Sonoma Garden Wedding

Vignettes from an unforgettably whimsical garden wedding at Beltane Ranch in Glen Ellen, Sonoma Valley, California.

Madeline and Matt

Her delicate dress of embroidered French cotton lace, buttons all down the back.

His whimsical olive linen suit lined with citrons.

Her crown of dried flowers affixed with a splash of orange ribbon.

The magical lane of Persian rugs leading down the aisle to the towering majesty of the live oak draped in a shawl of flowers.

The dulcet tones of their friend/officiant’s southern twang.

The ethereal light reflecting off her vows and onto her alabaster cheek.

The fine line between tears and riotous laughter that was crossed again and again as Madeline and Matt exchanged vows.

The air suffuse with dried flower petals as they ecstatically flew back down the aisle. As if all the world were filled with flower petals cascading through the air.

Whatever they told their guests to wear worked out just about right, cocktail hour a sea of floral prints and colorful summer suits scattered across the lawn, sipping Mavericks and Roosters.

Come Together, I Want To Hold Your Hand, And I Love Her, She Loves You, Here Comes the Sun, Strawberry Fields Forever.

Wally the sheep with his glorious floral crown somewhat bashful, nibbling the lawn, but also delighted by all the attention, especially from Madeline, his greatest fan.

The caricaturist hard at work sketching guests.

Her brother’s cow and sheep cufflinks.

The chickens promenading through cocktail hour, and round the reception tables.

Designed by Madeline, each escort card a flower petal, waiting to be plucked by a guest from its field of blossoms.

Stargazer, bluebell, marigold, poppy, peony demarcating each baroque tablescape with long paisley tablecloths, intricately detailed amber goblets. Everything designed and drawn by Madeline. One had the sense this was not the first tea party Madeline had hosted.

Chicken cake! Surrounded by holstein pops, cartons of cake eggs and cake chicks, mini hay bale cakes, carrot cakes in the shape of carrots.

A day so thoroughly governed by whimsy and the unexpected.

Delights at every corner.

Love Me Do, Eight Days a Week, Free as a Bird, Don’t Let Me Down, Octopus’s Garden.

Also, the pair of original songs with which Madeline and Matt serenaded their guests. Her gleeful recorder solo against the setting sun.

A rainbow of ombre tapers burning against the dying light of the head table.

And if all this, somehow, wasn’t quite enough, an exquisite sunset sidled in as Madeline & Matt’s wedding day came to it’s conclusion.

Who amongst us succeeds in bringing so many chapters of the magic of childhood into her wedding? Very few I say, none quite like Madeline & Matt in this past decade that I have documented.

Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, bride and groom in flower garden
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, florals on oak tree
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, garden party wedding dress  lace details
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, lace wedding dress details
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, wedding portraits
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, custom linen suit
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, detail linen green suit
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, dried flower crown bride
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, ceremony aisle, oak tree ceremony, napa, vineyard view
spring summer wedding florals, Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, spring summer florals
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, spring summer florals
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, ceremony, florals on oak tree.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, wedding ceremony guests
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, recessional, dried flowers
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, recessional
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, recessional detail.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, cocktail hour, documentary wedding photography
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, custom cocktails
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, cocktail hour, wally the sheep
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, wally the sheep, lamb
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, wally the sheep, lamb
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, wally the sheep, lamb
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, custom seating chart, DIY
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, custom seating chart, DIY
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, DIY seating table.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, garden party attire guests
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, garden party attire guests,
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, garden party attire
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, garden party attire, fancy cufflinks
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, garden party attire, caricatures, cocktail hour
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, garden party attire, caricatures, cocktail hour
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, ranch chickens
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, ranch chickens
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, whimsical table setting, garden party.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, whimsical table setting, garden party, tapered candles, bud vases
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, tapered candle tablescape.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, whimsical table setting, garden party. hand drawn table signs.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, tapered candle tablescape.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, tapered candle tablescape.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, florals
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, dessert tabling setting, chicken wedding cake
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, dessert tabling setting,
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, cake cutting.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, cake cutting.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, guest attire
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, garden party chic wedding guest attire
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, dinner time
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, dance
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, first dance
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, guests.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, speech.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, speech.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, speech.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, guests.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, speech.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, speech.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, dinner.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, speech.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, golden hour
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, dancing.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, dancing.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, dancing.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, dancing.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, dancing.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, live beatles band.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, golden hour, tent
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, couples portraits.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, speech.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, sunset golden hour.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, golden hour, dancing.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, golden hour sunset.
Beltane Ranch, Sonoma Garden wedding, documentary wedding photography, golden hour sunset.

Wedding Planning : Samar of Blissful Event Planning
Venue: Beltane Ranch
Flowers: Mae Flowers Sonoma
Sheep: Wally the Wooly Weeder
Rentals: Encore Events Rentals (SSS Ranch Napa)
Band: Ticket to Ride (Beatles cover band)
Catering: Sage Catering
Cake/Desserts: Supreme Sweets
Hair & Makeup: Santa Rosa Powder Room
Dress: Atelier Des Modistes


Essential tips for having a dog at your wedding in the Bay Area

As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen it all, from furry friends as ring bearers to four-legged performers stealing the show. If you’re thinking of including your beloved pooch in your big day, here are 8 things you should keep in mind to ensure it’s a tail-wagging success – for all involved!

