Diablo Weddings Winter/Spring 2016

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CONTENTS volume t wo

Features

36 Love Stories Eight couples with East Bay ties talk about falling in love and planning their Northern California dream weddings.

48 Style Guide

SHERMAN CHU

Three outdoor wedding shoots provide inspiration for your alfresco event.

DIABLO WEDDINGS 9 DIABLO WEDDINGS 9

CONTENTS volume t wo

15 Getting Ready His and hers gifts for the newlyweds; behind-thescenes with a seasoned wedding photographer; the East Bay's grandest venues; a local letterpress couple; Bay Area bridal fair inspiration; and expert tips for tackling a trunk show.

25 The Wedding Pro Wedding planner Lindsay Noonan oers expert advice on making your wedding unique and keeping calm on your big day.

29 Decadent Dessert You can have your cake and eat it, too. From country chic to classic elegance: Four local bakeries get creative with the traditional wedding dessert.

56 Resource Guide Bridal boutiques, caterers, DJs, florists, photographers, venues, wedding planners, and other recommended vendors.

88 SISTERLEE PHOTOGRAPHY

On the Cover Photography by Sherman Chu

10 D I A B L O W E D D I N G S

ARTIST CREDIT ARTIST CREDIT ARTIST CREDIT

Best Wishes

weddings EDITOR IN CHIEF

Susan Dowdney Safipour Roger Gurbani

ART DIRECTOR MANAGING EDITOR, DIABLO WEDDINGS

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ASSISTANT EDITOR

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PRODUCTION EDITOR

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A S S O C I AT E E D I T O R

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MANAGING EDITOR, DIABLO

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SENIOR EDITOR ART/WEB ASSISTANT COPY EDITORS

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Linda Lenhoff, Sarah Schultz EDITORIAL INTERNS

PRESIDENT

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ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Toni Tighe

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Marilyn Beck Rivera, Megan Tuggle ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Nicole Alexander, Christianna Cohen, Nikki Constantino MARKETING DIRECTOR

Dave Reik

M A R K E T I N G A N D C I R C U L AT I O N M A N AG E R C O N T E N T M A R K E T I N G A S S O C I AT E M A R K E T I N G A S S O C I AT E

Caroline Tanonis

SALES AND MARKETING INTERN MARKETING INTERN

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Megan Molavi, Michelle Robertson, Marcel Scott D I R E C T O R O F O P E R AT I O N S

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AD PRODUCTION AND PRODUCTION

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FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

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12 DIABLO WEDDINGS

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GETTING R EADY tips / inspirations / trends / happenings

His and Hers

Unique gifts for your favorite couple.

BY MICHELLE ROBERTSON

BJORN WALLANDER

L

Looking for the perfect wedding gift?

Check out Elsie Green House and Home. It’s a treasure trove of thoughtful and well-curated items, including the make-them-smile mugs that say: "I Love You" and "I Love You Too." Owned by Alamo resident Laurie Furber, the shop features a mix of old and new, with vintage furniture and linen dating back to the late-1800s resting alongside handcrafted items from around the East Bay. Elsie Green even offers a registry for the couple’s favorite gifts.

“We understand that these items will be in your home for a long time,” says Furber. “That makes it personal.”

The shop also offers rentals for one-of-a-kind tableware, linens, and furniture for the big day.

Items available online or from the shop at 2954 Treat Blvd., Ste. C., Concord, (925) 323-5311, elsiegreen.com.

D I A B L O W E D D I N G S 15

getting ready q&a

Moment of Truth

For photographer Josh Isaacs, keeping cool is key.

B Y S TA C E Y K E N N E L LY grow. The client ends up caring about you very much.

Q: How so?

A: There are four or five couples I’ve had the chance to watch grow. I didn’t understand that part of the job until I photographed a wedding, and then a family shoot, and then a first birthday party. That’s when it hit me that there’s no end to it. If I do my job right, I get to be a part of these families.

Q: What’s the most exciting wedding you’ve captured?

A: I shot a cowboy wedding at Callippe Preserve Golf Course in Pleasanton with Eli. The men were dressed in nice Wranglers and button-up shirts, and the bride rode in on a horse.

Q: And the hardest?

A: I did a 200 person at Alpha Omega Winery alone. The bride was very specific, but she only wanted me. When I got in the car, I was exhausted. My arms hurt, but I got every shot.

Q: You’ve been shooting weddings for a few years now. What does it take?

A: It starts with being able to see a moment and take a photograph that is above average and all encompassing.

It tells a story but can also be put on a wall. That’s where it starts.

Q: What else is involved?

A: The photographer has the most intimate job of the day. We are with that couple—and most often the bride—in the most vulnerable spots of their lives, in the morning and at the end of the day.

We get close and watch these families 16 D I A B L O W E D D I N G S

Q: How do you keep your cool?

A: I don’t feel panicked anymore. Usually, the experience is calm as long as I’m prepared. There are a few tricks, like checking your work often and zooming in on it really quickly to tell if you got what you needed.

Q: What shot can’t you miss?

A: For the ceremony, there’s this one little set: I need her looking at him, but what she’s seeing is his face as he’s seeing her for the first time.

Q: What do you love most about shooting weddings?

A: At first, they terrified me because I didn’t want to screw it up. But now, I love the little moments. There are moments everywhere, and that’s what it’s all about. Josh Isaacs Photography, (925) 285-7316, jjisaacs.com.

JOSH ISAACS PHOTOGRAPHY

Pleasant Hill resident Josh Isaacs always had a knack for photography. But he didn’t start shooting weddings until he met Eli Pitta, a renowned photographer who let Isaacs tag along on the weekends—for two years. When Pitta asked Isaacs to complete an assignment on his own, Isaacs knew he had the skills to go solo.

getting ready venue roundup

Finding the One

Check out the East Bay’s most venerable wedding venues.

Love and Luxury Blackhawk Automotive Museum, Danville This world-class museum showcases a rotating collection of rare and one-of-a-kind vehicles. Ceremonies are held on the mezzanine level while receptions in the main showroom are accented by hot rods.

Reception capacity: 550.

Menu highlight: A duet of filet mignon and halibut served with rosemary sea-salt fingerling potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

Snap-worthy spot: In the center of the black marble dance floor wrapped in an embrace.

(925) 736-2280, blackhawkmuseum.org.

Barrel Room Bliss Murrieta’s Well, Livermore A reception in the wine cellar at Wente Vineyards-owned Murrieta’s Well is intimate and special, with its barrel-lined walls and rustic wooden pillars. Vows are exchanged outside on the vineyard patio.

Reception capacity: 110.

Menu highlight: House-smoked pork chop with sautéed greens, white cheddar polenta, and apricot-onion compote.

Snap-worthy spot: On the Spanish staircase leading up to the barrel room. (925) 4562395, murrietaswell.com.

Candlelit Celebration Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery, Pleasanton This venue was designed specifically for weddings, ensuring the ultimate guest experience. The Amber Room’s glowing lights and magnificent fireplace make for a dramatic indoor ceremony, while limestone fountains in the Sun Garden provide an aisle fit for Mediterranean royalty.

Reception capacity: 450.

Menu highlight: Custom “host courses”— entrées that have special meaning to the bride and groom.

Snap-worthy spot: Outside the grand salon, in front of giant wooden doors imported from Brazil. (925) 931-0200, casarealevents.com.

Golf Course Glamour Ruby Hill Golf Club, Pleasanton Couples love Ruby Hill Golf Club for its variety of fairytale like backdrops. Some say “I do” on the grand staircase beneath the dome roof while others opt for the elegant outdoor courtyard.

Reception capacity: 204-300.

Menu highlight: Pan-roasted local sea bass with Meyer lemon beurre blanc.

Snap-worthy spot: Beneath the Heritage oak tree as the afternoon sunlight pours through the branches. (925) 461-3504, rubyhill.com.

Resort Romance Claremont Club and Spa, A Fairmont Hotel, Berkeley This elegant and historic hotel is getting an upgrade as it becomes a Fairmont property.

A variety of rooms—many of which offer sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay— are available for the ceremony, reception, and brunch celebration.

Reception capacity: 90-480.

Menu highlight: Grilled beef served with creamed horseradish and buttermilk whipped potatoes.

Snap-worthy spot: The Tower Suite at the top of the hotel, at sunset, with a 360-degree view of the Bay. (800) 551-7266, claremont resort.com.

18 D I A B L O W E D D I N G S

Clockwise from top: Claremont Club and Spa, A Fairmont Hotel; Murrieta’s Well; Ruby Hill Golf Club.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: JENNIFER MICHELSON, A GIRL AND A CAMERA PHOTOGRAPHY; COURTESY OF MURRIETA’S WELL; REECE AND KATRINA PHOTOGRAPHERS

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getting ready meet

Letterpressed, With Love

A letterpress printing company brings love to the page.

BY MICHELLE ROBERTSON

While he researched medical schools, she logged hours in UC Berkeley’s libraries to finish her law degree. But these professions weren’t in the cards: He never made it to the MCAT, and she never took the bar exam.

Instead, Craig and Alexandra Rinde launched The Aerialist Press, which is now one of the premier letterpress invitation businesses in the East Bay. The couple have never looked back, and spend much of their time creating elegant hand-pressed invitations side by side.

We got the scoop on the best invitations from Alexandra at their Walnut Creek shop.

The Basics “Letterpress is one of the oldest forms of printing, not dissimilar from Gutenberg’s original printing process. The hallmark of great letterpress is a soft paper and a crisp impression. It’s an old-school way of printing but modernized with Adobe InDesign software.”

