Beaulieu Garden Wedding Film | Nicole + Tim

Nicole and Tim’s summer wedding at the breathtaking Beaulieu Vineyards was nothing short of magical. Nestled in Napa Valley, this venue’s pristine gardens and lush floral surroundings set a stunning scene for a truly unforgettable celebration. The meticulous planning by Kristina Elyse’s team elevated every detail, creating a perfect atmosphere that felt both timeless and intimate, making each moment feel even more special.

The day began at The Estate Yountville, where the couple got ready surrounded by elegance before heading to the vineyards for their vows. The team at Bella Nozze adorned the venue with florals that complemented the natural beauty of the gardens, while Shimmer and Stain created elegant stationery and signage, adding a touch of artistry to the event’s aesthetic.

Capturing each beautiful moment, Kristine Herman Photography documented the day’s magic, from the heartfelt ceremony to the lively celebration that followed. During the ceremony, live strings by Corelli Strings provided a beautiful, elegant atmosphere. Later, as guests transitioned to the reception, DJ Ryan Hernandez kept the energy high with an impressive mix of DJing and live saxophone, creating a memorable party atmosphere.

The couple’s style shone through in every detail – from the bride’s stunning look, styled by Vanessa Luna Makeup and Margarita Bridal Hair, to the elegant décor coordinated with rentals from Hensley Event Resources and Bright Event Rentals, with linens by BBJ La Tavola. As guests traveled in style with California Wine Tours, the day felt like a perfect, seamless celebration of love and joy.

From start to finish, Nicole and Tim’s wedding was pure magic – a day filled with beauty, love, and unforgettable memories in one of Napa Valley’s most stunning venues.

✨

Planning: @eventsbykristinaelyse
Photography: @kristineherman_
Wedding Venue + Catering: @paulaleduc
Getting Ready + After Party Venue: @theestateyountville
Florist: @bellanozze
Stationery + Signage: @shimmerandstain
DJ: @ryan_hernandez_official
Strings: @corellistrings
Cake: @flourandbloomcakes
Rentals: @hensleyeventresources + @brighteventrentals
Linen: @bbjlatavola
Bridal Makeup: @vanessalunamakeup
Bridal Hair: @margarita_bridalhair
Transportation: @calwinetours

Deer Park Villa Wedding Film | Fairfax, CA

This wedding was nothing short of magical, set among towering redwoods and lush forest landscapes at the beautiful Deer Park Villa. The day was a celebration of families coming together, symbolizing new beginnings and a shared journey for the newlyweds. With the majestic redwoods as their backdrop, every moment was infused with nature’s beauty and a sense of closeness.

The couple’s joy was infectious, and their love for each other and their families was evident in every glance and gesture. Surrounded by loved ones, they created memories that will last a lifetime. The atmosphere felt warm and inviting, thanks to the seamless planning by Joyeux Events, gorgeous florals by Astra Florals, and rentals from Casanova Rentals. Kelly Marie Photography captured each precious moment, preserving the intimate beauty of the day.

The bride looked radiant in her dress from Flares Bridal, with hair and makeup by Polish and Pout, while the catering by California Rose Catering added the perfect touch of local flavor, keeping guests happy and well-fed. It was a day filled with laughter, love, and a deep sense of connection among family and friends.

🌲

photo: @_kellymariephotography
venue: @dpvweddings
planning: @joyeuxevents
floral: @astra.florals
catering: @californiarosecatering
rentals: @casanovarentals
MUAH: @polishandpout
dress: @flaresbridal

Hyatt Carmel Highlands Wedding Film | Emily + JM

Emily and JM’s wedding at the scenic Highlands Inn perfectly captured the beauty of the Big Sur coastline. Set against sweeping ocean views, their day was filled with sweet, loving moments, from the way they looked at each other during the vows to their shared laughter throughout the evening. Their Shiba Inu, Elsa, joined them in the ceremony, bringing extra warmth and charm to an already heartfelt day.

The celebration was as lively as it was beautiful, with a fun, party-like atmosphere from start to finish. Coordinated by Plascencia Emily, with florals by Expressions Floral Designs and rentals from Chic Event Rentals, every detail came together seamlessly. Lynn Lewis Photography documented it all, capturing the joy and closeness of each moment.

Emily looked stunning in her Vera Wang gown, styled by Beauty with Cherie, while JM was equally dapper in his suit from The Black Tux. As the sun set, the party kicked into high gear, with Central Coast Entertainment keeping everyone on the dance floor, ending a day that truly felt like one big celebration of love.

