strong>in</strong>gs: favorite food, colors,<br />

dr<strong>in</strong>ks, people <strong>and</strong> music.”<br />

For Andrew, one of his favorite memories happened<br />

after everyone had gone home. “We capped the night<br />

off <strong>in</strong> my tux <strong>and</strong> Paige’s wedd<strong>in</strong>g dress with a late night<br />

meal at—no place better—In-N-Out. We received a st<strong>and</strong><strong>in</strong>g<br />

ovation when we walked <strong>in</strong>!”<br />

For Paige, one of the highlights of the day was her<br />

first look with Andrew. “<strong>The</strong>y <strong>are</strong> still some of my favorite<br />

pictures because I still remember the feel<strong>in</strong>g. Even<br />

though we have been together for seven years, I just felt<br />

so excited to see him.” OO—Kourtney Jason<br />

180 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


I remember watch<strong>in</strong>g Paige walk down the aisle. As I stood<br />

before the altar, I kept th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g about watch<strong>in</strong>g the bride walk<br />

down the aisle <strong>in</strong> movies <strong>and</strong> shows, along with wedd<strong>in</strong>gs I have<br />

attended—this time, the bride walk<strong>in</strong>g down the aisle was my<br />

bride com<strong>in</strong>g to me <strong>and</strong> everyone <strong>in</strong> the church was t<strong>here</strong> for us. It<br />

was surreal, <strong>and</strong> I felt like <strong>all</strong> of it was a dream.<br />

— Andrew<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Andrew & Melanie Photography<br />

530-274-2408 | <strong>and</strong>rew<strong>and</strong>melanie.com | See ad on page 12<br />

WEDDING PLANNER, EVENT DESIGNER AND FLORAL DESIGNER<br />

Jenn Robirds Events<br />

626-841-3758 | jennrobirdsevents.com | See ad on page 236<br />

SELECT PAPERIE Little Bird Paper Company<br />

831-809-9403 | littlebirdpapercompany.com | See ad on page 167<br />

CATERER AND BAR SERVICE R<strong>and</strong>y Peters Cater<strong>in</strong>g & Event Center<br />

916-726-2339 | r<strong>and</strong>ypeterscater<strong>in</strong>g.com | See ad on page 65<br />

CAKE AND DESSERTS Go West Bak<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> Events<br />

916-708-6264 | gowestbak<strong>in</strong>g<strong>and</strong>events.com | See ad on page 226<br />

DJ AND LIGHTING Extreme Productions Enterta<strong>in</strong>ment<br />

916-773-4329 | extremeprodjs.com | See ad on page 237<br />

RENTALS Celebrations! Party Rentals & Tents<br />

916-773-2133 | 916-562-2900 | 775–773-8900 | celebrationspartyrentals.com<br />

See ad on page 111<br />

TURN TO PAGE 201 FOR MORE OF<br />

PAIGE & ANDREW’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

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REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 181


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

KAITLIN & EVAN<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

CHARLETON CHURCHILL PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Kaitl<strong>in</strong> <strong>and</strong> Evan became engaged after a romantic<br />

proposal on a black-s<strong>and</strong> beach <strong>in</strong> Maui—but<br />

technic<strong>all</strong>y, Evan proposed on the first date!<br />

“From our <strong>in</strong>itial meet<strong>in</strong>g I knew t<strong>here</strong> was someth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

special about Evan,” says Kaitl<strong>in</strong>. She remembers<br />

that he said on their first date that they<br />

should get married, but describes it as more of<br />

a “casual suggestion” than an actual proposal.<br />

But eventu<strong>all</strong>y they did marry, <strong>in</strong> July 2018 <strong>in</strong><br />

Lake <strong>Tahoe</strong>. After a ceremony at Corpus Christi<br />

Catholic Church <strong>in</strong> <strong>Tahoe</strong> City, the reception was<br />

held on Evan’s family’s property, <strong>in</strong> a pavilion<br />

built specific<strong>all</strong>y for wedd<strong>in</strong>gs. Evan <strong>and</strong> Kaitl<strong>in</strong>’s<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g was the third held <strong>in</strong> the location, <strong>and</strong><br />

the third that <strong>in</strong>cluded a tree-plant<strong>in</strong>g ceremony<br />

to mark the occasion. “Evan’s p<strong>are</strong>nts dream is<br />

for the family to have entire grove of wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

memorialized on the property,” says Kaitl<strong>in</strong>. “It<br />

was important for us to contribute to the special<br />

memories this property already holds.”<br />

For these two, food <strong>and</strong> dr<strong>in</strong>k was an <strong>in</strong>tegral<br />

part of the celebration, with cater<strong>in</strong>g from Componere<br />

F<strong>in</strong>e D<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> the late-night arrival of<br />

the Pretty Odd We<strong>in</strong>ers Food Truck, a well-loved<br />

staple of South Lake <strong>Tahoe</strong>. Food played a part<br />

dur<strong>in</strong>g the toasts as well, as they honored Kaitl<strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>and</strong> Evan’s respective Irish <strong>and</strong> Polish backgrounds<br />

by serv<strong>in</strong>g shots of vodka or whiskey,<br />

paired with kielbasa <strong>and</strong> Irish soda bread. <strong>The</strong>ir<br />

backgrounds <strong>in</strong>fluenced the party favors, too,<br />

as they gave out <strong>Tahoe</strong>-themed travel coffee<br />

mugs filled with Tasty Cakes (a nod to Kaitl<strong>in</strong>’s<br />

East Coast hometown) <strong>and</strong> almonds (a nod to<br />

Evan’s <strong>Sacramento</strong> upbr<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g). And for dessert<br />

they went <strong>all</strong>-out, too, offer<strong>in</strong>g a Champagne<br />

cake with raspberry fill<strong>in</strong>g as well as a dessert<br />

bar with cake pops, macaroons, m<strong>in</strong>i cupcakes,<br />

<strong>and</strong> (of course!) Lake <strong>Tahoe</strong>-shaped cookies.<br />