Aesthetic Appeal “I’m all about subtle accents and neutral color palettes. For example, I like to keep an invitation classic, but dress it up by adding a beautiful ribbon or colorful envelope line. I like things that have a lot of texture that are fun to open and play with.”

On Trend “A big trend this year has been foil and metallics. In terms of colors, blush, gold, and gray are popular at the moment. I’m hoping to see more soft-gray blues and greens in 2016.”

Timing Is Everything “If you’re planning to send save the dates, come in to see us 10 months before the date, in order to send the cards six to eight months before the wedding. For invitations, visit us a couple months before the wedding so that the invites are ready to send six to eight weeks before the big day.”

20 DIABLO WEDDINGS

Social Media Sleuth “A lot of our couples find something they like on our Instagram and e-mail us about it. We use Instagram more than anything to connect with our clients.”

On Work and Love “Separation of roles is key. We try to leave work at the door—not to bring it home with us and talk about it over dinner.”

Travel Inspiration “My husband and I like to travel a lot. We were just in Portugal. I often pick up paper from the different places we visit.” theaerialistpress.com.

TOP TO BOTTOM: MELANIE DUERKOPP PHOTOGRAPHY; HANNAH SUH PHOTOGRAPHY

Invite Advice “Find a stationer, and trust him or her to guide you. Ask questions. We’re paper experts and [are] happy to fill in the gaps with our knowledge.”

getting ready find ideas

Here Comes the Bridal Fair These shows put the professionals in one place for you.

Glamour and Glitz Luxe Bridal Show features premier vendors— plus a photo booth, dance lessons, and a fully stocked bar. $25, San Francisco (January and March) and Berkeley (April), luxebridal showsf.com.

Advice from five top East Bay bridal shops for finding your dream dress.

Planning a wedding can be stressful—but finding your dress doesn’t have to be. Thankfully, most bridal shops host trunk shows, where designers present their latest collections and offer discounts.

Here are expert tips for tackling a trunk show like a pro.

TIP: KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT “Find out which shows are the right ones for you.

Are the designs to your taste—or are they way off budget, even with a discount? Are they too formal or informal? What sizes will be offered?” — Clara Petit, co-owner, The Wedding Party, Berkeley, (510) 420-1338, theweddingpartyonline.com.

TIP: COMMUNICATE WITH THE SHOP “If you’re looking for a certain dress, call the salon and let your consultant know. She can make sure the dress will be at the trunk show and you won’t be disappointed.” —Patti Fontana Sagrafena, sales lead, La Soie Bridal, Walnut Creek, (925) 933-9988, lasoiebridal.com.

TIP: SHOP AROUND FIRST “Designers send in anywhere from 10 to 30 dresses that are not normally carried at that salon, 22 DIABLO WEDDINGS

so chances are high that you are going to find your dress if you already know what you’re looking for.” —Dawn Silva Rigney, co-owner, Kinsley James Couture Bridal, Walnut Creek, (925) 330-9228, kinsleyjames.com.

TIP: SELECT YOUR ENTOURAGE WISELY “Limit the number of guests that join you to just those whose opinion you value. Sometimes, having too large of a party can cloud your ability to make a decision.” —Victoria Hansen, owner, Lace and Bustle Bridal, Lafayette, (925) 298-4100, laceand bustle.com.

TIP: BE PREPARED TO BUY “Sometimes at trunk shows, brides aren’t prepared to buy their dress right then, and when the dress moves to another store the next week, brides are disappointed. So if there’s a dress you really like, take advantage of that at the show.” —Jaime Zile, owner, J’aime Bridal, Pleasanton, (925) 846-8459, jaimebridal.com. —Rachelle Cihonski

Wine Country Wonderland From caterers to cakes, makeup artists to florists, Tri-Valley Wedding Fairs are the place to find everything your wedding requires. $5–$10, Livermore (February), trivalley weddingfairs.com.

Offbeat and Unique For the couple who wouldn’t be caught dead at a typical bridal fair, Lovesick Expo provides booze, burlesque, and outside-thebox vendors. $15–$20, Alameda (February), lovesickexpo.com.

The Whole Nine Music, fashion shows, and a $10,000 prize— Bay Area Wedding Fairs have it all. $10–$15, Walnut Creek (February), Pleasanton (April), and San Francisco (May), bayareawedding fairs.com.

Dress Rehearsal The Big Fake Wedding San Francisco puts on a wedding at Fort Mason Center, where couples are the guests at a vow-renewal ceremony, cocktail dinner, and reception. $25, San Francisco (July), thebigfakewedding. com. —R.C.

LEFT TO RIGHT: ALLYSON WILEY; CAMERON INGALLS

Trunk Show Tips

One of a Kind Luxury Wedding Shows at the Bently Reserve showcase couture fashion, reception inspiration, and wedding professionals. $15–$20; San Francisco (February); luxury weddingshows.com.

WEDDINGS

MODERN. MEMORABLE. MAGICAL. Whether you are planning a gala wedding reception, an engagement party, bridal shower, or a rehearsal dinner, Hotel Shattuck Plaza is a truly elegant wedding and special event venue that blends historic charm and contemporary style in Downtown Berkeley.

MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE SINCE 1910.

CONTACT OUR WEDDING EXPERT 510-225-6007 | catering@hotelshattuckplaza.com hotelshattuckplaza.com | 2086 Allston Way, Berkeley, CA 94704 | 510-845-7300

advice ask the expert

The Wedding Pro Event coordinator and recent bride Lindsay Noonan shares her thoughts on how to make your wedding shine.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: ESMERALDA FRANCO PHOTOGRAPHY; DARREN BRAZIL PHOTOGRAPHY; A PERFECT IMPRESSION PHOTOGRAPHY; DANIELLE POFF PHOTOGRAPHY

B Y K AT I E H E N R Y

I

It rained sideways on the morning of Lindsay Noonan’s wedding. The phones in the bridal suite rang with concerned family checking in.

Fortunately, Noonan, an event planner and owner of Danville-based Lindsay Lauren Events, had done all the prep work herself and stayed calm as the rain pounded outside.

Miraculously, an hour before she walked down the aisle, the sky cleared and her courtyard wedding went on without a hitch.

We chatted with Noonan to get her tips on throwing a great party and having a stress-free big day.

Top: A styled sweethearts table. Bottom: Weddings styled by Noonan; Lindsay Noonan of Lindsay Lauren Events.

Q: I just got engaged! What is the first thing to do?

A: Call a planner!

But really, the first thing is to just enjoy the moment because it goes by so quickly. Even though I love all the details of weddings, it’s easy to get carried away. Stop for a minute and celebrate, have a glass of champagne, and enjoy.

Then, get your list of top priorities going: Is it the venue, the time of year, or somewhere you can have a large guest list? Do a little bit of research. Figure out what you like as a couple—what’s most important to you on your day. That will allow you to make better decisions later. If you know from the start that planning a wedding is not your gig, look into a planner in the area where you want to get married, and meet him or her in person. Everything should be in person. You want to make sure the two of you jive—that he or she is someone whom, at the end of the day, you actually like.

Q: What are the challenges of going without a planner?

A: Lack of knowledge. Part of hiring a professional is having someone who not just hears your needs, but will carefully select vendors who fit into your vision, which expedites the process.

And stress. I’ve had brides who’ve said, “You saved my relationship with my mom.” It helps to have someone outside of the family as your sounding board—someone who can keep everyone happy and most importantly, keep you happy.

You and your fiancé. [Laughs] Q: Sometimes, a bride will have difficulty incorporating her vision with her fiancé’s. What is a way to bring these two visions together?

A: Sometimes, couples come to me with a general idea of what they want, so I ask them, “What’s your theme? What’s your feel?” You don’t necessarily need a theme, but you definitely need direction. Make lists of your favorite things, put them together, and see what you have in common. If you are both huge foodies—you love farm-to-table and wine—that’s a great thing that can evolve into a theme.

I had a couple who knew what they liked as far as aesthetics and design, but they weren’t sure how to play it throughout the wedding.

By making their list, they realized that golf was huge for them both D I A B L O W E D D I N G S 25

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advice ask the expert

Noonan uses unique elements, such as anniversary bottles filled with notes from guests or a wine barrel as a guestbook, to add a more personal touch.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: HAZY LANE STUDIOS; J. PERLMAN R.LUTGE PHOTOGRAPHY; HAZY LANE STUDIOS

and the bride had a vintage style. So they did a vintage golf theme. Their seating chart, for example, was set up like a golf course, with each hole as a table assignment.

Q: After setting up a planner, what decisions are first?

A: Your guest list. That will dictate what direction you go with your venue. If you find a place you love that only holds 50 people and you have a guest list of 250, that’s not going to work.

And know your location parameters. Do you want to stay local? Do you like the idea of a destination?

Your venue is really your canvas.

Sometimes, couples make a decision about a venue based only on their budget and think they’ll bring in everything to make it true to their vision. Of course, you can change certain aspects—you can drape, you can do lighting—to enhance the beauty of the day, but it won’t change the fact that you love Wine Country but you’re inside an event center. All those decisions play into the venue.

Q: How did you and your husband decide on those important touches?

A: It partly had to do with what I do. I wanted people to feel like we were grateful for them being there.

Guests were greeted with a glass of champagne and we had live music, which was the biggest treat and something we loved, but also knew our guests would eat up.

Q: What is a way to deal with those moments you can’t control?

A: I always say you can’t control the weather—metaphorically and literally! So, what’s your plan B?

And that goes back to the venue.