🌊🐕

Photographer: @lynnlewisphotography
Venue: @highlandsinn
Coordinator: @plascenciaemily
Florals: @expressionsfloraldesigns
Dress: @verawangbride #verawangbride
Hair/Makeup: @beautywithcherie
Groom’s Attire: @theblacktux
Officiant: @montereyweddingofficiant
Rentals: @chiceventrentals
DJ: @central_coast_entertainment

Park Winters Wedding Film | Jenna + Michael

Jenna and Michael’s wedding at the beautiful Park Winters was a stunning celebration set against scenic farmland and blooming wildflowers. The day perfectly captured the essence of country charm, as family and friends gathered to celebrate love in a serene, natural setting.

Each moment was thoughtfully planned, from heartfelt vows exchanged under open skies to a lively evening of dancing and laughter. The day-of coordination by Simple Country Weddings ensured everything ran smoothly, allowing Jenna and Michael to enjoy every part of their day worry-free. Kelly Boitano Photography beautifully captured the memories, framing each moment with the gorgeous landscapes of Park Winters.

The celebration came to life as DJ Barnett Entertainment brought everyone to the dance floor, creating an unforgettable evening. Witnessing Jenna and Michael’s day was a privilege, and I’m grateful to have been part of such a joyful, love-filled event.

🌸

Day of Coordination | @simplecountryweddings
Photographer | @kellyboitanophoto
Venue | @parkwinters
DJ | @djbarnettentertainment

Tre Posti Wedding Film in St Helena, CA

Madina and Louisa’s wedding at the Tre Posti vineyard in St. Helena, CA, was a profound celebration of love and connection. Amid the rolling hills and verdant vineyards of California’s wine country, close friends and family gathered for an intimate ceremony that spoke to the heart.

Despite the intense heat—over 110 degrees—Madina, Louisa, and their guests embraced the day with grace, letting the warmth of the sun mirror the warmth of their celebration. The small gathering fostered an atmosphere of closeness, where every smile, every word, felt deeply meaningful.

As day turned to night, the celebration transformed. Under a sky full of stars, the vineyard came alive with the sound of music, the rhythm of dancing, and the quiet joy of a love fully realized. What started as a sunlit ceremony evolved into a night filled with life, laughter, and a sense of belonging.

In their union, Madina and Louisa affirmed not just their love for one another, but the simple, enduring truth that love, in all its forms, is meant to be celebrated.🥂

Venue: Tre Posti

Planner: Run Away With Me Weddings

Alila Ventana Big Sur Elopement Film | Erick + Helen

Erick and Helen’s intimate elopement at the stunning Alila Ventana property in Big Sur was nothing short of breathtaking. Surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of the Big Sur Coast, this heartfelt celebration was a perfect reflection of their love—a day filled with serenity, natural beauty, and profound emotion.

The couple chose to say their vows in a secluded spot, encircled by towering redwoods. As they stood beneath these ancient giants, the sun filtered through the branches, casting a warm, golden glow on their ceremony. It was a truly magical moment, with the natural splendor of Big Sur serving as both witness and backdrop to their union.

The Alila Ventana property, known for its luxurious and serene ambiance, provided the perfect setting for this elopement. With its breathtaking views of the rugged California coastline and the tranquil embrace of the redwood forest, it offered a sanctuary where Erick and Helen could celebrate their love in privacy and peace.

Erick and Helen’s elopement was a reminder that sometimes, the most meaningful moments come in the quiet, unassuming spaces where nature and love converge. Their day was not only a celebration of their commitment but also an homage to the incredible beauty of Big Sur. 🌲🌲

Venue: Alila Ventana Big Sur

Photography: Lynn Lewis Photography

Saratoga Springs Wedding Film | Alanna + Nick

Alanna and Nick’s intimate Saratoga Springs wedding, set among the majestic redwoods of Saratoga, CA, was a truly special event filled with personal touches and unique quirks that made their day unforgettable. The couple’s love for all things vintage and antique was evident in every detail, from the decor to the charming flourishes that brought their personalities to life.

One of the standout moments was when guests waved whimsical wands as Alanna and Nick walked down the aisle, creating a magical atmosphere. In a nod to their playful spirit, they even rolled a D20 dice to determine the “vow initiative,” adding a fun and unexpected twist to the ceremony.