As their wedd<strong>in</strong>g guest list <strong>in</strong>cluded more<br />

than 200 people, ow<strong>in</strong>g to their large families,<br />

the plann<strong>in</strong>g to make sure that everyone enjoyed<br />

themselves was time-<strong>in</strong>tensive. But Kaitl<strong>in</strong> was<br />

surprised when Evan revealed on the wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

day a project he’d been spend<strong>in</strong>g extra time on:<br />

a book he wrote that told their love story. “It was<br />

re<strong>all</strong>y sweet <strong>and</strong> touch<strong>in</strong>g to read through <strong>all</strong><br />

of our special memories before head<strong>in</strong>g to the<br />

church,” she says.<br />

Evan describes the day as “a blast from beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g<br />

to end,” especi<strong>all</strong>y on the dance floor,<br />

when he saw friends from <strong>all</strong> different po<strong>in</strong>ts <strong>in</strong><br />

his life together <strong>and</strong> hav<strong>in</strong>g a great time. And<br />

fortunately for the couple, the good times didn’t<br />

end when the reception was done, as the two<br />

flew to France the next day for a two-week honeymoon.<br />

Though their wedd<strong>in</strong>g was fabulous, Kaitl<strong>in</strong><br />

says that the morn<strong>in</strong>g after was also a special<br />

memory. “Eat<strong>in</strong>g breakfast burritos <strong>and</strong> dr<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Champagne on the way to the airport the morn<strong>in</strong>g<br />

after an amaz<strong>in</strong>g night<br />

with our friends <strong>and</strong> families<br />

was one of the highlights for<br />

us!” OO — Suzie Dundas<br />

182 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


We knew that n<strong>in</strong>e months would be a quick<br />

turnaround for plann<strong>in</strong>g a wedd<strong>in</strong>g of this size, but I<br />

don’t th<strong>in</strong>k we fully acknowledged how compressed<br />

some parts of the plann<strong>in</strong>g process would be.<br />

We would give ourselves just a little<br />

more time, if we had to do it <strong>all</strong> over aga<strong>in</strong>.<br />

— Kaitl<strong>in</strong><br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Charleton Churchill Photography<br />

916-520-4447 | charletonchurchill.com | See ad on page 16<br />

SELECT RENTALS Celebrations! Party Rentals & Tents<br />

916-773-2133 | 916-562-2900 | 775–773-8900<br />

celebrationspartyrentals.com | See ad on page 111<br />

TURN TO PAGE 201 FOR MORE OF KAITLIN & EVAN’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

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REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 183


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

ANGELA & JASON<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PASSION STUDIO<br />

Angela <strong>and</strong> Jason had a fairytale engagement<br />

followed by a a fairytale wedd<strong>in</strong>g. <strong>The</strong> two met<br />

<strong>in</strong> 2016 when Angela was work<strong>in</strong>g on a story<br />

as a reporter for CBS 13. <strong>The</strong>y dated for a year<br />

<strong>and</strong> got engaged dur<strong>in</strong>g a romantic getaway to<br />

Punta Cana <strong>in</strong> the Dom<strong>in</strong>ican Republic. Jason<br />

had booked a photo shoot to celebrate their<br />

one-year anniversary. <strong>The</strong>y shot <strong>in</strong> multiple locations,<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g their last stop at the beach.<br />

“Once we walked onto a pier over the water,<br />

Jason got down on one knee <strong>and</strong> asked me to be<br />

his wife,” says Angela. “It was a fairytale proposal<br />

I will never forget!”<br />

A year later, they married at Cathedral of the<br />

Blessed Sacrament. Angela’s childhood priest<br />

officiated the ceremony. “Father Bernard Poggi<br />

led the ceremony <strong>in</strong> such a seamless <strong>and</strong> elegant<br />

way,” she says. “We felt so much love radiat<strong>in</strong>g<br />

from each other <strong>and</strong> our family members, it was<br />

truly a surreal experience.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> bride was emotional when she saw her<br />

groom. “I was so excited, happy <strong>and</strong> ready to<br />

bawl tears of joy but I tried hard not to cry because<br />

I didn’t want to be the bawl<strong>in</strong>g bride.” Jason<br />

was stunned by her beauty <strong>and</strong> felt blessed<br />

that she was walk<strong>in</strong>g down the aisle to become<br />

his wife.<br />

Throughout the day, they had several family<br />

traditions. Dur<strong>in</strong>g the ceremony, their mothers<br />

lit two c<strong>and</strong>les next to the unity c<strong>and</strong>le at the<br />

Cathedral altar, symboliz<strong>in</strong>g unity as a new family.<br />

Angela’s father walked her down the aisle<br />

<strong>and</strong> the groom’s uncle did the first read<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />

honor of Jason’s father, who died several years<br />

ago. “Fus<strong>in</strong>g our cultures together made for an<br />

enterta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g wedd<strong>in</strong>g reception,” says Angela<br />

who’s Palest<strong>in</strong>ian <strong>and</strong> Armenian; Jason is Italian.<br />