Do you want a winter or summer wedding outside? What if it is a crazy day and it rains? There are so many elements you can’t control, such as traffic, a vendor getting sick, or a bridesmaid’s dress ripping. Always have a plan B! Q: You got married a few years ago. With so much going on, and you being a planner, how did you manage to stay calm?

A: Honestly, I don’t know. I got married in September in Sonoma. It’s peak season for the weather—and it rained. Everyone thought I would be freaking out, but truthfully, I wasn’t.

What kept me sane was knowing that I had done everything in my power to control the things that were important to me. I had a great team of vendors and someone who was hands-on at the venue who could boss my wedding party around. I was able to let it go and say, “It’s my wedding; I’m happy.”

When we were planning, people told me that it goes by so quickly, and it’s so true. The little things are just hiccups, and if one thing wasn’t how I envisioned, none of the guests were going to know anyway.

Q: How do you recommend remembering the little moments?

A: Take a few minutes after the ceremony—whether it’s just the two of you or with your parents—before the madness happens. Even though the dancing and the food are important, it’s really about what you’re committing to each other.

Take a deep breath, and “cheers” each other. That’s kind of my thing; just have a glass of champagne. You need it to settle down. [Laughs]

The same goes for after the wedding. Even if a couple doesn’t want to go on their honeymoon right away, they should take a night to get out and do something different, to reflect on what just happened.

Q: What are some budgeting tips?

A: Food and beverage usually take up a lot of the budget, and one thing people always wonder about is whether they should offer a full bar.

I recommend having wine, beer, and champagne, instead of a full bar where you have to charge your guests for drinks.

But if you like the idea of having hard alcohol, there are different options without having to charge your guests. One of those is offering hard alcohol at cocktail hour, taking a break at dinner, and then reopening the bar in the evening for dancing.

Q: As a planner, how do you feel about Pinterest?

A: It’s a blessing and a curse. There are so many wonderful things about it: beautiful designs, inspiration for couples who don’t know what they want. They can create a board that really reflects them, and I actually help with that, which is wonderful.

But the challenge—and people don’t always realize this—is Pinterest is rarely realistic. There are all these amazing photos, but there’s no budget button. Sometimes, I have to pump the breaks and point out that most things in the photos are custom upgrades. That stemware doesn’t come with those gold rims.

If you keep in mind that your wedding isn’t going to look like a Pinterest board, it can truly enhance creativity and inspire people to use different ideas.

Q: Any new trends popping up?

A: Couples are getting more comfortable going out of the box. They are recognizing that ceremonies and receptions don’t have to be a certain way. There is beauty in tradition, but elements of modern ideas can be mixed in.

And the guest book. It’s not so much a book anymore. My husband and I used the top of a wine barrel, on which people wrote little notes.

We also had five different wine bottles: one for our first, fifth, tenth, fifteenth, and twentieth anniversaries. Guests wrote messages and placed them inside. Last year, on our first anniversary, we went to Pebble Beach, cracked the bottle, and read the notes. It was really fun. lindsaylaurenevents.com. ■

Noonan’s Four Musts 1.

Enjoy it! Remember to breathe and soak it in.

2.

Be in the moment and let someone else be in control that day.

3.

Do your research.

4.

Make sure to eat.

D I A B L O W E D D I N G S 27

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cakes decadent dessert

Let Them Eat Cake

When it comes to dessert, four East Bay bakeries are top tier.

BY RACHELLE CIHONSKI—PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIKA PINO—STYLED BY ADREA CABRERA

1

Country Chic Cake Delight

Fatema Nuruddin, owner of Cake Delight, fell in love with cake making while watching the Food Network, thinking, I want to do that! One day, I’ll have my own shop. Today, the self-taught baker owns two cake shops in Livermore: Cake Delight’s retail location, which opened in September, and her decade-old custom shop, which turns out gorgeous wedding cakes for couples.

01

THE LOOK

The white buttercream is styled in a horizontal texturing for a perfect backdrop to customize with fresh flowers, burlap, and ribbon.

02

BEST FOR

An outdoor country wedding.

03

TAKE A BITE

The Oreo cake is a popular choice, but red velvet with cream cheese filling adds a pop of color and a delicious surprise.

147 N. Livermore Ave., Ste. B, Livermore, (925) 373-7786, cakedelight.com.

D I A B L O W E D D I N G S 29

cakes decadent dessert

2

Classic Elegance Le Gâteau Elégant Owner Karen Del Bonta learned the cake trade as a hands-on apprentice.

“We had really fancy bakeries in Marin, and my first job was in a French-style bakery. The owner wanted to train me hands-on,” she says.

Today, 34 years later, Del Bonta still works with her hands: From baking to decorating, she sees the whole thing through.

“I love doing wedding cakes. Making a cake specially for a couple—it becomes so personal.”

1479 Newell Ave., Walnut Creek, (925) 937-2253, legateauelegant.com.

30 DIABLO WEDDINGS

01

THE LOOK

Frosted in a blush French meringue buttercream and finished with buttercream rosettes, fresh flowers, Swiss dots, and lattice heart designs, this cake makes quite a splash with its Swarovski crystal bling.

02

BEST FOR

An elegant country club wedding.

03

TAKE A BITE

Swedish princess cake and Frangelico truffle cake provide a sweet and nutty flavor, balancing out the buttercream.

cakes decadent dessert

3

Pure Gold Katrina Rozelle Pastries and Desserts After graduating from the California Culinary Academy and working as a pastry chef at Délices in Walnut Creek, Katrina Rozelle opened her first outpost on Oakland’s College Avenue in 1987. “When I was a teenager, I was captivated by cooking magazines and usually tried to replicate what was on the cover. Shortly after I met my husband, he saw my work and immediately knew that I should have my own shop,” says Rozelle.

It’s her Alamo shop— about to celebrate its 25th year—that does the heavy lifting. Every cake, cookie, and pastry is made in Alamo. With flavors like “Obsession” and “Mocha Madness,” Rozelle has become an East Bay favorite for occasions that require a sweet treat.

215 Alamo Plaza, Ste. B, Alamo, (925) 837-6337; 5931 College Ave., Oakland, (510) 655-3209, katrinarozelle.com.

32 D I A B L O W E D D I N G S

01

THE LOOK

This cake is all about clean lines: Smooth ivory fondant with a delicate pearl-accented base and the middle tier wrapped in 23-karat gold leaf draw the eye, punctuated by a handmade peony for added flair.

02

BEST FOR

A modern wedding with crisp decor.

03

TAKE A BITE

Devil’s food cake is the star here, layered with chocolate mousse and raspberries for the top two tiers, while the base holds a slightly mellower milk chocolate–hazelnut mousse.

cakes decadent dessert

4

Sweet Silk Primrose Bakery When the former owner of Primrose Bakery decided to hang up his apron last year, Jesse and Jessica Eiland thanked their lucky stars. “When we got married six years ago, we decided we wanted to own a bakery. This was a dream come true,” says Jesse. The couple moved the business from Castro Valley to Pleasanton, and added sugar-free, gluten-free, and vegan cakes. While Jessica does the mixing and baking (she’s been in the biz 25 years), Jesse manages the books— and dabbles in cake decor (he hand-folded those fondant roses).

350 Main St., Ste. D, Pleasanton, (925) 249-1261, primrose bakery.com.

34 DIABLO WEDDINGS

01

THE LOOK

Draped in Swiss fondant, covered in edible hand-sculpted roses, and finished with edible pearlescent paint, this tiered princess cake lives up to its royal name.

02

BEST FOR

A classic fairytale wedding.

03

TAKE A BITE

French génoise sponge cake filled with Bavarian cream and a thin ribbon of seedless raspberry jam make up the top and bottom tiers, while the middle tier is filled with white chocolate mousse and fresh raspberries.

SISTERLEE PHOTOGRAPHY

W

36 D I A B L O W E D D I N G S

REAL WEDDINGS

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WEDDINGS BY SCOTT AND DANA

MEET EIGHT HAPPY COUPLES WHO RECENTLY TIED THE KNOT.

D I A B L O W E D D I N G S 37

people real weddings

Tradition Trumps All

Molly Moody & John Clark C H U R C H OF SA N TA M A R I A , OR I N DA ; C L A R E M O N T C LUB AN D S PA , A FAI RM O N T HOT EL , BERK EL EY

W

Bridal Gown: Bridal Galleria, San Francisco | Entertainment: A Sound Explosion Event Productions, Alameda (DJ) | Flowers: Natalie Galasso Designs, Merced | Hair/Makeup: Eryn Harrison at Calm, A Salon, Oakland | Invitations: Fleming’s Printed Affair, Oakland | Photographer: Sisterlee Photography, Bellflower | Planner: Carol Leslie, Berkeley

38 DIABLO WEDDINGS

SISTERLEE PHOTOGRAPHY

When Molly Moody was introduced to John Clark at a birthday party, it wasn’t love at first sight.

“I had strep throat and could barely talk,” Molly says. “I wanted to go to bed. Somehow, John still found me to be charming.”

It didn’t take long for John to sweep Molly off her feet—once she was feeling better.

“After our first date, I remember walking through the door to my apartment and realizing that he was the person I was going to marry,” says Molly. “His intelligence, wit, and love for family still have me smiling every day.”

John and Molly soon began to plan a wedding to accommodate a big guest list and to recognize family traditions. Molly asked each of her bridesmaids to wear a different color dress, which was something her mother had done for her own wedding. The ceremony was held in Molly’s childhood church in Orinda.

“I’ll never forget hearing the cantor, who has been there my entire life, performing Canon in D, with the organ and piano booming in the background,” says Molly.