Alanna and Nick’s wedding was a perfect reflection of their vibrant and quirky personalities, making it a day that their friends and family will always remember. This Saratoga Springs wedding was not just a celebration of love, but a showcase of the couple’s unique bond and the joy they bring to everyone around them. 🌲

Team:
@saratogaspringsweddings
@joshharneyproductions
@nmsmithsuper8films
@_jrdproductions
@laurenzachmeierphotography
@california_wedding_harpist
@pourgirl
@thehotpinkbox
@handjflowers
@kimbakerbeauty
@wtoowatters

Léal Vineyards Olea Wedding Film | Teri + John

Teri and John’s wedding at the stunning Léal Vineyards Olea in Hollister, CA, was truly magical. Every moment of this vineyard wedding was filled with joy, laughter, and heartfelt celebration alongside their closest friends and family. Nestled in the scenic hills of Central California, Léal Vineyards provided the perfect backdrop for a day brimming with love and happiness. Teri and John’s deep connection was evident in every glance, touch, and smile, making this an unforgettable occasion. 😍

Photography: @cmsoursphotography

Venue: @liveloveleal

Florals: @luxe.leal

5 Mindfulness Practices to Ensure You're Fully Present on Your Wedding Day

Your wedding day is not just an event; it's a tapestry of moments and emotions meant to be experienced fully, not just lived through. As someone who has been filming weddings and elopements for over a decade, I've had the privilege of witnessing countless couples navigate their special day. Those who are truly present stand out. Their joy is palpable, their connections deeper, and their memories more vivid. My hope and goal for every couple is that they can intentionally curate a day that keeps them in the present moment, engaging all their senses, and allows them to lay aside all worries and concerns, embracing every moment of their beautiful celebration of love.

Here are five mindfulness practices to help ensure you're fully present and joyfully connected on your wedding day:

1. Start Mindfully

The tone for your day is set the moment you wake up. Carve out 15-20 minutes before the flurry of the day begins for practices that ground you and bring your mind into a state of calm alertness. Meditation, deep breathing, or a gentle yoga session can center your thoughts and emotions. Engaging all your senses from the start encourages a mindset of awareness and appreciation for all the beautiful intricacies of the day to come.

2. Engage All Your Senses

The beauty of your wedding day lies in the details—the light fragrance of your bouquet, the intricate flavors of your meal, the texture of your dress or suit, the visual beauty of your surroundings, and the sounds of your environment filling the air. Actively use all five senses. Whether it's feeling the warmth of the sun or the cool drops of rain, tasting and savoring the carefully chosen menu, or listening intently to the timbre of your partner's vows, let these sensory experiences anchor you in the now. Soak in and cherish every little detail.

3. Cultivate Gratitude

Take moments throughout your day to reflect on the journey that has brought you here. Think of the people who have supported you, those who are celebrating with you, and those who could not be with you but are there in spirit. A gratitude practice enhances your emotional connection to the day, shifting focus from the superficial to the substantial, and enriching your wedding with deeper significance.

4. Embrace the Unexpected

As you step into the celebration, let go of lingering expectations and embrace the day as it unfolds. The perfection of your wedding isn't found in flawless execution but in the genuine moments of connection and love. Your focus should reside with the person you are committing to forever and the people who have gathered to celebrate with you—live in those interactions, not in the logistics. Whether it’s unexpected rainfall, or a blemish on a dress, acknowledge your feelings about what’s happened, recognize it’s out of your control, and shift your focus from frustration to finding peace with the situation. Also, you can lean on your support system, which may include your partner, family, and wedding team, to ask for help or emotional support to navigate through these surprises.

5. Take Time for Yourself

In the whirl of activities—from photos to socializing—it's vital to steal a few moments for yourself and your partner. Take time during your portrait session or right after your ceremony to just be together, to soak in the realization of your marriage. These moments of solitude are precious, allowing you both to connect deeply and reflect on your commitment before stepping back into the celebration. At some point in most portrait sessions with just the couple, I try to encourage the couple to take a minute to themselves, no direction, no prompts. Not only does this give the couple permission to slow down and absorb the essence of the moment, but it also yields some really sweet, genuine moments for video and photo.

---

Integrating these mindfulness practices into your wedding day doesn't just ensure that you're present; it elevates the day from a series of events to a deeply felt experience. As someone who captures these moments for a living, I can attest to the tangible difference mindfulness makes. It's seen in the way couples interact, in the depth of their smiles, and in the warmth of their embraces. Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—embrace it, savor it, and be truly present for it. It will produce a heightened appreciation for the day, as well as a deepened emotional connection enriched with lasting memories of joy and love.