Dur<strong>in</strong>g their reception at the Hyatt Regency<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong>, the couple danced to an Arabic<br />

song <strong>in</strong>to the b<strong>all</strong>room, w<strong>here</strong> they met the wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

party <strong>and</strong> immediate family on the dance<br />

floor. “It’s tradition for the bride <strong>and</strong> groom to be<br />

surrounded by the wedd<strong>in</strong>g party <strong>and</strong> immediate<br />

family dur<strong>in</strong>g this <strong>in</strong>troduction, as it’s the<br />

first dance to celebrate us as husb<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> wife,”<br />

she says. <strong>The</strong>y also did a chair dance, w<strong>here</strong><br />

the bride was lifted on a chair <strong>and</strong> the groom<br />

was sitt<strong>in</strong>g on his groomsmen’s shoulders, <strong>and</strong><br />

they <strong>in</strong>cluded “Dabke,” a popular folk dance <strong>in</strong><br />

Palest<strong>in</strong>ian culture.<br />

Jason has many favorite moments from<br />

the wedd<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g exchang<strong>in</strong>g vows, his<br />

mother-son dance, watch<strong>in</strong>g his gr<strong>and</strong>ma dance<br />

<strong>and</strong> his father-<strong>in</strong>-law’s speech. Jason enjoyed<br />

“see<strong>in</strong>g Angela’s reaction when we had a sneak<br />

peek of the decorated b<strong>all</strong>room prior to the<br />

guests see<strong>in</strong>g the room.” She loved the look, say<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

“I believe the floral <strong>and</strong> décor re<strong>all</strong>y add so<br />

much to the wedd<strong>in</strong>g reception vibe, <strong>and</strong><br />

we wanted someth<strong>in</strong>g elegant <strong>and</strong> glam<br />

at the same time.” <strong>The</strong>ir lavender, white,<br />

blush <strong>and</strong> gold color palette popped for<br />

their summer nuptials.<br />

<strong>The</strong> day flowed smoothly for the<br />

couple, who honeymooned <strong>in</strong> Italy. “I<br />

don’t th<strong>in</strong>k t<strong>here</strong> was ever a dull moment<br />

on our wedd<strong>in</strong>g day, <strong>and</strong> it was<br />

evident by how much fun our guests<br />

were hav<strong>in</strong>g,” says Angela. OO<br />

—Kristen Castillo<br />

184 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


I don’t th<strong>in</strong>k t<strong>here</strong> was ever a<br />

dull moment on our wedd<strong>in</strong>g day, <strong>and</strong><br />

it was evident by how much fun our<br />

guests were hav<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

—Angela<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER, VIDEOGRAPHER AND PHOTO BOOTH Passion Studio<br />

916-595-9067 | 916-505-9299 | passionstudio.org | See ad on page 45<br />

RECEPTION SITE AND CATERER Hyatt Regency <strong>Sacramento</strong><br />

916-321-3520 | sacramento.hyatt.com | See ad on page 17<br />

TURN TO PAGE 201 FOR MORE OF ANGELA & JASON’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

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REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 185


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

STEPHANIE &<br />

MATT<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY<br />

DANIELLE ALYSSE PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Stephanie <strong>and</strong> Matt <strong>are</strong> thankful<br />

for second chances. <strong>The</strong>y<br />

first met when Matt <strong>and</strong> a<br />

friend visited the bar w<strong>here</strong><br />

Stephanie worked. “<strong>The</strong>y decided<br />

to try scotch for the first<br />

time at 11 a.m. on a Wednesday,<br />

<strong>and</strong> I made fun of them,” she<br />

says. Flash forward a couple<br />

years <strong>and</strong> their paths crossed<br />

aga<strong>in</strong> at a Spartan Race. “We<br />

exchanged numbers, but he<br />

was dat<strong>in</strong>g someone else so we rema<strong>in</strong>ed friends<br />

for a few weeks. He broke th<strong>in</strong>gs off <strong>and</strong> asked<br />

to take me on a date,” she says.<br />

Th<strong>in</strong>gs took off between them, even though<br />

they’d have to go days without see<strong>in</strong>g each other<br />

due to Matt’s job as a firefighter. “Dat<strong>in</strong>g him<br />

often felt like <strong>The</strong> Bachelor,” she says. “He would<br />

plan extravagant dates whenever he was home.<br />

Our first few dates consisted of ice-skat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />

San Francisco, a trip to <strong>Tahoe</strong> to snowboard <strong>and</strong><br />

a weekend escape to Seattle. That was <strong>all</strong> with<strong>in</strong><br />

the first two months.” <strong>The</strong>y cont<strong>in</strong>ued their adventures<br />

together, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g a trip to Spa<strong>in</strong>. “On<br />

day six of our globe-trott<strong>in</strong>g, we went to a plaza<br />

<strong>and</strong> he says, ‘Dress nice. We <strong>are</strong> go<strong>in</strong>g to a fancy<br />

d<strong>in</strong>ner.’ I looked around the plaza <strong>and</strong> said, ‘Matt,<br />

t<strong>here</strong>’s no food <strong>here</strong>.’ I was starv<strong>in</strong>g,” she says.<br />

“<strong>The</strong>n, he got down on one knee <strong>and</strong> asked me<br />

to marry him. He arranged a photographer to be<br />

t<strong>here</strong> <strong>and</strong> caught every moment.”<br />

<strong>The</strong>y started plann<strong>in</strong>g soon after, wait<strong>in</strong>g for<br />

some of the excitement to settle. <strong>The</strong>y decided<br />

on hav<strong>in</strong>g the celebration <strong>in</strong> <strong>Tahoe</strong> at Heavenly<br />