After the ceremony, everyone traveled through the Caldecott Tunnel to the celebration at the Claremont. The couple made it a weekend event, enjoying the hotel’s amenities. “Lounging at the pool the day before and after the wedding with all of our family and friends was magical,” says John.

John and Molly honeymooned in Bali and live in San Francisco.

—Angela Sasse

Passport to Love

Rebecca Kay & Cory Pullen

TAKEN BY LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

DI A B LO R A N C H, WA L N U T CR EEK

A

A fleeting encounter followed by years apart could have resulted in Bay Area natives Rebecca Kay and Cory Pullen never writing their love story.

Luckily, fate intervened, and the two crossed paths a second time in 2012. Their love for the outdoors and international travel created an immediate bond.

At their wedding in June at Diablo Ranch in Walnut Creek, with sweeping views of Mount Diablo, they gathered under a great old oak tree. The couple danced to “Stand

By Me” while guests waved “magic wands” over them to cast a spell.

The rustic charm of handmade burlap signs and a gourmet food truck grounded the party in realism, but a honeymoon adventure soon swept them into the surreal. When they arrived on the tiny island of Thatch Caye in Belize, Rebecca and Cory were the resort’s only guests for the first two nights.

“We felt like royalty,” says Cory.

“We went snorkeling and kayaking, and had the time of our lives.”

The adventure for this Pleasant Hill couple isn’t likely to end any time soon. After Cory finishes his M.B.A. at Saint Mary’s College, they hope to go “exploring the world,” Rebecca says. —Lou Fancher

Bridal Gown: Janene’s Bridal Boutique, Alameda | Cake: SusieCakes, Lafayette | Catering: RoliRoti Gourmet Rotisserie, Hayward | Entertainment: DJ Cams, San Francisco; Kevin Toqe Music, Walnut Creek | Flowers: San Francisco Flower Mart (arrangements); Floravida Events, San Ramon (bouquets/boutonnieres) | Hair: Kimbria Foley and Robyn Greenwood at Elise Armeen Salon, Novato | Invitations: Minted.com | Makeup: Makeup By Adele, Danville | Photographer: Taken by Light Photography, San Francisco | Rentals: Chairs for Affairs, Martinez

D I A B L O W E D D I N G S 39

people real weddings

Fit to Be Wed

Shiva Delfani & Tyler Hess V. SATTUI W I N E RY, ST. HEL EN A

It’s fitting that Shiva Delfani met Tyler Hess at a popular sports bar in Walnut Creek.

“We met the day after Christmas in the Stadium Pub,” says Shiva, who grew up in Concord and Walnut Creek, and whose parents own the Zebra Tattoo and Piercing Parlors in Berkeley and Walnut Creek. “It’s the place where people who went to high school in the area meet up when they are home for the holidays.”

As soon as she met Tyler, then a ballplayer in the San Francisco Giants’ minor league system, Shiva knew he was Mr. Right. Tyler felt the same way.

Bridal Gown: Flares Bridal and Formal, Walnut Creek | Cake: Sweetie Pies Bakery, Napa | Caterer: Elaine Bell Catering, Napa | Flowers: Garaventa Florist, Napa | Photographer: Sherman Chu, Carmel Valley

40 DIABLO WEDDINGS

SHERMAN CHU

I

“We knew we were in love almost immediately,” says Tyler. “It was so natural.”

The couple dated for one year, got engaged, and started looking for the perfect location for their wedding. They found it in Wine Country, near where Tyler grew up before moving to Alamo to attend De La Salle High. The couple chose V. Sattui Winery in St. Helena and went to work planning a wedding for 175 guests.

They incorporated elements from Shiva’s Persian culture and from Tyler’s Christian heritage into the ceremony.

“My mom created a beautiful Persian sofreh for us to sit on during the ceremony, so guests could sprinkle sugar on us so we will have a sweet marriage,” says Shiva, referring to the traditional seat and table containing symbolic items. “And Tyler’s cousin, a Christian pastor, was able to officiate the Christian part of the ceremony. It was perfect.”

The wedding was so perfect, in fact, that the couple felt no need to immediately go on a honeymoon.

(They’ll head to Hawaii for Valentine’s Day.) Instead, they moved to Southern California to open a series of Crunch and UFC health clubs—but they don’t expect to stay in SoCal forever.

“We really want to start a family, and we want to raise our kids in Northern California,” says Shiva. “Our parents live a few miles from each other. And we want to be close to them when we have kids.” —Peter Crooks

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people real weddings

A Family Affair

W E N TE V I N EYA R D S , L I V ERM O RE

D

Daniel DeSimone and Lindsay Slap met in a dangerous place: a four square of romantic relationships.

They were both seeing other people.

“She dated my best friend,” Danny says.

However, Lindsay realized her heart “was moving to a different beat,” she says. And Danny says he “couldn’t keep her out [of his head].”

Luckily, it all worked out. Their wedding at Wente Vineyards was a sophisticated swirl of light pink and ivory. With Lindsay’s tulleand-lace wedding dress, soft pink bridesmaids gowns, and men’s sleek black suits, color brought romance to drama. Even the salmon and a three-tiered white wedding cake played into the color scheme. Adding even more depth to the event, Lindsay chose a dress that showed off her tattoos, which carry special meaning in her life.

Danny says he learned one key to making the wedding, and likely their marriage, a success: “Let your wife decide. As long as she’s happy, the groom will be happy.”

“Having the people who love you most in one place with smiles gleaming from wall to wall is fun,” says Lindsay. But perhaps nothing glowed as gorgeously as the look of wonder on the face of the flower girl, Brooklyn, the couple’s then 14-month-old daughter.

With full-time jobs and a second baby expected in May 2016, the couple plan to move from a Pleasanton apartment to a new home in Livermore. —L.F.

Bridal Gown: David’s Bridal, Oregon | Caterer: Wente Vineyards | Entertainment: Ryan Lucero, San Francisco (DJ) | Flowers: Tri Valley Flowers, Pleasanton | Photographer: Weddings by Scott and Dana, Sacramento

42 DIABLO WEDDINGS

WEDDINGS BY SCOTT AND DANA

Lindsay Slap & Daniel DeSimone

Match Made in Wine Journalism

Ashley Teplin & Alan Kropf P R I VATE HO M E , NAPA

I

MATTHEW NOEL

It all started with an interview.

The year was 2010, and Alan Kropf, a sommelier and founder of an upstart wine and beverage industry magazine, had come to Napa to interview Chris Carpenter, a client of Ashley Teplin’s food and wine PR business.

Ashley was used to stuffy older men writing wine stories, not young, hip, and inquisitive ones. “I was quite nervous and extremely overtalkative, as I attempted to explain the wines and terroir of Napa Valley,” she remembers. “He claims I was charming.”

They fell in love quickly.

“When I was with Ashley,” Alan says, “I felt like I was home, and that we fit together in a way that was meant to be.”

As they planned their May wedding, both Ashley and Alan knew they wanted food and drinks to be key components. “Our love is truly centered on sharing culinary and beverage experiences together, and I wanted our friends and family to feel that way,” says Ashley.

So, they splurged—a lot—on wine, whiskey, and a curated tasting that showcased their experiences together over the years.

The couple waited a few months before honeymooning in St. Lucia. Today, they live in San Francisco, but Ashley, a Danville native and Monte Vista grad, says she sees the duo ending up in the East Bay. Wherever they settle down, food and wine will play a key role in their romance for years to come. —Matt Villano

Bridal Gown: Amy Kuschel, San Francisco | Caterer: Todd Humphries, chef of Kitchen Door, Napa | Entertainment: Max Bonick Trio, Napa (live music) | Flowers: Melody Raye Flowers and Design, Napa | Hair: Margaret LaPorte at Salon Eleven, Napa | Makeup: Keli Campbell at Salon Eleven, Napa | Photographer: Matthew Noel, Louisiana | Planner: Lisa Brown Productions, Los Angeles and Napa Valley | Rentals: Encore Event Rentals, Healdsburg and Petaluma

DIABLO WEDDINGS 43

people real weddings

Jessica Ponce & Aldo Basurto MI SSI O N D O LO R E S , SA N F R A N C I S C O ; PA L M E V EN T CEN T ER, PL EASAN TO N

J

Jessica Ponce almost went to the wrong nightclub on the evening she met The One. She and her cousins were headed for a night of dancing at the San Francisco club Slide, when the group decided at the last minute to go to Heights Ultra Lounge instead.

“I was not very pleased about the change of plans,” says Jessica, laughing. “Little did I know, I was about to meet the man of my dreams!”

At Heights, Jessica bumped into Aldo Basurto. The pair had much in common: Jessica and Aldo were both born in San Francisco, but had moved east to the suburbs. There was instantaneous chemistry, and the pair fell quickly, deeply in love.

Once engaged, Jessica and Aldo planned a wedding around two key components of their relationship: San Francisco and wine.

“We had a traditional Catholic Mexican ceremony incorporating traditions such as the unity cord, coins, and couple’s prayer,” says Jessica, describing the ceremony at Mission Dolores in San Francisco.

The reception was held at Pleasanton’s Palm Event Center. “[It] was not only a breathtaking and amazing venue, but it really connected with our love for wine,” says Jessica.

“It has a Tuscany feel.”

Because their big day required considerable logistics—Mission Dolores is 46 miles from the Palm Event Center, and they also stopped for photos in the Financial District— the San Ramon couple got help to make sure things ran smoothly.

“A wedding planner was well worth the investment,” says Aldo.

“We were able to enjoy every minute of the day.” —P.C.

