A big part of our jobs here at Bridal Musings is narrowing down hundreds of beautiful wedding pictures to a tight collection of pictures that tells the story of a wedding day, while also giving our readers lots of inspiration for their own nuptials.
But today our job was extra tough. Natalie and Garrett's al fresco vineyard wedding by Sarah Kathleen Photography was so full of pretty ideas and gorgeous images that it was close to impossible to whittle them down.
So apologies in advance if this post is a little longer than usual – but I promise it's so worth scrolling all the way to the end (Spoiler altert: There's a bruschetta bar!)
Littered with personal touches, stylish details, and fun activities Natalie and Garrett's wedding was a romantic and rustic celebration, bringing the indoors outside with vintage style furniture, chalkboard signage and sweet framed features.
Natalie's was just beautiful in a strapless Lazaro wedding dress, Garrett, dashing, in a navy Calvin Klein suit, while the bridesmaids kept the California country vibes going, with pretty lace dresses and cowboy boots.
A ceremony under the shade of a tree, an al fresco feast in the sunshine, and drinks and dancing in the barn for afters – this wedding is yet another example of why Californian winery weddings are so impossibly gorgeous…
Wedding Day Snapshot
Get your Pin It button prepped (we mean it!) and prepare to be inspired by Natalie and Garrett's stunning wedding…
Favourite Moment
I know this is cliché, but the entire day was my favorite moment!
If I had to pick one though, it would be when I had some time alone with my Dad before my grand entrance and I saw the venue for the first time.
We had a car drive over a hill at the back of the property and once we got to the top off the hill, I was able to get a birds-eye view of my entire wedding venue.
The party was all lined up, the decorations in place, all the guests seated and I could see my husband standing there, waiting for me to arrive.
Since I had been hiding out, I did not get to see the progression of guests arrive, so having that big reveal was magical. It felt as though everything I worked for over the past year, came together in that moment, in that snapshot.
Everything became real in that instant. And I shared that excitement with my dad. It was truly special.
The Inspiration
The inspiration for the look of our day came from my love of all things unique and eclectic.
I knew I wanted something feminine and romantic, that would blend well with the beautiful natural elements of our venue, and was comfortable for our guests.
I wanted the perfect mix of romantic and rustic, feminine and masculine, vintage and earthy. I knew I didn't want to have a “signature” color that plastered itself all over every detail, so I decided to incorporate certain materials (burlap, linen and lace) instead.
They added such charm and character, giving a softness and warmth to the rustic, vintage pieces.
Advice for Other Couples
I know the day is all about the bride and groom, but be sure to keep your guests in mind as you plan things to make sure they are not bored.
Not everyone wants to dance all night, and sitting around waiting for your feet to stop aching can get old really quick, so make sure there are other things (dessert bar, S'mores station, photo booth, games, pictures, slideshow, etc…) to keep your guests entertained and the energy level up.
Also, do not underestimate the amount of alcohol your guests will drink and make sure you help make your playlist personal!
Isn't it just amazing – so many thoughtful details and pretty features. I love Natalie's description of coming over the hill and seeing it all laid out in front of her, what a vision!
Thanks so much to the super talented Sarah Kathleen Photography and of course, Natalie and Garrett for sharing their stylish vineyard wedding with us.
Tell us, are you planning to borrow any ideas from Natalie and Garrett's wedding day?
Love this wedding? Take a look at more Chic + Rustic Real Weddings.