Mounta<strong>in</strong> Resort—Stephanie couldn’t imag<strong>in</strong>e<br />

gett<strong>in</strong>g married anyw<strong>here</strong> else.<br />

Her vision was to keep th<strong>in</strong>gs natural <strong>and</strong><br />

simple, <strong>and</strong> she relied on the<br />

floral designer to help br<strong>in</strong>g<br />

it to life. “She made the most<br />

beautiful greenery garl<strong>and</strong>s for<br />

the table <strong>and</strong> it made me so<br />

happy,” she says. “She added<br />

little touches of other sm<strong>all</strong><br />

flowers <strong>throughout</strong>. I didn’t<br />

ask for it but she knew exactly<br />

what I needed.”<br />

For the ceremony, they<br />

added a more personal touch<br />

to it by hav<strong>in</strong>g Matt’s best friend officiate. <strong>The</strong>n<br />

the cocktail hour was held outside on the deck.<br />

“It was beautiful, <strong>and</strong> everyone was hav<strong>in</strong>g a<br />

great time!” she says. As the reception got underway,<br />

Stephanie had a moment to reflect. “I<br />

remember danc<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> look<strong>in</strong>g around, th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g<br />

this will probably be the only time <strong>in</strong> my life <strong>all</strong> of<br />

the most important people of my life <strong>are</strong> <strong>in</strong> one<br />

room. I was so grateful <strong>all</strong> of those people took<br />

time away from their busy lives, kids <strong>and</strong> families<br />

to spend the weekend with us,” she says.<br />

Offer<strong>in</strong>g advice to<br />

other couples-to-be,<br />

Stephanie says to truly<br />

enjoy every moment.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> day goes by so<br />

quickly. Don’t stress<br />

about someone mak<strong>in</strong>g<br />

you mad, someth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

not go<strong>in</strong>g right,”<br />

she says. “Remember<br />

someone chose to<br />

spend the rest of their<br />

life with you <strong>and</strong> that’s<br />

<strong>all</strong> that matters.” OO<br />

—Kourtney Jason<br />

186 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


<strong>The</strong> hardest part was mak<strong>in</strong>g everyone happy.<br />

I th<strong>in</strong>k t<strong>here</strong> is this stigma to do th<strong>in</strong>gs a ‘certa<strong>in</strong> way’<br />

because it’s ‘tradition.’ I am not a traditional person so I<br />

didn’t want to do any of those th<strong>in</strong>gs. <strong>The</strong> easiest part was<br />

that I had a great support system. Matt was awesome, my<br />

p<strong>are</strong>nts were awesome <strong>and</strong> my bridesmaids saved my life.<br />

Note: I suggest every bride to pick real friends. Not people<br />

they feel obligated to have t<strong>here</strong>. My bridesmaids were so<br />

thoughtful <strong>and</strong> treated me amaz<strong>in</strong>g!<br />

— Stephanie<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

VENUE AND CATERER Heavenly Mounta<strong>in</strong> Resort<br />

775-586-4442 | skiheavenly.com | See ad on page 77<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Danielle Alysse Photography<br />

916-239-9403 | daniellealyssephotography.com | See ad on page 233<br />

PHOTO BOOTH Temple Photography & Photo Booth<br />

916-856-2543 | ritatemplephotography.com | See ad on page 235<br />

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REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 187


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

CORA & AUSTIN<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KERI AOKI PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Cora <strong>and</strong> Aust<strong>in</strong> met <strong>in</strong> 2011 when they attended<br />

college <strong>in</strong> <strong>Sacramento</strong>. <strong>The</strong>y grew up <strong>in</strong> the same<br />

<strong>are</strong>a <strong>and</strong> even had mutual friends<br />

but somehow never crossed paths<br />

until a fateful birthday party. “We<br />

immediately hit it off,” remembers<br />

Cora. “<strong>The</strong>re was an undeniable<br />

chemistry between us.”<br />

While on an Alaskan cruise<br />

several years later, Aust<strong>in</strong> popped<br />

the question. After decid<strong>in</strong>g not<br />

to go on any planned excursions<br />

<strong>and</strong> just venture out on their own,<br />

the couple rented mopeds <strong>and</strong><br />

asked for recommendations on<br />

w<strong>here</strong> to go. <strong>The</strong>y were given directions to an old<br />

cemetery that most tourists bypass. “We walked<br />

<strong>all</strong> the way through <strong>and</strong> found a hidden waterf<strong>all</strong><br />

<strong>in</strong> the back,” Cora says. “Aust<strong>in</strong> pulled a little<br />

jewelry box out of his pocket, dropped to one<br />

knee <strong>and</strong> asked me to marry him!” <strong>The</strong> diamond<br />

<strong>in</strong> the r<strong>in</strong>g once belonged to Cora’s gr<strong>and</strong>mother.<br />

While plann<strong>in</strong>g the wedd<strong>in</strong>g, Cora <strong>and</strong> Aust<strong>in</strong><br />

made adjustments to the style <strong>and</strong> feel as the<br />

process went on. “I th<strong>in</strong>k it’s important to have<br />

an idea of what you want but also be flexible<br />

with your vision,” sh<strong>are</strong>s the bride. <strong>The</strong>y found<br />

<strong>in</strong>spiration on P<strong>in</strong>terest but added their own personal<br />

touches. “I th<strong>in</strong>k that’s what separates one<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g from another <strong>and</strong> makes it so special.”<br />

