As many of my clients, friends and family know
I left the flower business a few years back.
I'm having a blast doing commercial design.
(Currently working on a remodel of a resort in Calistoga.
And just started redesigning a major winery's tasting room
Yeeha.)
But then a friend asked that I design
her daughter's wedding.
And my friend has exceptional taste.
More importantly
she is one of those dream clients that say,
"Just do your thing"
How could I say no?
For starters, here's the
entrance to her house
where the weekend festivities began.
Do you see what I mean?
Whoa.
The ceremony was in the backyard.
Uber simple.
So important not to, "gild the lily"
when it comes to the Napa Valley.
16 guests.
I reveled in the intimacy.
After the ceremony guests
enjoyed
wine on the patio.
Dinner was
at one long table.
Apparently toasting and conversation
went in to the wee hours of the morning.
The nearby pizza oven kept everyone warm.
The next day was the reception for 100 guests.
At my friend's winery - just as stunning as her home.
(She produces a cult wine with a private following.
Her waiting list has a waiting list.)
The setting called for more natural elements.
Too many flowers would have seemed
over the top, not appropriate.
And as few linens as possible.
Convincing the bartenders it was okay to see under the table took time.
While designing the buffet
I felt I had died and gone to Heaven.
The European setting,
every single element - a designer's dream.
Oh, and when the food arrived it actually was icing on the cake :)
Seating was provided inside and out.
A bit of a hot day.
The stone walls kept the room
naturally cool.
The perfect spot for displaying the cake,
at the entrance to the cave.
Where a disco was set up
way down under.
Again, the merriment and dancing went late, late.
Such a great design experience
for a great friend.
