Marianna and Darwin, June 4th, 2011
I adore each wedding we plan, but is there a more memorable one than your own little sister’s? Unlikely. This couple, high school sweet hearts, have been together for the past 7 years. Choosing a theme of family traditions was so clear for them. Details shots to come will showcase their theme and feel of their special day. Be sure to check back for photos of their guest favors: an old family recipe of pepper jelly. Marianna hand made the jelly with her future mother in law. From the old photos of grandparents on their wedding day displayed in the barn to the table names of past and present family pets, this day was comfortable, classy, and pulled on every heart string.
Marianna and Darwin’s wedding was held at River Highlands Ranch in Smartsville, just outside of Grass Valley. What was planned as an incredible summer day wedding utilizing the perfectly groomed ceremony tiered lawn turned into the most incredible rainy day wedding. I wouldn’t be surprised to hear guests recounting this event and forgetting that the rain was even a factor. We had enough time (3 days!) to regroup and find one of the last tents available in our area. This afforded us some additional space and the ability to use the ‘outdoors’ for the ceremony. Thank you clear sided tent for that!
Simply changing ice cold lemonade to hot coco with marshmallows and whipped cream created an intentional event that appeared to be planned for rain (never in the plan!). From the tent, heat lamps, and fire pit to the incredibly warm and comfortable group of guests, this day is sure to be remembered. I learned how useful market umbrellas can be in the rain as they were placed to keep the s’mores station by the fire pit dry from the sprinkles.
The barn is a dream space to create a perfect flow and we did just that. The cocktail hour was filled with the sound of shakers at the specialty martini bar, and the photobooth by Mr. DJ Service was a hit even before dinner. Dinner was spectacular with paired wines and family style food service by Chris Jackson Catering and Events. The bride claims the food was even better than the food at their tasting which almost never happens for anyone! The dinning portion of the barn made my heart skip a beat and felt just like Marianna and what we had envisioned early on. Martha, with Blooms by Martha Andrews, was given some basic ideas and then allowed floral designer freedom to create what we described without boundaries. We trusted her whole heartedly and she knocked it out of the park. Though the vineyards were supposed to be the backdrop to the incredible dining room in the barn with the doors flung open, we improvised and added a backdrop, moss lettering, and up lights for a breathtaking effect.
The day was full of the ‘dream team’ in action. This included the vendors above in addition to photography and video by the Memory Journalist (huge team! Thank you Jen, Kelly, Keith and Kirsten), entertainment, MC, and lighting by Mr. DJ Service, wedding cakes by Sweet Cakes by Rebecca, and rentals though both Classic Party Rentals and Celebrations Party Rentals. The ceremony was officiated by one of Marianna and Darwin’s high school teachers whom they both admired tremendously. Last, but not least, an extra shout out to our adorable paper pieces by Bella Vita Invitations and Invitations Ink…can’t have just one, right?!
I suppose I forgot to mention that Catrina Maria Designs did plan this event; I was of course, also a Matron of Honor. Being the smart planner that I am, I handed over the reins to my long time best friend and planner, Michaela Rodgers of Plush Weddings. With my assistant, the amazing Katie, they teamed up to allow me a stress free day with my family. I will be forever grateful for being able to fully enjoy this time and be the best MOH possible.
I imagine Costa Rica is warm and amazing and each day will be sunny for these two! Wishing Marianna and Darwin a perfectly sunny life together!
Catrina Maria Event Planning & Design 