Cora is the first to admit that plann<strong>in</strong>g a wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

can be a time-consum<strong>in</strong>g task. “I remember<br />

everyone say<strong>in</strong>g ‘Don’t stress<br />

the sm<strong>all</strong> stuff’ but I couldn’t help<br />

it,” she says. “Now, look<strong>in</strong>g back I<br />

wish I would of <strong>all</strong>owed myself to<br />

enjoy it more. It goes by so fast,<br />

<strong>and</strong> when it was <strong>all</strong> said <strong>and</strong> done,<br />

I actu<strong>all</strong>y missed it.”<br />

Once the big day arrived, the<br />

couple exchanged their person<strong>all</strong>y<br />

written vows. “It’s hard to<br />

put such <strong>in</strong>timate, deep feel<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

<strong>in</strong>to words let alone say them out<br />

loud <strong>in</strong> front of <strong>all</strong> your family <strong>and</strong><br />

friends,” she confides, “but it made it unique.”<br />

Guests moved on to the reception at Mertz<br />

Ranch, a family friend’s private venue <strong>in</strong> W<strong>in</strong>ters.<br />

<strong>The</strong> newlyweds enjoyed greet<strong>in</strong>g each of their<br />

attendees <strong>throughout</strong> the even<strong>in</strong>g. One moment<br />

that stood out for Cora was her father-daughter<br />

dance. “Our song was the wedd<strong>in</strong>g version of<br />

‘Sweet Child o’ M<strong>in</strong>e’,” she says. “And when we<br />

walked out on to the dance floor the version by<br />

Guns N’ Roses started to play. <strong>The</strong> wrong song!<br />

I don’t know why but I didn’t c<strong>are</strong>. I didn’t even<br />

tell the DJ it was the wrong version. My dad <strong>and</strong><br />

I just looked at each other <strong>and</strong> laughed <strong>and</strong> we<br />

danced.” OO<br />

— Darren Elms<br />

188 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


<strong>The</strong> one th<strong>in</strong>g I will never forget from the<br />

reception was my father daughter dance. Our song<br />

was the wedd<strong>in</strong>g version of ‘Sweet Child o’ M<strong>in</strong>e.’ But<br />

when we walked out on to the dance floor the version<br />

by Guns N’ Roses started to play. <strong>The</strong> wrong song! My<br />

dad <strong>and</strong> I just looked at each other <strong>and</strong> laughed <strong>and</strong><br />

we danced (horribly). No one knew it was the wrong<br />

song but us. In fact some people even told me they<br />

thought it was cool we chose that song!<br />

— Cora<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Keri Aoki Photography<br />

530-312-6690 | keriaokiphotography.com | See ad on page 235<br />

FLORAL DESIGNER Picture Perfect Petals<br />

760-846-0922 | pictureperfectpetals.com | See ad on page 237<br />

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eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

JAMIE & PHILLIP<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA S PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

James W. Marsh<strong>all</strong> discovered gold at Sutter’s<br />

Mill <strong>in</strong> 1848, spark<strong>in</strong>g the <strong>California</strong> Gold Rush.<br />

Phil says he discovered gold at that same place<br />

when he met Jamie underneath a tree <strong>in</strong> Marsh<strong>all</strong><br />

Gold State Park. It was love at first sight for<br />

the couple, who lov<strong>in</strong>gly c<strong>all</strong> themselves “Team<br />

Craderson,” an ode to their last names.<br />

Jamie lived <strong>in</strong> Oakl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Phil lived east of<br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong>, but somehow they managed the<br />

hundred miles between them <strong>and</strong> figured out<br />

how to be together almost every day. Eventu<strong>all</strong>y<br />

Jamie gave up her beloved apartment <strong>in</strong> the<br />

Bay Area <strong>and</strong> moved <strong>in</strong> with Phil <strong>and</strong> his kids <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Sacramento</strong>.<br />

Dur<strong>in</strong>g a hike <strong>in</strong> Death V<strong>all</strong>ey, Phil planned to<br />

propose to Jamie at the summit. <strong>The</strong> two were<br />

completely exposed on the ridge of the meadow<br />

<strong>and</strong> light<strong>in</strong>g began to strike around them. <strong>The</strong><br />

storm foiled his plans, but he suggested they rest<br />

<strong>in</strong> the shade of a sm<strong>all</strong> tree. This was his chance.<br />

Between lightn<strong>in</strong>g strikes, Phil took Jamie’s<br />

h<strong>and</strong>s, looked <strong>in</strong>to her eyes <strong>and</strong> told her that<br />

he wanted to marry her. With<strong>in</strong> moments, the<br />

clouds parted <strong>and</strong> a double ra<strong>in</strong>bow formed over<br />

the trail <strong>in</strong> the exact direction they were head<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

“We love the desert <strong>and</strong> Coloma, w<strong>here</strong> we<br />

met kayak<strong>in</strong>g, so we wanted to br<strong>in</strong>g the desert<br />

to Coloma,” says Phil of their wedd<strong>in</strong>g plan. “We<br />

started almost a year early <strong>and</strong> worked steadily<br />

over the year lead<strong>in</strong>g up to the wedd<strong>in</strong>g, so it<br />

was never a last m<strong>in</strong>ute rush or overwhelm<strong>in</strong>g.”<br />

