Lindsey Relyea 9/30/24 Lindsey Relyea 9/30/24

Kunde Estate Winery Magic: Marissa + Zach’s Celebration Featured on Wedding Chicks

Sonoma held a special place in their hearts, the rolling hills, expansive vineyards, and towering oaks felt like the perfect backdrop to begin the next chapter of their lives together.

With its centuries-old oak trees providing a serene canopy, and the hills creating a sense of intimacy and grandeur all at once, Kunde Estate was the perfect place to bring their dream wedding to life...

At L'Relyea Events, we believe that every love story deserves to be told through thoughtful design and a beautifully crafted experience. When we first met this wonderful couple, we knew their journey was something special. Their story began in 2016 after a meet-cute at their workplace, the groom kept finding reasons to stop by her desk, and she—admittedly—pretended to enjoy basketball just so she could join his March Madness league (talk about dedication!).

Fast forward to 2019, and they were planning a trip to San Francisco. The groom had spent many years making memories with his family in the Napa Valley area, so it felt only fitting that he would propose at Battery Spencer, overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge. As they gazed at the iconic view, he got down on one knee—and the rest is history.

Choosing Sonoma Valley: A Venue Rooted in Love and Legacy

Sonoma held a special place in their hearts, the rolling hills, expansive vineyards, and towering oaks felt like the perfect backdrop to begin the next chapter of their lives together.

Navigating the Planning Process Together

Planning a destination wedding in wine country can be an exciting but challenging experience, and we were honored that this couple entrusted us to bring their vision to life. The bride, who considers herself pretty decisive, had everything lined up… until COVID threw a wrench in the works. California’s restrictions became difficult to navigate, but with the help of Kunde Estate Winery, we stayed in constant communication and adjusted timelines and possibilities. Together, we ensured that no matter the obstacles, their dream wedding would come to life. And while the wedding date may have shifted, the result was truly worth the wait.

Dramatic Views and Design That Tells Their Story

From the floral arrangements that framed the ceremony to the scenic dance floor surrounded by ancient trees, the design captured the essence of California wine country: relaxed yet refined. Guests mingled on the lawn, sipping wine and soaking in the warmth of the late afternoon sun. Every element—from the outdoor lounge spaces to the delicate table settings—exuded an effortless sophistication.

Boot Hill at Kunde Estate Winery provided the most dramatic, scenic backdrop for the couple's special day. We loved working with them to incorporate the breathtaking views of wine country into every element of their design. Their decor featured a color palette of green and soft white, with subtle pops of gray and a hint of sparkle to add that “classic with a twist” vibe the bride wanted.

The natural beauty of the venue, paired with the couple’s personal touches, created a setting that felt both elegant and intimate—exactly the atmosphere they had hoped for. It was such a joy to see their love story come to life through the lens of design and decor.

A Wedding Chicks Feature to Celebrate

We’re beyond thrilled to have this beautiful wedding featured on Wedding Chicks! It’s such an honor to have our work showcased on a platform that celebrates love, creativity, and the art of wedding design. Seeing this couple’s journey come full circle, from their days working together at Ulta Beauty to saying “I do” at Kunde Estate Winery, has been nothing short of magical.

Thank you to Wedding Chicks for featuring this unforgettable day, and to our amazing couple for allowing us to be a part of such an important chapter in your lives. We couldn’t be more grateful! You can click here to see more of this beautiful day.

Lindsey Relyea 5/1/20 Lindsey Relyea 5/1/20

Allison + Alex | Beltane Ranch

Last summer we had the pleasure of working with Allison + Alex on their whimsical wedding at Beltane Ranch. From the start, Allison knew that she would not have a lot of time to commit to planning her wedding. After being referred to us through a friend, we began working with Allison and Alex on achieving their dream wedding day while making the process efficient and effortless for them!

Like most modern brides, designs and inspiration were first gathered via a Pinterest board which soon became filled with soft neutral tones, whimsical draping, and beautifully displayed champagne flutes. With the help of our amazing creative partners and the beautiful backdrop of Beltane Ranch, Allison + Alex’s day went off without a hitch and was absolutely unforgettable!

Beneath the shade of ancient oak trees, Allison and Alex said “I do” in a beautiful ceremony that was officiated by Allison’s stepfather. Flowing white linens and strands of white poofs were delicately draped around the trunk of the tree that served at the backdrop to the ceremony site, setting the tone for the whimsical atmosphere that Allison had dreamed of. During the ceremony, the wedding party was seated with guests, allowing all eyes to be on the bride and groom as the two became husband and wife.

Following the ceremony, guests were treated to a beautiful cocktail hour on the lawn where comfortable vignettes, tray-passed hors d’oeuvres, and a fresh oyster bar by Hog Island Oyster Co awaited them. Guests then found their reception seating by way of champagne flutes displayed on Encore Events Rentals’ a-frame Drake Shelf, each glass accompanied by a name and table number. The reception that awaited was a truly stunning alfresco setting with a color palette of soft blush and creamy white, all set beneath the oak trees and strands of lights hung overhead.