Bridal Gown: Kleinfeld Bridal, New York (ceremony); Janene’s Bridal Boutique, Alameda (reception) | Cake: Kristie’s Cake Creations, San Ramon | Entertainment: Sal Delgado, San Francisco (DJ) | Flowers: Nicole Ha Designs, San Jose | Hair: Taylor Cercone, I Do DryStyle, Lafayette | Invitations: Papercake Designs, San Francisco | Makeup: Marina and Deeba from Mac, Nordstrom | Photographer: Stacey Pentland, Walnut Creek | Planner: Cierra Lockwood, Dreams on a Dime, San Francisco

44 DIABLO WEDDINGS

STACEY PENTLAND

A Toast to Love

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people real weddings

Best Friends for Life

T H E P UR PL E O R C H I D W I N E C O U N TRY RE S ORT AND S PA , L I V ERMO RE

T

They were college kids.

Stacey Kennelly and Jake Nester met at Chico State University, at a midnight showing of The Simpsons Movie, both having been invited by a mutual friend. They were just 19 and 18 years old at the time.

“He was the most handsome guy I’d ever seen,” says Stacey. “Then he smiled, and I thought to myself, ‘There’s no way he could be as nice as he seems.’ ” But it turns out, he was. Soon, the two were inseparable, attending concerts and exploring Chico’s great outdoors. Along the way, they graduated college, backpacked in more than a dozen countries, and moved back home to the East Bay, where they both grew up. In 2013, Jake proposed at the famed Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine in Kyoto, Japan.

Party planners by nature, Stacey and Jake poured their hearts into their September wedding at The Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort and Spa in Livermore, which landed just days after their eighth anniversary. The occasion was a chance for their blended families to officially join together, and their seven parents even performed a rap together during the reception.

“Becoming adults and building a life together has taught us so much about unconditional love,” says Jake.

“I can’t imagine growing old with anyone else.”

The couple honeymooned in Maui and live in Danville.

—Kelly Quintana

Bridal Gown: Flares Bridal and Formal, Walnut Creek | Cake: Cake Delight, Livermore | Entertainment: Amos Productions, Livermore (sound); Tomas Wischerath, San Francisco (DJ) | Flowers: Sunshine Flowers Wedding and Event Design, Martinez | Hair: Caitlin Dini, Walnut Creek | Invitations: Minted.com | Makeup: Amanda Pelham, San Francisco | Photographer: Jasmin Van T Photography, Oakland

46 DIABLO WEDDINGS

JASMIN VAN T PHOTOGRAPHY

Stacey Kennelly & Jake Nester

A Sweet Romance

Jackie Hochhauser & Keegan Rohan

RACHEL CAPIL PHOTOGRAPHY

CASA R E A L AT R U BY H I L L WI N ERY, PL EASAN TO N

J

Jackie Hochhauser and Keegan Rohan met while working at Walnut Creek Sports and Fitness (now Forma Gym), and quickly became best friends.

“I realized it was more than a friendship when I couldn’t wait to see him every day,” says Jackie.

Keegan agrees: “I knew she was the love of my life pretty quickly and just could not spend enough time with her.”

Because Jackie was raised in Walnut Creek and Keegan grew up in both Pleasant Hill and Alamo, the couple wanted to wed in the East Bay surrounded by friends and family. They looked for a venue in Livermore’s wine country and found the dazzling Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery in Pleasanton.

“We had a rustic wedding, with champagne, pale pink, and silver colors,” says Jackie.

Each of them enjoyed a decadent splurge at their reception. Jackie chose an elaborate candy selection. (“We both have quite the sweet tooth,” she says.) Keegan’s treat was a french fry bar: “I didn’t have too many overwhelming opinions during the planning process, but I was so excited to get the french fry bar,” he says.

After a hitch-free big day, the couple honeymooned on Kauai and Maui, then moved on to married life in Walnut Creek. —P.C.

Bridal Gown: Kinsley James Couture Bridal, Walnut Creek | Cake: Le Gâteau Elégant, Walnut Creek | Flowers: Sarah’s Garden, Danville | Hair: I Do DryStyle, Lafayette | Invitations: Paper Source, Walnut Creek | Makeup: Unveiling Designs by Heather, Petaluma | Photographer: Rachel Capil Photography, Pleasant Hill

D I A B L O W E D D I N G S 47

NATURE’S SPLENDOR

Meet six happy couples who recently said “I do.”

48 DIABLO WEDDINGS

JENNIFER SKOG

THREE WAYS TO STYLE YOUR ALFRESCO WEDDING—WHETHER YOU’RE PLANNING A SUMMER MORNING SOIREE, A FALL AFTERNOON AFFAIR, OR WINTER EVENING NUPTIALS. BY KATIE HENRY

D I A B L O W E D D I N G S 49

style guide outdoor weddings

VENUE Play off the unique aspects of Reinstein Ranch’s historic California ambience.

Have your ceremony out under the open sky with sweeping vistas of rolling grassy hills. 8201 Highland Rd., Livermore, (925) 583-4950, reinsteinranch.com.

1 SUMMER

COUNTRY CHIC

Celebrate your nuptials on a warm summer morning.

50 DIABLO WEDDINGS

DRESS Evoke the images of elegant women walking down dusty streets in a high-neck dress accented with lace and delicate buttons from Kinsley James Couture Bridal. Choose simple accessories that won’t distract from the details of the dress—and don’t be afraid to tousle your hair in an Edwardian fashion. 1623 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Walnut Creek, (925) 330-9228, kinsley james.com.

DECOR Build on the elements of the ranch that are already there: rusted chains, leather saddles, dark wood. Start with rustic chairs from Pleasanton Event Rentals and add dainty floral details. Include light lace runners on your tables, set with elements from the ranch. Accent your menu and bar with repurposed wood signage and bright white calligraphy.

7066-A Commerce Cir., Pleasanton, (925) 468-0624, pleasanton rentals.com.

FLOWERS Avoid structure. Opt for floral touches that remind your guests of wildflowers picked right from the field—a vision Pleasanton’s The Petal Company can help you perfect. Wild greens, white blooms, and pops of brick will accent free-form bouquets and bursts of flowers. Pleasanton, (925) 245-0008, thepetalco.com.

EXTRA TOUCH No true ranch wedding should skip the whiskey bar. Delight your guests with etched glass tumblers for samples of your favorite grain elixir.

Check out Livermore’s Sutherland Distilling Company for its early 2016 release or Berkeley’s Mosswood Distillers to stock your bar. 3189 Independence Dr., Livermore, (925) 447-0873, sutherland distilling.com; 2619 Seventh St., Berkeley, drinkmosswood.com.

ADDITIONAL CREDITS Hair and Makeup Lindsay Skog, PMA, (925) 240-3360, pma style.com.

— Menu The Idea Emporium, (805) 801-1102, theidea emporium.net.

— Set Design PJ Rude, Texture, insta gram.com/_texture_.

JENNIFER SKOG

VIBE The Wild West meets leather and lace for a romantic feel at a historic ranch.

JENNIFER SKOG

52 D I A B L O W E D D I N G S

style guide outdoor weddings

VIBE This wedding appears whimsical yet elegant, with a mixture of natural elements and feminine touches.

VENUE Take your love of vintage fabrics and the flavors of autumn to the woods and let Mother Nature set the canvas for your day. The redwood grove at the UC Botanical Garden is a fairytale spot for your ceremony. 200 Centennial Dr., Berkeley, (510) 642-3352, botanical garden.berkeley.edu.

2 FA L L

WHIMSICALLY WOODSY

DRESS Now’s the time to choose something unexpectedly natural.

Match the tone of the wedding with a boho-chic lace dress from Free People, and keep the vibe simple yet elegant with minimal accessories. 1540 Olympic Blvd., Walnut Creek, (925) 952-8426, freepeople.com.

DECOR Mix rustic with classic.

When combined with delicate plates, beige linens with vintage stitching add a romantic feel, while fall fruits such as pomegranates and pumpkins add seasonal color. Make a bold statement with bursts of copper, from charger plates to flatware.

Pleasanton Event Rentals, 7066-A Commerce Cir., Pleasanton, (925) 468-0624, pleasanton rentals.com.

FLOWERS Delicate blush petals and deep purple flowers pair well with lots of greenery for your natural setting. Sarah’s Garden can help you choose the perfect pairings, from berries and eucalyptus to café au lait dahlias and burgundy scabiosa. Danville, (415) 699-8206, sarahs gardendesign.com.

EXTRA TOUCH Opt for cupcakes with a homemade feel, and choose the flavors of the season. For fall, try pumpkin spice cupcakes with cream cheese frosting from Sarah’s Sweets. Danville, (925) 389-3371, sarahmeskin.wix.com/ cupcake.

ADDITIONAL CREDITS Hair West Side Salon, (925) 743-0745.

— Makeup Makeup by Adele, (925) 683-8548, makeup byadele.com.

— Set Design Lindsay Lauren Events, (925) 683-8547, lindsay laurenevents.com.

— Signage Heartcrafted Co., heartcraftedco.com.

RACHEL CAPIL PHOTOGRAPHY

Let the midday sun light up your big moment.

DIABLO WEDDINGS 53

style guide outdoor weddings

VIBE An intimate affair is the perfect way to bring a whole lot of warmth to a winter evening, especially when set in an elegant winery courtyard.

VENUE Vineyards shouldn’t be enjoyed only in the daytime. Twinkling lights and softly flowing fountains are charming for evening nuptials at Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery in Pleasanton.

Here, you’ll feel as if you’ve escaped to a world made just for you.