At their ceremony, their officiant Jason<br />

researched plants <strong>and</strong> animals that live <strong>in</strong> the<br />

desert <strong>and</strong> had several close friends <strong>and</strong> family<br />

read about the plants <strong>and</strong> animals <strong>and</strong> worked <strong>in</strong><br />

analogies for love <strong>and</strong> happ<strong>in</strong>ess. Jamie’s mom<br />

nailed the river <strong>and</strong> desert motif with an arch.<br />

Phil also loved how his children played a role<br />

<strong>in</strong> the ceremony. “I was so honored to have my<br />

beautiful daughter walk me down the aisle, <strong>and</strong><br />

I loved when my son gave me bunny ears <strong>in</strong> the<br />

middle of the actual ceremony.”<br />

Both ceremony <strong>and</strong> reception were held at<br />

the same venue, Earthtrek Expeditions. Guests<br />

enjoyed a delicious barbecue from Hog Wild Bar-<br />

B-Que/Luke & Lucy Cater<strong>in</strong>g. “<strong>The</strong> d<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>are</strong>a<br />

was elegant <strong>and</strong> rustic,” says Phil. “<strong>The</strong> danc<strong>in</strong>g<br />

was down by the Gold Rush façade w<strong>here</strong> we<br />

got a lot of cool pictures from the jail <strong>and</strong> saloon.”<br />

Rather than go for overplayed wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

songs, the couple selected music that they both<br />

enjoy listen<strong>in</strong>g to. “We didn’t do any of the wedd<strong>in</strong>g<br />

reception traditions, like the garter toss,<br />

money dance or bouquet toss,” expla<strong>in</strong>s Phil.<br />

“We did a first dance <strong>and</strong> a last dance that <strong>in</strong>cluded<br />

everyone. Other than that, we wanted it<br />

to be relaxed <strong>and</strong> no-pressure for our guests.”OO<br />

—Darren Elms<br />

190 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


One of my favorite moments of the day<br />

was go<strong>in</strong>g back to the reception site with Jamie<br />

after everyone had left <strong>and</strong> absolutely devour<strong>in</strong>g<br />

the rema<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g cake. As I sat t<strong>here</strong> stuff<strong>in</strong>g my<br />

face with tiramisu, <strong>and</strong> watch<strong>in</strong>g my beautiful<br />

bride do the same, it sunk <strong>in</strong> that I had just<br />

married my dream girl.<br />

— Phil<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Monica S Photography<br />

916-800-3214 | monicasphoto.com | See ad on page 237<br />

RENTALS Celebrations! Party Rentals & Tents<br />

916-773-2133 | 916-562-2900 | 775–773-8900<br />

celebrationspartyrentals.com | See ad on page 111<br />

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eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

TAMI & JOSH<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARRIE AYN<br />

You may recognize Tami <strong>and</strong> Josh. A few years ago, they<br />

went viral after Tami published her “dudeoir” (a boudoir<br />

shoot for dudes!) photo shoot starr<strong>in</strong>g her friend Josh.<br />

“I was search<strong>in</strong>g for the perfect model as I wanted a<br />

big, hairy, logger-look<strong>in</strong>g man to re<strong>all</strong>y make it funny <strong>and</strong><br />

appeal to <strong>all</strong>,” she says. “My friend Josh posted a funny<br />

picture <strong>in</strong> his underwear that week on social media that<br />

caught my attention, <strong>and</strong> I knew he was the one!” Over<br />

the next few months, their lives were a total whirlw<strong>in</strong>d.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y were <strong>in</strong>terviewed by Cosmopolitan <strong>and</strong> HuffPost<br />

as well as featured on various national TV talk shows<br />

<strong>and</strong> radio shows.<br />

“Our courtship <strong>and</strong> dat<strong>in</strong>g was thrust right <strong>in</strong>to the<br />

spotlight <strong>in</strong> the beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g,” she says. “<strong>The</strong> viral five seconds<br />

of fame ended, but we still re<strong>all</strong>y liked spend<strong>in</strong>g<br />

time together even when the public forgot us.” As they<br />

spent more time together, they found they could also<br />

bond over be<strong>in</strong>g s<strong>in</strong>gle p<strong>are</strong>nts. “I am a s<strong>in</strong>gle mom <strong>and</strong><br />

had sworn off dat<strong>in</strong>g, as it was too hard to f<strong>in</strong>d childc<strong>are</strong><br />

for work <strong>and</strong> to date. I hated the pressures <strong>and</strong> juggl<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

but Josh made it so easy <strong>and</strong> <strong>in</strong>cluded my daughter on<br />

almost any out<strong>in</strong>g we did,” she says. “He was never the<br />

guy that says, ‘Get a sitter <strong>and</strong> let’s go to the bar.’ He’d<br />

say, ‘What do you <strong>and</strong> your daughter feel like tonight?’<br />

That made <strong>all</strong> the difference <strong>in</strong> the world. That’s when I<br />

knew he was def<strong>in</strong>itely one to keep.”<br />

After dat<strong>in</strong>g for a year, Josh planned to propose to<br />

Tami <strong>and</strong> asked their kids to help him. “His son <strong>and</strong> my<br />

daughter <strong>are</strong> the exact same age, so they <strong>all</strong> worked<br />

together,” she says. “I thought we were dressed nice to<br />

go to his family reunion <strong>and</strong> maybe take a few pictures<br />

together. Instead, he drove me to his favorite tree on the<br />

property w<strong>here</strong> he grew up. He got out of the truck to<br />

show me the tree <strong>and</strong> took a knee while the kids took<br />

pictures. It was beautiful, <strong>and</strong>, of course, like a girl, I was<br />

thankful I wasn’t <strong>in</strong> sweats with messy hair!”<br />

<strong>The</strong> wedd<strong>in</strong>g plann<strong>in</strong>g started immediately. <strong>The</strong>y<br />

