Wine Not?

"My only regret in life is that I did not drink more champagne." - John Maynard Keynes

This past weekend, I had the privilege of spending a couple of days in Napa and Sonoma, California (aka my happy place) to celebrate my sister's birthday.  With the rolling hills, picturesque views at every glance, and a laid back community, it is no doubt why Napa and Sonoma Counties are within the most popular destinations throughout the United States. Whether you are there for a little R&R, wine tastings or to dine at some of the most renowned restaurants; wine country is truly heaven on earth.

On my visit through the wineries, I kept day dreaming of a wedding on the lush and charming grounds.  Each property was more beautiful than the next and would make an idyllic wedding backdrop.  The scenes are filled with barrels of wine, grapevines, wine cork accessories and jaw-dropping wood accents.  Some of the wineries have a more modern feel while others have an old-world sense that could only be replicated in the likes of France or Italy.

Below are some photos of real weddings in the Napa and Sonoma region featured on Style Me Pretty:

Napa Wedding on a private property - see full gallery here

Ceremony and reception at Hans Fahden Winery in Calistoga - full gallery here 

Wedding at The Carneros Inn - more stunning photos here

Garden Napa wedding at Beaulieu Gardens - don't miss this gallery

Sonoma wedding at Gundlach Bundschu - more photos here

Below are some fun 'wine-inspired' details to add to your ceremony or reception:

Corks, grapes and empty wine bottles used as centerpieces - found on Pinterest

Place your rings on a cork for a great photo op - Pinterest

Cork place holders found on Etsy

"I Do" display made of corks - sold on Etsy

'Happily Ever After' wine bottle favor bag - sold on Wedding Chicks

Stop and smell the rosé.

Yours Truly,

A

It's Getting Hot in Here

"Summer heat, boy and girl meet, but uh-oh those summer nights"  Summer Nights, Grease 

With the heat wave upon us, it is quite clear that summer is here! For all the brides that have spent the last year planning their big day, it is impossible to let a little humidity get in their way.  However, your guests might not agree.  Embracing an outdoor ceremony will be a little tough when your skirt is stuck to the backs of your legs and your hair has glued itself to your forehead.  Think of them sitting under the scorching sun and plan ahead for your outdoor nuptials and consider turning your wedding ceremony programs into fans! They are practical, charming and your guests will be thanking you in this hot and sticky weather.

Below are some "chilling" examples:

This stylish fan comes in an array of colors and can be found on Etsy

White and coral fans found at Martha Stewart Weddings - download template HERE and make them yourself!!

Chandelier Estate Opulence Fan Program by Citrine Designs 

Bright yellow heart shaped fans - photos from Style Me Pretty

Wedding Party Program - found on Style Me Pretty

A basket of fans as guests enter your ceremony - Pinterest

We think these are FANtastic!

Until Next Time,

A & S