Ashleigh and Sam put together beautiful bohemian and vintage details for their backyard California wedding. Holding the event at Ashleigh’s aunt and uncle’s house was a natural fit and allowed them to decorate as they pleased. This couple brought their love of books and nature into the ceremony area with stacks of their favorites topped with flowers. We love Ashleigh’s ivy flower crown and striking bouquet featuring ferns, protea, and dahlia. The bridesmaids wore varying full length dresses all kept within a neutral blush, grey, blue palette – a look that is individual yet cohesive at the same time. Read more on this couple below. Thank you to Christina O’Brien Photography for sharing their lovely day!
From the Bride…
How we met:
We were set up by a mutual friend and met for drinks at Small Bar in University Heights. It was a great first date! It started off with all three of us so it was easy and fun. After our friend left it was just Sam and me, and we talked for HOURS. It was a week night, so we kept saying we would wrap it up but kept talking until midnight. Sam and I spoke throughout the entire next day and made plans for that weekend. I wasn’t used to a guy being so honest and up front with what he wanted and he made me laugh. I was a bit more reserved, but he dove in, and clearly it worked.
Wedding day inspiration:
We love reading. Of course I had to represent Pride and Prejudice, Little Women and A Mid Summers Night Dream. Though Sam is into Sci fi, we both enjoy history and non-fiction. We choose the colors and themes based on a natural, somewhat boho, outdoor look. My aunt’s house is already so beautiful on its own so we knew it would be perfect for the intimate feel we wanted. Leah was able to create arrangements and decorations that highlighted the venue and feel.
On the venue:
We have celebrated everything from Christmas to family dinners at my aunt and uncle’s house. My family put in so much effort, creativity and unique design. We were able to do whatever we wanted and make it us. My parents upholstered the furniture for the vignettes. My in-laws, aunts and cousins helped put crystals in the trees, family photos around the venue and planted flowers in the fountain. Our vendors were able to bring their unique ideas and design to the event and really got into it, which was incredible. The reception was on their driveway, their driveway! And it looked like a courtyard.
Favorite moment (from the reception):
Sam and I stepped aside to breath and the best man came up to us and told us to stop and look and just let it sink in. We saw our 148 guests that we love dearly and that love us. The dance floor was full with everyone, at every age, from every group; people were laughing, talking, catching up, and meeting for the first time. It was beautiful. It’s easy to forget why you are having a wedding, why you give up a year full of weekends to try on dresses and discuss budgets. Then you see everyone you love, everyone who has made you who you are and who will support you in the next step you take, and you realize it was worth it.
Photography: Christina O’Brien Photography / Coordination + Catering + Rentals: The Abbey Catering (Megan Lessert) / Venue: Private residence / Floral Design: Bespoke Occasions / Bride’s Gown: Mon Amie Bridal / Shoes: Nordstrom / Hair: Christine Doughty / Makeup: My Girls on Film / Cake: Kuba Kreations / Stationery: Wedding Paper Divas / Officiant: John Assaraf (Uncle of Bride) / DJ: Electrifying Entertainment
Her crown! <3 Gorgeous wedding