envisioned a country even<strong>in</strong>g wedd<strong>in</strong>g with shabby<br />

chic touches, such as lace, old dressers, baby’s breath<br />

<strong>and</strong> mason jars. Tami’s daughter, Alexis, was her maid of<br />

honor <strong>and</strong> Josh’s son, Tyler, was his best man. “It was very<br />

special to us to st<strong>and</strong> alongside our children,” she says.<br />

Look<strong>in</strong>g back, Tami loved <strong>all</strong> the little details that<br />

made the big day so unforgettable. “We had a re<strong>all</strong>y cute,<br />

shabby chic country wedd<strong>in</strong>g,” she says. “<strong>The</strong>re were<br />

so many details <strong>all</strong> around the ranch<br />

from chalkboards <strong>and</strong> big letters<br />

that spelled love to antique furniture<br />

<strong>and</strong> ch<strong>and</strong>eliers. It was everyth<strong>in</strong>g I<br />

dreamed.” OO—Kourtney Jason<br />

192 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


We dreamed together of a country even<strong>in</strong>g<br />

wedd<strong>in</strong>g, but I loved <strong>all</strong> the lace, drap<strong>in</strong>g, old dressers,<br />

crates, barrels, baby’s breath <strong>and</strong> mason jars—I wanted<br />

to <strong>in</strong>corporate a shabby chic feel. It came out even more<br />

amaz<strong>in</strong>g than I could have ever dreamed.<br />

—Tami<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Carrie Ayn<br />

916-207-2552 | carrieayn.com | See ad on page 86<br />

CAKE AND DESSERTS Frank Vilt’s Cakes<br />

530-409-7046 | frankviltscakes.com | See ad on page 227<br />

TURN TO PAGE 202 FOR MORE OF TAMI & JOSH’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

> VISIT OUR WEBSITE REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM FOR A FULL LIST OF TAMI & JOSH’S<br />

WEDDING PROFESSIONALS ALONG WITH MORE DETAILS, PHOTOS AND TIPS FROM THE COUPLE.<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 193


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

IRENE & NOLAN<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CORI ANN PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Irene <strong>and</strong> Nolan met work<strong>in</strong>g together <strong>in</strong> L<strong>in</strong>coln. “We<br />

had known each other for a few years <strong>and</strong> had become<br />

good friends,” Irene sh<strong>are</strong>s. When Nolan <strong>in</strong>vited her to go<br />

hik<strong>in</strong>g with him at Hidden <strong>F<strong>all</strong></strong>s she couldn’t resist. “I love<br />

the outdoors <strong>and</strong> waterf<strong>all</strong>s so it was a perfect first date.”<br />

Fast-forward to Christmas 2016, when Nolan took<br />

Irene to her favorite place <strong>in</strong> the whole world, Silver <strong>F<strong>all</strong></strong>s<br />

State Park <strong>in</strong> Silverton, Oregon. At the park is a 117-foot<br />

waterf<strong>all</strong> with a trail lead<strong>in</strong>g underneath. As w<strong>in</strong>ter can be<br />

wet <strong>and</strong> chilly, Nolan took Irene <strong>in</strong>to a sm<strong>all</strong> cave nearby.<br />

“It was cold so I snuggled up to Nolan <strong>and</strong> felt someth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>in</strong> the pocket of his hoodie,” she remembers. “I leaned<br />

back <strong>and</strong> he pulled out the sm<strong>all</strong> r<strong>in</strong>g box. I’m not sure<br />

if he <strong>in</strong>tended on propos<strong>in</strong>g at that exact moment but it<br />

was <strong>all</strong> I could have dreamed of.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> bride did most of the wedd<strong>in</strong>g plann<strong>in</strong>g herself<br />

with the help of her mom <strong>and</strong> gr<strong>and</strong>mother. “My favorite<br />

times were search<strong>in</strong>g for unique décor at thrift stores <strong>and</strong><br />

watch<strong>in</strong>g my theme come together,” she sh<strong>are</strong>s. “Also, I<br />

planned on sett<strong>in</strong>g up a teepee for the kids play <strong>are</strong>a, <strong>and</strong><br />

I tested out my teepee build<strong>in</strong>g skills <strong>in</strong> my liv<strong>in</strong>g room<br />

a few days before the wedd<strong>in</strong>g. After it was successfully<br />

built, my maid of honor, my mom <strong>and</strong> I <strong>all</strong> climbed <strong>in</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />

joked around about <strong>all</strong> of the ridiculous th<strong>in</strong>gs that would<br />

most likely take place dur<strong>in</strong>g the wedd<strong>in</strong>g. <strong>The</strong> laughter<br />

was a huge stress reliever.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> ceremony was held under a large oak tree <strong>in</strong> a<br />

peaceful meadow. Nolan is of Irish decent, so the couple<br />

chose to <strong>in</strong>corporate his heritage <strong>in</strong> the wedd<strong>in</strong>g with a<br />

knot ty<strong>in</strong>g ceremony. “It was def<strong>in</strong>itely the most emotional<br />

moment for us dur<strong>in</strong>g the ceremony,” says Irene.<br />

<strong>The</strong> reception was held a short walk from the ceremony<br />

<strong>in</strong> a barn. Irene’s mom bought sheer fabric to hang<br />

<strong>in</strong> the rafters. “It was quite a bit of work gett<strong>in</strong>g such a big<br />

barn decorated, but it was simple <strong>and</strong> gorgeous once we<br />

were f<strong>in</strong>ished,” says Irene.<br />

Irene’s uncle’s b<strong>and</strong>, a family trio, provided enterta<strong>in</strong>ment<br />