Stanly Ranch Wedding Film | Hannah + Jay

Experience the elegance and fun of Hannah and Jay's wedding day in their captivating film, set amidst the pristine beauty of Stanly Ranch in Napa, CA. With chic details and classic style, their celebration was a perfect blend of sophistication and joy. Join them as they exchange vows in a venue adorned with great care and planning, creating an unforgettable day filled with love and laughter against the picturesque backdrop of Napa Valley. 🙌✨

Planning & Design @downeystreetevents
Photography @danitoscanophoto
Floral Design @studiomondine
Venue @stanlyranchauberge
Hair and Makeup @sherrielong
Paper @bournepaperco
Cake @flourandbloomcakes
Rentals @foundrentalco @encoreeventsrentals

Barns at Cooper Molera Wedding Film | Jessica + Alex

Explore the elegance of Jessica and Alex's wedding in their film, captured at the picturesque Barns at Cooper Molera in Monterey, CA. Featuring ornate, stunning floral displays and a grand celebration, this wedding is a visual delight. Dive into a day marked by luxurious blooms and joyful moments, all set against the rustic charm of one of Monterey's most beloved venues. Witness their love bloom in this beautifully captured wedding film. 🫶🌸

Planning @eventsbyclassic
Photo @goldenwestphotos @lizzylutzphoto
Floral @cassia.foret
Venue @barnsatcoopermolera
Rentals @chiceventrentals
DJ @dnaentertainment

Yosemite National Park Elopement | Morgan + Michael

Experience the pure and touching moments of Morgan and Michael's intimate elopement in the ethereal landscapes of Yosemite National Park. This film showcases a serene celebration of love among the majestic mountains and ancient forests, with only their closest loved ones in attendance. Discover the natural beauty and quiet splendor that framed their unforgettable day in this captivating elopement film.

“Time stands still when we’re together” ✨⛰️

w/ @hellobrandonscott + @yosemiteweddingofficiant

Post Ranch Inn Coastal Big Sur Elopement Film

“Thank you for rescuing me; my heart. Thank you for restoring my faith, and above all, thank you for saving me. My name may be Love, but what you showed me is the true definition of the word. For you are my love, my king, my everything.” On that unforgettable wedding day, Love and Carl exchanged some of the most touching vows I have ever had the privilege of hearing. Their love for each other was palpable as they stood together in an intimate elopement ceremony at the breathtaking Post Ranch Inn, overlooking the vast Big Sur Coastline ✨🌲

photo: @joshuagrantrose

Yokayo Ranch Wedding Film in Ukiah, CA

Holly Farm Wedding Film | Katy + Bill

Amidst towering trees and vibrant flora at The Holly Farm, in the heart for Carmel Valley, Katy & Bill’s hearts converged. Their love, as profound as ancient roots, bloomed brilliantly, every sunlit moment echoing their undying bond. Their reception was of epic proportions with everything from an Ice Luge, and a 420 bar, to disco balls, and the grooviest dance floor imaginable. It was an honor to capture such a legendary wedding day 🌿🌸


venue: @the_holly_farm

photo: @mariellehayes_photo

HAMU: @blushmonterey

Trentadue Winery Wedding Film in Geyserville, CA

Montage Healdsburg Wedding Film | Kelly + Matthew

Montage Healdsburg once again proved to be the perfect backdrop for the celebration of love and unity. The effervescent energy of the newlyweds, Kelly + Matthew, illuminated all of their picturesque vineyards, basking in the warm glow of the sun. Their wedding day was a testament to pure joy and happiness, blending seamlessly with the natural beauty surrounding them. 🍇

venue: @montagehealdsburg

plan: @lvlweddings

photo: @carliestatsky

Point 16 Big Sur Coastal Wedding Film

Triple S Ranch Wedding Film in Calistoga, CA

Glen Oaks Big Sur Elopement Film in the Redwoods of Big Sur

Sun-kissed redwoods bear witness to a tale of love as old as the trees themselves. A memory etched forever amidst the ancient Big Sur forest. 🌲 🫶

There is something innately magical about the ancient redwoods of Big Sur - they stand tall and proud, their bark kissed by the sun and their roots deeply entwined with the earth. They've witnessed centuries pass by, bearing silent testimony to countless stories, and on this special day, they bore witness to a tale of love as timeless as the trees themselves.

This remarkable couple chose to embark on their new journey together amidst these centuries-old redwoods, basking in the soft, radiant glow of the Californian sun. A fitting start for a love story that promised to be as enduring and resilient as the forest itself.

Their story serves as a beautiful reminder that love, much like the redwoods, stands strong and tall, radiating warmth and life. This sun-kissed elopement in the redwoods of Big Sur is a testament to their everlasting love story, a tale that, like the forest, will continue to grow, thrive, and stand the test of time.

💒:Glen Oaks Big Sur

📷: Heather Purdy

💐: fancypansyartdesign