410 Vineyard Ave., Pleasanton, (925) 931-0200, casarealevents.com.

3 WINTER

VINEYARD ELEGANCE

DRESS A simple dress from J’aime Bridal pairs well with dramatic accessories. Shield yourself from the cold with a fur stole and gloves in a jewel tone. 719 Main St., Pleasanton, (925) 8468459, jaimebridal.com.

DECOR Couches and oversized arm chairs will make your guests feel right at home by bringing the indoors outside. Drape soft pashminas over chairs for a touch of cozy and furnish quiet corners for candlelight conversations. Market lights strung from tree to tree give an inviting, somewhere-special feel to the elegant setting.

Pleasanton Event Rentals, 7066-A Commerce Cir., Pleasanton, (925) 468-0624. pleasanton rentals.com.

FLOWERS Dark florals adorned with emerald greenery are a dramatic contrast to soft lighting and delicate fabrics. With help from Nicole Ha Designs, select flowers in burgundy and dark fuchsia, which will add glamorous pops of color. 1721 Rogers Ave., Ste. O, San Jose, (408) 421-0388, nicoleha.com.

EXTRA TOUCH Supply s’mores fixin’s such as chocolate-sprinkled marshmallows from Concord’s Rachel Dunn Chocolates and hot chocolate in kooziewrapped mugs. Gather around the fire pit to keep the festivities going all night. 1021 Detroit Ave., Concord, (925) 798-4321, rachel dunnchocolates.com.

ADDITIONAL CREDITS Hair and Makeup Lindsay Skog, PMA, (925) 240-3360, pma style.com.

— Set Design PJ Rude, Texture, insta gram.com/_texture_.

— Wardrobe Jennifer and Lindsay Skog, jenniferskog.com, lindsayskog.com. ■

JENNIFER SKOG

Party well into the night after exchanging vows.

54 DIABLO WEDDINGS

RESOURCE GUIDE bridal boutiques / cakes and sweets / caterers / entertainment / florists / invitations photographers / rentals / venues / wedding planners

Bridal Boutiques Blossom’s Bridal and Formal 6700 Amador Plaza Rd., Dublin (925) 560-0402, blossomsdress.com Bride’s Corral 150 N. L St., Livermore (925) 455-1244 Flares Bridal and Formal 1700 N. Broadway St., Ste. 100, Walnut Creek (925) 939-3306, flaresbridal.com Free People 1540 Olympic Blvd., Walnut Creek (925) 952-8426, freepeople.com **I Do! Bridal Boutique 5332 College Ave., Oakland (510) 282-0730, bridalshopoakland.com J’aime Bridal 719 Main St., Pleasanton (925) 846-8459, jaimebridal.com Janene’s Bridal Boutique 2418 Central Ave., Alameda (510) 217-8076, janenesbridal.com **Kinsley James Couture Bridal 1623 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Walnut Creek (925) 330-9228, kinsleyjames.com **Lace and Bustle Bridal 3569 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette (925) 298-4100, laceandbustle.com

Sari Palace 1000 University Ave., Berkeley (510) 841-7274 **Advertising partner 56 DIABLO WEDDINGS

Kinsley James Couture Bridal

NORMA CORDOVA

**La Soie Bridal 1413 Cypress St., Walnut Creek (925) 933-9988, lasoiebridal.com

ONE LUCKY BRIDE WINS A $10,000 WEDDING TRUNK AT EVERY SHOW!

VIEW MORE DATES AND BOOK YOUR TICKET TODAY: WWW.LUXEBRIDALSHOWSF.COM

PHOTO BY CLANE GESSEL MORE AT WWW.CLANEGESSEL.COM

resource guide caterers

True Confections Berkeley (510) 665-9836, trueconfectionscakes.com The Whole Cake 1609 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley (415) 828-7464, thewholecake.com

Caterers Absolute Celebrations Catering 2603 Camino Ramon, Ste. 200, San Ramon (925) 858-1049, sfbayareacaterer.com The Arlington 269 Arlington Ave., Kensington (510) 525-2757, 269thearlington.com Aurora Catering Berkeley (510) 582-9529, auroracateringbayarea.com Barbara Llewellyn Catering and Event Planning 434 25th St., Oakland (510) 832-1967, barbarallewellyn.com Blue Heron Catering Oakland (510) 533-0781, blueheroncatering.com

Carrie Dove Catering and Events 1552 Beach St., Ste. C, Emeryville (415) 460-9995, carriedovecatering.com Checkers Catering and Special Events Livermore (925) 968-1121, checkerscatering.com **Classic Catering 2653 Pleasant Hill Rd., Pleasant Hill (925) 939-9224, classiccater.com

60 DIABLO WEDDINGS

Barbara Llewellyn Catering and Event Planning

Componere Fine Catering 5836 San Pablo Ave., Emeryville (510) 420-0900, componerefinecatering.com Culinary Excellence 8210 Capwell Dr., Oakland (510) 644-0612, culinaryexcellence.com Elegant Occasions Catering and Event Planning Martinez (925) 372-6660, elegantoccasionscatering.com Englund’s Cafe and Catering 4061 Port Chicago Hwy., Ste. J, Concord (925) 609-5989, englundscatering.com

**Fraiche Catering by Patrick David Danville/San Francisco (925) 683-2800, fraichecater.com Grace Street Catering 4629 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Oakland (510) 523-1600, gracestreetcatering.com La Bocca Fina Fine Catering Hayward (510) 264-0276, laboccafina.com **Lantern Catering Company 1941 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill (925) 322-8414, lanterncatering.com

La Tapatia Mexican Cuisine 1802 Willow Pass Rd., Concord (925) 685-1985; 536 Main St., Martinez (925) 229-3866, latapatia.net Miraglia Catering San Leandro (510) 483-5210, cateringandmore.com On the Vine Catering Livermore (925) 518-7244, onthevinecatering.com Paula LeDuc Fine Catering 1350 Park Ave., Emeryville (510) 547-7825, paulaleduc.com

DAMION HAMILTON

**Bon Vivant Catering and Event Productions Livermore (925) 606-5535, bonvivantcatering.net

resource guide caterers

Ralph’s Catering Brentwood (925) 625-2307, cateringbyralph.com RoliRoti Gourmet Rotisserie Oakland (510) 780-0300, roliroti.com Royal Raspberry Catering Oakland (510) 538-8162, royalraspberry.com Serves You Right Catering Berkeley (510) 527-8809, servesyourightcatering.com Simply Catered Brentwood (925) 240-1812, simplycateredforyou.com Small Thyme Catering Concord (925) 437-3327, smallthymecatering.com Sunrise Bistro and Catering 1559 Botelho Dr., Walnut Creek (925) 930-6323, sunrisebistrocatering.com Susan Foord Catering Alamo susanfoordcatering.com Wilma Lott Catering 3840 Alhambra Ave., Martinez (925) 372-8612, wilmalottcatering.com

Entertainment DJS A Sound Explosion Event Productions 253 Riddell Ln., Alameda (510) 821-4998, asoundexplosion.com

Brad Kinney Productions 7011 Koll Center Pkwy., Pleasanton (800) 734-1372, bradkinney.com Paula LeDuc Fine Catering

62 D I A B L O W E D D I N G S

KATHLEEN HARRISON

**Amos Productions 5715 Southfront Rd., Ste. C1, Livermore (925) 449-3847, amospro.com

1475 N. BROADWAY | WALNUT CREEK | 925-947-1814 | WWW.CHANGESSALON.COM

perfect look LET US CREATE THE

FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY.

Delight your bridal party as you celebrate and relax in Changes’ Bliss Suite.

Contact Changes’ event concierge to customize your special day.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GARDENS AT HEATHER FARM

PHOTO CREDIT: LYNDS PHOTOGRAPHY

WINNER BEST DAY SPA 2015

Experience scenic beauty and sophisticated elegance in

Walnut Creek— the Jewel of the East Bay

925.934.2007 www.visitwalnutcreek.org/weddings

D I A B L O W E D D I N G S 63

resource guide entertainment

Daley Entertainment Agency (D.E.A.) Brentwood (925) 766-8677, dea4fun.com

Bennetta Heaton (Harpist) Danville (925) 820-1169

Angels Petals Martinez (925) 951-8046, angelspetals1.blogspot.com

Denon and Doyle 2245 Morello Ave., Pleasant Hill (925) 944-5021, djay.com

Busta Groove (Band) Hayward (408) 981-6451, busta-groove.com

Anne Mendenhall Flowers Walnut Creek (925) 287-8142, annemendenhallflowers.com

Exeter String Quartet Oakland (510) 839-3828, exeterquartet.com

Belle-Flower 5745 Horton St., Ste. B, Emeryville (510) 284-7081, belle-flower.com

Eastwood Entertainment 14850 Hwy. 4, Discovery Bay (800) 788-4235, eastwoodentertainment.com Fantasy Sound Event Services 345 Stealth Ct., Livermore (925) 373-1934, fantasysound.com In the Mix Productions 23897 Thurston Ct., Hayward (510) 214-3701, itmp.com Magic Entertainment 309 Coal Mine Ct., Clayton (925) 628-5801, djmagicent.com Mark Davis DJ Services Livermore (866) 874-8253, trivaldj.com MWE Martinez (925) 228-6275, mwedjs.com Pacific Entertainment (Plus musicians) 125 Sunset Cir., Ste. 48, Benicia (707) 642-4390, pacificentertainment.biz Perry’s Mobile Disc Jockey 65 Mosswood Ct., Livermore (925) 606-1732, perrysmobiledj.com Quantum Music Event Planners 111 Center Ave., Martinez (925) 586-8316, quantummusic.net Thump Sound 4283 Clarinbridge Cir., Dublin (510) 331-1746, thumpsound.net 21st Century Sounds 3195 Danville Blvd., Ste. 7, Alamo (925) 938-2858, 21stcenturysounds.com