at the reception. “<strong>The</strong>y set up right outside of the<br />

big barn doors <strong>and</strong> made the outside of the barn just as<br />

magical as <strong>in</strong>side,” says Irene. “<strong>The</strong>y <strong>are</strong> <strong>all</strong> amaz<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong><br />

talented musicians, <strong>and</strong> made my reception classy <strong>and</strong><br />

cool! I would highly recommend a live b<strong>and</strong> to couples<br />

want<strong>in</strong>g an unforgettable reception.” OO—Darren Elms<br />

194 | REAL WEDDINGS SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM


Prioritize what you hold most important. Devote<br />

your time <strong>and</strong> energy to those th<strong>in</strong>gs. I got so caught up<br />

with the m<strong>in</strong>or details that some of the bigger th<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

were not given enough attention.<br />

—Irene<br />

THE DETAILS<br />

t<br />

PHOTOGRAPHER Cori Ann Photography<br />

530-307-3770 | coriannphotography.com | See ad on page 233<br />

BRIDE’S ATTIRE <strong>The</strong> Bridal Box<br />

916-742-4638 | thebridalbox.net | See ad on page 175<br />

TURN TO PAGE 202 FOR MORE OF IRENE & NOLAN’S WEDDING PROFESSIONALS<br />

> VISIT OUR WEBSITE REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM FOR A FULL LIST OF IRENE & NOLAN’S<br />

WEDDING PROFESSIONALS ALONG WITH MORE DETAILS, PHOTOS AND TIPS FROM THE COUPLE.<br />

REALWEDDINGSMAG.COM SUMMER/FALL <strong>2019</strong> REAL WEDDINGS | 195


eal wedd<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

KATRINA & DARYL<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY VALLEY IMAGES PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Newlyweds Katr<strong>in</strong>a <strong>and</strong> Daryl have a romantic engagement<br />

story—<strong>and</strong> because Daryl broadcasted it on Facebook<br />

Live, many of Katr<strong>in</strong>a’s friends were also able to<br />

sh<strong>are</strong> <strong>in</strong> the romance, too! “I’m immediately bombarded<br />

by tons of texts, messages, <strong>and</strong> c<strong>all</strong>s,” says the bride.<br />

“Till this day people tell me stories of w<strong>here</strong> they were<br />

<strong>and</strong> what they were do<strong>in</strong>g when they tuned <strong>in</strong>.” Katr<strong>in</strong>a<br />

thought the two were just go<strong>in</strong>g for a walk on the beach,<br />

only to have Daryl propose on the shore. After she said<br />

yes, her p<strong>are</strong>nts, along with Daryl’s mother, stepped<br />

out from beh<strong>in</strong>d a rock to sh<strong>are</strong> <strong>in</strong> the special moment.<br />

<strong>The</strong> duo met dur<strong>in</strong>g a birthday d<strong>in</strong>ner for a friend <strong>in</strong><br />

college <strong>and</strong> dated for a decade before gett<strong>in</strong>g hitched.<br />

<strong>The</strong> celebration was held at the Fitz Place, <strong>in</strong> Santa<br />

Clara’s w<strong>in</strong>e country. <strong>The</strong> venue was a recommendation<br />

from a friend <strong>in</strong> Katr<strong>in</strong>a’s bridal party, <strong>and</strong> it was love at<br />

first site for the bride. “Dur<strong>in</strong>g our first tour I could tell<br />

<strong>in</strong> Katr<strong>in</strong>a’s face that she was completely <strong>in</strong> love with<br />

everyth<strong>in</strong>g about this venue,” he says. “I couldn’t deny<br />

Katr<strong>in</strong>a the venue of her dreams.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> laid back, Bohemian-themed ceremony was held<br />

under an old oak tree <strong>and</strong> <strong>in</strong>cluded a guest appearance<br />

from Ellie, the couple’s maltipoo, <strong>and</strong> Brady, Katr<strong>in</strong>a’s sister’s<br />

dog. <strong>The</strong>y were both dressed to the n<strong>in</strong>es <strong>in</strong> custom<br />

outfits h<strong>and</strong>made by Katr<strong>in</strong>a’s mother.<br />

It wasn’t just the pups that got special treatment <strong>in</strong><br />

the ceremony, however. Daryl <strong>and</strong> Katr<strong>in</strong>a’s officiant,<br />

Matt, asked them each to answer questions about their<br />

relationship prior to the ceremony <strong>and</strong> worked their<br />

responses <strong>in</strong>to his speech on their wedd<strong>in</strong>g day. “Matt<br />

focused on us as a couple <strong>and</strong> was able to truly express<br />

our love for each other <strong>in</strong> words we couldn’t f<strong>in</strong>d ourselves<br />

dur<strong>in</strong>g the ceremony,” Katr<strong>in</strong>a says.<br />

<strong>The</strong> reception was held <strong>in</strong> the same location <strong>and</strong><br />

<strong>in</strong>cluded Mediterranean food, as well as tacos as the<br />

late-night bite. <strong>The</strong>y skipped the cake <strong>and</strong> opted for not<br />

one but two dessert offer<strong>in</strong>gs to satisfy their collective<br />

sweet tooth: churros, picked by Daryl, <strong>and</strong> bib<strong>in</strong>gka, a<br />

Filip<strong>in</strong>o coconut-rice pastry from B<strong>in</strong>ka<br />

Bites, a bakery <strong>in</strong> San Francisco that Katr<strong>in</strong>a<br />

loves.<br />