NOVEMBER 18th
When it came to envisioning their elevated fall wedding at CASS winery, Lizzy and Ryan knew they wanted lots of flowers, light, and candles to set the scene for a free-flowing evening where their guests could linger and enjoy themselves. With a neutral color palette of white, champagne, and olive accents, their wedding design was a perfect marriage of natural simplicity and understated elegance.
Lizzy and Ryan are high school sweethearts—they first met their senior year during the homecoming skit, when Lizzy was the singer and Ryan filled in for the drummer last-minute. They have been best friends and life partners ever since! After 11 years together, on a day trip to Half Moon Bay, they pulled off at a lookout point along Highway 1—a place that was particularly special to their relationship, as it had represented "strength and peace" to them when Lizzy was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012—and it was there that Ryan proposed to Lizzy, an intimate moment shared with just the two of them.
CEREMONY
The wedding day arrived with a perfect, clear blue sky. Before their special day commenced, the couple stole a quiet moment away for a first look on a hillside overlooking the vineyards. A few hours later, their ceremony was held under the canopy of a magnificent oak tree, surrounded by miles of grapevines whose brown branches added an autumnal flair. Lizzy's mom and dad walked her down the aisle, arm-in-arm, and the couple exchanged their heartfelt vows in the presence of all their loved ones. A romantic beginning to a perfect day!
RECEPTION
The reception featured a blend of round and farmhouse-style tables, adorned with greenery centerpieces and white taper candles for a natural but elevated atmosphere. Each place setting was set with an olive-green napkin, into which we tucked a menu and a sprig of greenery from my garden. A curtain of twinkle lights was draped behind the sweetheart table, creating a subtle and enchanting glow for the festivities.
The memory wall, showcasing the couple's love story through photographs, allowed guests to share in the narrative of their journey together. It served as a heartfelt reminder of the love the couple shares and the moments that led them to this celebratory day.
DINNER & DANCING
As the sun went down, the real celebration began! We started the evening with a splash of fun: a celebratory champagne tower pour. Guests entered the reception, champagne in hand, listening to our upbeat band, Come Alive Entertainment. They took center stage, providing live music that kept the energy high all night long. The newlyweds' beloved dog, Gus, even made an appearance too!
DESSERT
The dessert table was a sweet tribute to Ryan's dad, who passed away almost two years ago. Since Ryan and his dad would always go get donuts together, Lizzy & Ryan decided to incorporate an array of donuts on the dessert table as a sweet tribute to his memory, in addition to the traditional cutting cake.
DREAM TEAM
I loved working alongside this incredible vendor team to make Lizzy & Ryan's special day come to life. Cheers to a lifetime of love and happiness for the newlyweds!
COORDINATION & DESIGN: @zestitup
VENUE: @casswineryweddings
PHOTO: @nicolaleighphoto
VIDEO: @captivatingvideography
FLORAL: @byrequestus
MUAH: @thequeensbees
DRESS: @sarahseven
SUIT: @knotstandard
RENTALS: @allaboutevents
CATERING & BAR: @cass_winery
DESSERT: @slodoco
LIVE MUSIC/DJ/MC: @comealiveentertainment
SHUTTLE: @slosaferide
xo,
Sam
Blog post by Olivia Cook