MUSICIANS An Elegant Touch of Strings (Classical) Oakley (925) 625-4363, baysbest.com 64 DIABLO WEDDINGS

Kevin Toqe Music (Guitarist and vocalist) Walnut Creek kevintoqe.com Krista Strader (Harpist) Pleasant Hill (877) 415-4277, kristastrader.com Musical Heart Strings (Classical) Martinez (925) 603-3002, musicalheartstrings.net **925 Entertainment Group San Ramon (925) 413-7166, 925entertainmentgroup.com Prime Time Entertainment (Plus performers) 2430 Research Dr., Livermore (925) 449-1724, primetimeentertainment.com The Turnaround Jazz Ensemble Oakland (510) 387-8096, turnaroundjazz.com

PERFORMERS Celebrity Gems Entertainment (Various entertainers) 4061 E. Castro Valley Blvd., Castro Valley (510) 581-5964, celebritygems.com

Florists A Love’s in Bloom Martinez (925) 408-6702, alovesinbloom.com

Bloomies on Main 915 Main St., Pleasanton (925) 931-1290, bloomiesonmainca.com Bouquetière Floral Designs Berkeley (925) 209-6812, bouquetiere.com Cattails Florist 9000 Crow Canyon Rd., Danville (925) 736-9494, cattailsflorist.com Delford West Flowers Livermore (925) 606-8818, delfordwestflowers.com East Bay Flower Company 206 Sycamore Valley Rd. W., Danville (925) 837-3418, eastbayflowercompany.com Florali 2345 Boulevard Cir., Walnut Creek (925) 934-6877, florali.com Floralisa Hercules/Rodeo (510) 734-4475, floralisa.com Floravida Events 2100 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Ste. 6, San Ramon (408) 396-2972, floravidaevents.com **Floret 3581 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Ste. C, Lafayette (925) 310-4546, floretlafayette.com

Flower Bowl Florist 2325 Boulevard Cir., Walnut Creek (925) 935-0800, flowerbowlflorist.com The Flower House 2021 Las Positas Ct., Livermore (925) 960-1375, theflowerhouse.com **Fringe Flower Company 1489 Newell Ave., Walnut Creek (925) 278-2697, fringeflowers.com Good Scents 3513 Main St., Oakley (925) 625-5550, goodscentsflorist.com Katharina Stuart Floral Art and Design 1230 Contra Costa Dr., El Cerrito (510) 406-3404, katharinastuart.com Katherine Bergman Floral Designs Walnut Creek (925) 210-0487, floraldesigner.com Kay Wolff Design 1177 Grizzly Peak Blvd., Berkeley (510) 540-1931, makingarrangements.com Laura Miller Design Oakland (510) 336-9226, lauramillerdesign.com Livermore Valley Florist 224 S. J St., Livermore (925) 443-3450, livermorevalleyflorist.com Megan Haney Designs 1537 N. Main St., Ste. R, Walnut Creek (925) 962-1119, meganhaneydesigns.com Pat Gibbons Floral Designs El Cerrito (510) 527-3197, patgibbonsfloral.com Paula’s Family Florist Antioch (925) 756-6000, paulasfamilyflorist.com The Petal Company Pleasanton (925) 249-0008, thepetalco.com

resource guide florists

The Petal Pusher Pleasanton (925) 846-0415, the-petal-pusher.com Ribbons and Roses Brentwood (925) 634-3832, ribbonsandrosesflorals.com Sarah’s Garden Danville (415) 699-8206, sarahsgardendesign.com Sunshine Flowers Wedding and Event Design 4911 Milden Rd., Martinez (925) 228-6123, sunshineflowers.com Tri Valley Flowers 5311 Hopyard Rd., Pleasanton (925) 469-1300, trivalleyflowers.com **Tumbleweed Floral Truck Danville (925) 785-6546, tumbleweedfloraltruck.com Twigss Floral Studio 169 E. Prospect Ave., Danville (925) 272-9334, twigss.com Victoria’s Florals and Event Design Hayward (510) 368-6876, victoriasflorals.com

Invitations The Aerialist Press 43 Quail Ct., Ste. 203, Walnut Creek (510) 520-6749, theaerialistpress.com Creative Designs by Mimi Concord (925) 787-0665, creativemimi.com Fleming’s Printed Affair 460 Boulevard Way, Oakland (510) 654-9903 flemingsprintedaffair.com Good on Paper Berkeley (510) 501-3337, goodonpaperdesign.com

66 DIABLO WEDDINGS

Inviting Ways 4 Van Cleave Ln., Walnut Creek (925) 256-8410, invitingways.com

Cauchi Photography Dublin (925) 875-1880, cauchi.com

Linea Carta by Diva Pyari 2904 Mabel St., Berkeley (510) 688-7288, linea-carta.com

Cazinha Portrait Design 551 Main St., Pleasanton (925) 249-1999, cazinhaportrait.com

Paper Source 1567 Botelho Dr., Walnut Creek (925) 357-6200, papersource.com

Cohn Frankel Photography Berkeley (510) 882-1980, cohnfrankelphotography.com

Papineau Calligraphy 5736 Thornhill Dr. Ste. 103, Oakland (510) 339-2301, papineaucalligraphy.com Reb Peters Press 1906 Mandela Pkwy., Oakland (415) 202-3902, rebpeterspress.com Susan Gildea Personalized Printing 3020 Ashby Ave., Berkeley (510) 883-0890, susangildea.com Twig and Fig 2110 Vine St., Berkeley (510) 848-5599, twigandfig.com

Photographers Adeline and Grace Photography Benicia (707) 815-9510, adelineandgrace.com AGB Photographics Oakland (415) 504-7791, agbphotographics.com Angie Capri Photography 1980 Olivera Rd., Ste. C, Concord (925) 338-1104, angiecapri.com Brian Gross Photography Danville (925) 895-4321, briangrossphoto graphy.blogspot.com Brian MacStay Photography Concord (925) 348-8856, brianmacstay.com Candid Moments Photography Antioch (925) 778-5085, candidmomentsweddings.com

Connie Leal Photography 865 Griffith Ln., Brentwood (925) 550-8506, connielealphotography.com Dana Todd Photography Livermore (408) 655-1297, danatoddphotography.com Discovery Bay Studios Photography Discovery Bay (925) 216-4454, discoverybaystudios.com Doorstep Photography San Ramon (925) 556-5412, doorstepdigital.com Dubnoff Wedding Photography 1485 Enea Ct., Ste. 1330, Concord (925) 686-4960, dubnoffphoto.com Eli Photographer 39 California Ave., Ste. 107, Pleasanton (510) 429-9525, eliphotographer.com Emily Takes Photos Oakland emilytakesphotos.com Eric James Photography Walnut Creek (925) 451-5332, ericjamesphoto.com Gabriel Harber Photography Oakland (510) 967-6244, harberphotography.com Gina Halferty Photography Pleasanton (925) 231-5495, ginahalfertyphoto.com

Elise Nicole Photography Concord (925) 788-8820, elisenicolephotography.com James Brian Studios 1727 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek (925) 934-4455, jamesbrian.com Jasmin Van T Photography Oakland (510) 491-6517, jasminvantphoto.com Jennifer Skog Dublin jenniferskog.com Jessamyn Photography 244 Western Hills Dr., Pleasant Hill (925) 698-4058, jessamynphotography.com Josh Isaacs Photography 244 Western Hills Dr., Pleasant Hill (925) 285-7316, jjisaacs.com Julie Cheshire Photography Clayton (925) 798-5804, juliecheshire.com Julie Mikos Photography Berkeley (510) 681-7616, juliemikos.com Karen Bates Photography Montclair (510) 530-5265, karenbatesphoto.com Ken Perkes Photography 1304 Willow Lake Rd., Discovery Bay (925) 513-3649, perkesphoto.zenfolio.com Lori Rittinger Photography 3195 Danville Blvd., Ste. 7, Alamo (925) 934-2103, rittingerphotography.com Lynds Photo Lafayette (925) 962-0180, lyndsphoto.com MEF Photography Concord (877) 227-0722, mefphoto.com

resource guide photographers

Modern Love Photography 1035 B St., Hayward (510) 698-1517, modernlovephotography.com **Nicole Quiroz Photography Martinez (925) 565-6191, nicolequiroz.com Nightingale Photography Oakland (510) 338-2997, nightingalephotos.com Onelove Photography Walnut Creek (925) 360-9755, onelove-photo.com Photography by Kelsey Walnut Creek (925) 588-5502, photographybykelsey.net Rachel Capil Photography 25 Crescent Dr., Ste. 354, Pleasant Hill (925) 609-7270, rachelcapilevents.com **Richard Haick Photography Alameda (510) 219-1093, rfhaick.com Stacey Pentland Photography Walnut Creek (415) 710-2619, staceypentlandphoto.com Stephanie Secrest Artistic Wedding Photography Alameda (510) 337-9796, secrestweddings.com Ultra-Spective Photography 4749 Bennett Dr., Ste. F, Livermore (925) 449-9879, ultra-spective.com Waldman Photography Berkeley (818) 934-0874, waldmanphotography.com YJM Photography Oakland (510) 382-0280, yjmphotography.com