Effortlessly elegant was the overall feel we were going for which was achieved through gorgeous florals designed by Hawthorn Flower Studio and tons of soft textures on the tabletops. Guest seating was a combination of wood farm tables with loose linen runners down the center and round tables draped in pale blush linens; all paired with wood bistro chairs with white cushions. Printed menus and a knotted linen napkin completed each setting in addition to gold flatware and crisp white china.

As the night wore on and the sun went down, the candles and lighting strung overhead began to glow and created the most romantic ambiance for the evening celebration. Heartfelt toasts were made, and Allison and Alex shared a memorable first dance as Lucky Devils Band played in the background. We feel so fortunate to have played a part in their happily ever after! Special thank you to Gretchen Gause for capturing every last detail of the day!

Lindsey Relyea 10/30/19 Lindsey Relyea 10/30/19

Christy + Alex | Annadel Estate Winery

Christy and Alex grew up playing together as children and it wasn't until after college years that they decided they couldn't live without each other. With this in mind, we could not wait to plan their beautiful wedding day that would solidify their fairytale love story and also begin their new journey together as husband and wife!

Christy and Alex’s inspiration boards were filled with elements such as soft draping, pale blush accents, and beautiful leafy greens. Annadel Estate Winery proved to be the perfect wine country venue for their wedding with its historic ruins and bountiful foliage that we would would help create the ambiance they desired.

Rather than a traditional ceremony arch, Christy and Alex exchanged vows beneath a beautiful tree with a floral installation cascading down the trunk. The vibrant greenery and pale blush florals flowing down the tree was such a unique backdrop for the ceremony, which was sweet and romantic in every way.

Wanting to find a way to incorporate the couple’s beloved golden retriever in their day, the escort card table featured a beautiful dog topiary instructing guests to “fetch” their seats! A miniature figurine of a golden rested on each place card and gave guests something sweet and memorable to take home with them.

An intimate reception awaited the newlyweds and their guests in the courtyard of the Annadel ruins which provided a lush enclosed setting for the celebration. The walls of the ruins are covered in greens and create the feeling of a secret garden within the expansive property. With some romantic draping added to the two entrances of the courtyard and lighting strung overhead, the ambiance was undeniably magical! Loose textured floral centerpieces by Julie Stevens Design were paired with settings of white china and gold flatware with black handles.

Following dinner and toasts, the celebration continued at Annadel’s beautifully preserved barn where the newlyweds and their guests danced the night away, and even went home with customized hats in bright neon colors. At the end of the evening, Christy and Alex were sent off by their loved ones with a sea of streamers cascading over them as they walked by. An epic celebration for one epic love story!

Lindsey Relyea 9/20/17 Lindsey Relyea 9/20/17

Whitney + Jesse | Bodega Harbour Yacht Club

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Amongst the tranquillity of the Sonoma Coast, with stunning 360-degree views of the ocean and the rolling Sonoma mountains, it’s easy to see why Whitney + Jesse chose the Bodega Harbour Yacht Club to exchange vows.

Our bride wore a gorgeous white gown with a blush bow that tied around the back. The blush dress detail paired beautifully with the lush greenery and white florals that framed the wedding ceremony. The couple stood in front of their closest family and friends under a stunning arch of florals expertly crafted by Aimee Lomeli.

Following the ceremony, the celebration moved to the upper level of the Yacht Club where the reception took place. The room was filled with round tables draped in classic white linens, white chairs and gorgeous, bountiful white florals. Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner catered by Bluewater Bistro that was served on white china and silver flatware.

Guests danced the night away to tunes by the live band, Retro Jukebox Band, nibbled on donuts from the couple’s favorite donut shop, played Jenga and enjoyed the delicious and beautifully designed wedding cake by Patisserie Angelica.

We loved planning and designing such a wonderful day and we were lucky to be a part of all the beautiful moments. Thank you, Courtney Stockton for capturing each and every one!

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Lindsey Relyea 7/12/17 Lindsey Relyea 7/12/17

Caitie + Alex | Geyserville Inn

In the Heart of Alexander Valley, nestled between mountains and vineyards, you’ll discover Geyserville Inn. With spacious grounds and a serene ambiance, it was the perfect destination for our bride and groom’s laid and gorgeous wedding. Caitie and Alex desired these elements so we were elated to plan and design their spirited summer nuptials at this stunning venue!

Flanked by bridesmaids in sapphire gowns and groomsmen in black suits, our bride and groom exchanged vows in a beautiful ceremony under a intimately decorated pergola. With the rolling hills and lush vineyards spreading out into the distance behind them, it truly was a special moment.

For cocktail hour, we wanted to make the most of the space the property allowed. We placed lounge furniture for guests to grab drinks, enjoy appetizers, mingle and explore the beauty of the property.

We wanted to preserve the stunning beauty and natural surroundings the venue offered, so neutral tones with gold accents were utilised for the reception. The bridal party, including Caitie and Alex sat at a long family style table, while guests dined at round tables of 8. Gorgeous stunning flora centerpieces by Fleuressence were in hues of cream, soft pink, deep magenta and lush greenery.

Guests danced the night away to tunes played by AMS. An elegant four layered cake for guests to enjoy completed the evening's festivities while Sarah Marcella beautifully captured all of our favorite moments. We are so happy we were able to be part of Caitie and Alex's special day. Thank you to the entire team for making this possible!