1. Plan, plan, plan: Before you decide to bring your furry friend to your wedding, make sure your venue is pet-friendly and arrange for a designated handler to look after them during the ceremony and reception. Also consider your guests and determine if anyone might be scared or allergic! Consider logistics such as their transportation and access for their handler for their drop off and pick up. 

Bridge and groom in tuxedo posing with small black and white dog, documentary style photo, botanical garden wedding

2. Be honest with yourself: Not all dogs will do well at large, bustling events like weddings – and that’s ok! If your dog becomes easily agitated or frightened, it may be best to leave them at home. Perhaps they are better suited for an intimate photo shoot with just your photographer!

wedding guest couple posing with wedding dogs, cocker spaniel, black and white dogs, formal wedding, sonoma county wedding

3. Dress them to impress: You want your dog to look as good as you do on your wedding day! Make sure their outfit is comfortable and doesn’t impede their movement. A simple bandana or bow tie will do the trick. Avoid accoutrement that might end up falling off and getting gnawed on.

documentary photo of wedding couple dressed in all white posing with small terrier dog, country wedding, outdoor wedding, documentary photo style, sonoma county wedding

4. Hydration is key: Weddings can be long, tiring events, and your dog will need plenty of water to stay hydrated. Make sure you have a water bowl readily available for them throughout the day. Additionally you will want to prep their handler with their food, treats, doggie bags, and perhaps even some toys. 

5. Never leave them alone: Your dog should never be left alone during your wedding, even for a few minutes. They may become anxious or disoriented without you there, and could end up running off or causing a disturbance. Again, make sure someone is aware of their responsibilities regarding your beloved dog!

bay area Indian wedding, cultural wedding, dog at wedding, dress up dog at wedding, bay area documentary photographer, bride and groom with dog candid photo

6. Accidents happen: Accidents can happen, even with the most well-behaved dogs. The last thing you want to deal with is a less than savory stain at a historic venue or on you or your guests’ outfit. Make sure you have cleaning supplies handy in case your dog has an accident during the ceremony or reception.

dog at wedding, dog walking down aisle, ring bearer dog, formal wedding attire, documentary style wedding photographer, bay are wedding, san francisco wedding photographer, large dog at wedding

7. Capture the moment: Make sure your photographer gets some shots of your furry friend on your big day. After all, you’ve put in all the effort to make sure they are well taken care of and smiling! 

8. Have fun: The most important thing is to make sure everyone, including your furry friend, is having a good time and no one is stressed out or uncomfortable. Have a backup plan with the handler in case something goes awry or the pooch needs a rest from the excitement of the event!

Incorporating your dog into your wedding can be a wonderful way to add a special touch to your big day, but it’s essential to be prepared and ensure that both you and your furry friend are having fun. By keeping these eight things in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a memorable and stress-free wedding experience for everyone involved.

Lesbian wedding couple with two dogs at wedding, dogs in rainbow bandanas, Olema house wedding, Bay area Olema House wedding photographer, documentary wedding photographer.

Garden Wedding – Maggie & August

Maggie and August’s wedding day was one of those days that stretches on, blissfully, for years instead of hours. The confidence, the comfort, the certainty of their love put us all at ease, meaning us humans, me included.

Bay area garden wedding at the gate

bay area documentary wedding photographer

Waiting for his bride first look

Shoulder tap first look wedding

Bay area first look wedding

casual and elegant black tie bridal party

vanity fair wedding party photos hazelphoto

light airy bride smiling

A bamboo arch for wedding decoration

 

san francisco brenizer wedding portrait


Morris House Hotel Wedding

Morris House Hotel Wedding

Camille & Mauricio had a delightful Brunch wedding at Philadelphia’s Morris House Hotel. Under a tent, in the lush courtyard, family and friends gathered round to shower them with love. My favorite part was when a large group of cousins regaled the two with a full-on play! The Morris House Hotel is full of nooks, pergolas, fountains, brick, and vines so we had a wealth of choices for portraits. The Morris house is a perfect setting for a small wedding.

Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto01 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto02 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto03 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto05 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto07 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto10 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto11 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto12 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto13 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto14 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto15 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto16 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto17 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto19 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto20 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto21 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto22 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto23 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto24 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto25 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto27 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto29 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto30 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto31 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto32 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto35 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto36 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto37 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto38 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto40 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto42 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto43 Morris-House-Wedding-Philadelphia-Hazelphoto44


Privacy Settings
We use cookies to enhance your experience while using our website. If you are using our Services via a browser you can restrict, block or remove cookies through your web browser settings. We also use content and scripts from third parties that may use tracking technologies. You can selectively provide your consent below to allow such third party embeds. For complete information about the cookies we use, data we collect and how we process them, please check our Privacy Policy
Youtube
Consent to display content from - Youtube
Vimeo
Consent to display content from - Vimeo
Google Maps
Consent to display content from - Google