68 DIABLO WEDDINGS

Rentals **C&M Party Props 1942 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Walnut Creek (925) 934-3181, cmparty.com Chairs for Affairs Party Rentals 3610 Pacheco Blvd., Martinez (925) 370-1300, chairsforaffairs.com Das Bus Oakland (510) 710-5580, das-bus.com **Glass Coat Photo Booth 933 Treat St., San Francisco (800) 390-3685, glasscoatphotobooth.com A Grande Affair Party and Event Rentals 12907 Alcosta Blvd., Ste. B, San Ramon (925) 275-1075, agarents.com Napa Valley Linens 1315 63rd St., Emeryville (510) 788-4551, nvlinens.com Pleasanton Event Rentals 7066 Commerce Cir., Ste. A, Pleasanton (925) 468-0624, pleasantonrentals.com **SnapFiesta San Francisco (855) 762-7343, snapfiesta.com

Venues CENTRAL CONTRA COSTA COUNTY **Boundary Oak Golf Course 3800 Valley Vista Rd., Walnut Creek (925) 934-3600, Ext. 21 playboundaryoak.com Contra Costa Country Club 801 Golf Club Rd., Pleasant Hill (925) 798-7135, contracostacc.org Crowne Plaza Concord/Walnut Creek 45 John Glenn Drive, Concord (925) 825-7700, crowneplazaconcord.com

Diablo Ranch 1453 N. Gate Rd., Walnut Creek (925) 837-2290, bayarearanchweddings.com Embassy Suites by Hilton Walnut Creek 1345 Treat Blvd., Walnut Creek (925) 934-2500, embassysuites3.hilton.com The Gardens at Heather Farm 1540 Marchbanks Dr., Walnut Creek (925) 947-1678, gardenshf.org **Oakhurst Country Club 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton (925) 672-9737, Ext. 217, oakhurstcc.com **Pleasant Hill Community Center 147 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill (925) 682-0896, pleasanthillrec.com Renaissance ClubSport Walnut Creek 2805 Jones Rd., Walnut Creek (925) 938-8700, renaissanceclub sport.com/walnut-creek Scott’s Seafood Walnut Creek 1333 N. California Blvd., Walnut Creek (925) 934-1300, scottswc.com **Walnut Creek Marriott 2355 N. Main St., Walnut Creek (925) 934-2000, marriottwalnutcreek.com

EAST CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Brownstone Gardens 91 Brownstone Rd., Oakley (925) 418-4532, brownstonegardens.com Club Los Meganos 1700 Trilogy Pkwy., Brentwood (925) 809-7191, vineyardsweddings .com/clmweddings

Lone Tree Golf Course and Event Center 4800 Golf Course Rd., Antioch (925) 706-4220, lonetreegolfcourse.com Newberry Estate Vineyards 2525 Sunset Rd., Brentwood (925) 516-3300, newberryestatevineyards.com

LAMORINDA Church of Santa Maria 40 Santa Maria Way, Orinda (925) 254-2426, santamariaorinda.com Hacienda de las Flores 2100 Donald Dr., Moraga (925) 888-7045, moragahacienda.com **Lafayette Park Hotel and Spa 3287 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette (925) 263-1725, lafayetteparkhotel.com Orinda Country Club 315 Camino Sobrante, Orinda (925) 254-4314, Ext. 277, orindacc.org

TRI-VALLEY **Alcosta Senior and Community Center 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon (925) 973-3250, sanramonvenues.com **Amador Rancho Center 1998 Rancho Park Loop Rd., San Ramon (925) 973-3200, sanramonvenues.com Blackhawk Automotive Museum 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Cir., Danville (925) 736-4818, blackhawkmuseum.org

Hannah Nicole Vineyards 6700 Balfour Rd., Brentwood (925) 240-9463, hnvwines.com

Blackhawk Country Club 599 Blackhawk Club Dr., Danville (925) 736-6500, Ext. 557, blackhawkcc.org

La Grande Wedding and Event Center 1799 Carpenter Rd., Oakley (925) 435-4461, thelagrande.com

BoaVentura de Caires Winery 9309 Tesla Rd., Livermore (925) 606-9672, boaventuravineyard.com

Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa Four-star cuisine and personalized service, along with amenities such as The Spa and luxurious guestrooms.

Celebrate with us!

3287 Mt. Diablo Boulevard Lafayette, CA 94549 www.lafayetteparkhotel.com weddings@lafayetteparkhotel.com

resource guide venues

The Bridges Golf Club 9000 S. Gale Ridge Rd., San Ramon (925) 735-4253, thebridgesgolf.com **Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery 410 Vineyard Ave., Pleasanton (925) 931-0200, casarealevents.com Castlewood Country Club 707 Country Club Cir., Pleasanton (925) 485-2237, castlewoodcc.org **Concannon Vineyard 4590 Tesla Rd., Livermore (925) 456-2505, concannonvineyard.com Crooked Vine Winery 4948 Tesla Rd., Livermore (925) 449-0458, crookedvine.com Crow Canyon Country Club 711 Silver Lake Dr., Danville (925) 735-5710, clubcorp.com/clubs/ crow-canyon-country-club Diablo Country Club 1700 Club House Rd., Diablo (925) 837-4221, diablocc.org **DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Pleasanton at the Club 7050 Johnson Dr., Pleasanton (925) 463-8000, doubletree3.hilton.com **Dougherty Station Community Center 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd., San Ramon (925) 973-3351, sanramonvenues.com **Elliston Vineyards 463 Kilkare Rd., Sunol (925) 862-2377, elliston.com Garré Vineyard and Winery 7986 Tesla Rd., Livermore (925) 371-8200, garrewinery.com

Nella Terra Cellars 5005 Sheridan Rd., Sunol (510) 754-9877, nellaterra.com Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery

70 D I A B L O W E D D I N G S

STACEY PENTLAND

Murrieta’s Well 3005 Mines Rd., Livermore (925) 456-2395, murrietaswell.com

A single day. A lifetime of memories.

At DoubleTree by HiltonTM Pleasanton at the Club, we know your wedding is the most important day of your life. So whether you’re dreaming of an intimate gathering or a huge celebration, we’re committed to getting every detail just right.

Pleasanton, CA part of the Livermore Valley is just 30 minutes from San Francisco and San Jose and offers so much for you and your wedding guests to enjoy... Wine Tasting, Golfing, Shopping.

We can assist with guestrooms, a rehearsal dinner, your outdoor ceremony & reception...

DoubleTree by Hilton. Where the little things mean everything.TM (formerly known as Hilton Pleasanton at the Club)

7050 Johnson Drive, Pleasanton, CA 94588 T 925-463-8000 F 925-463-0649 www.doubletree.pleasanton.com Hilton HHonorsTM membership, earning of Points & MilesTM and redemption of points are subject to HHonors Terms and Conditions. @2013 Hilton Worldwide

DIABLO WEDDINGS 71

resource guide venues

**Palm Event Center in the Vineyard 1184 Vineyard Ave., Pleasanton (925) 426-8666, palmeventcenter.com Poppy Ridge Golf Course 4280 Greenville Rd., Livermore (925) 456-8238, poppyridgegolf.com **The Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort and Spa 4549 Cross Rd., Livermore (925) 606-8855, purpleorchid.com **The Ranch at Little Hills 18013 Bollinger Canyon Rd., San Ramon (925) 837-8158, littlehillsweddings.com Ravenswood Historical Site 2647 Arroyo Rd., Livermore (925) 373-5708, larpd.org/rentals/ ravenswood.html Reinstein Ranch 8201 Highland Rd., Livermore (925) 583-4950, reinsteinranch.com Rios-Lovell Estate Winery 6500 Tesla Rd., Livermore (925) 443-0434, rioslovellwinery.com Ruby Hill Golf Club 3400 W. Ruby Hill Dr., Pleasanton (925) 461-3504, rubyhill.com **San Ramon Community Center 12501 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon 925.973.3200, sanramonvenues.com Sunol Valley Golf Club 6900 Mission Rd., Sunol (925) 862-2408, sunolvalley.com **Wedgewood Wedding and Banquet Center (at San Ramon Golf Club) 9430 Fircrest Lane, San Ramon (925) 808-7352, wedgewoodbanquet.com Wente Vineyards 5050 Arroyo Rd., Livermore (925) 456-2425, wentevineyards.com

SOLANO/WEST CONTRA COSTA COUNTIES Hiddenbrooke Golf Club 1095 Hiddenbrooke Pkwy., Vallejo (707) 558-0330, hiddenbrookegolf.com Jefferson Street Mansion 1063 Jefferson St., Benicia (707) 746-0684, jeffersonstreetmansion.com The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina 2000 Glen Cove Marina Rd., Vallejo (707) 704-9014, thelighthousegcm.com The Old Homestead 995 Loring Ave., Crockett (510) 787-2728, theoldhomesteadonline.org

WEST OF CALDECOTT Berkeley City Club 2315 Durant Ave., Berkeley (510) 280-1532, berkeleycityclub.com Brazilian Room Tilden Park, Berkeley (510) 544-3164, ebparks.org **Chabot Space and Science Center 10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland (510) 336-7300, chabotspace.org **Claremont Club and Spa, A Fairmont Hotel 41 Tunnel Rd., Berkeley (800) 551-7266, claremontresort.com **The Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate 2960 Peralta Oaks Ct., Oakland (510) 615-5555, dunsmuir-hellman.com **Hotel Shattuck Plaza 2086 Allston Way, Berkeley (510) 845-7300, hotelshattuckplaza.com Joie de Vivre Waterfront Hotel 10 Washington St., Oakland (510) 836-3800, jdvhotels.com Lake Chalet 1520 Lakeside Dr., Oakland (510) 208-5253, thelakechalet.com

72 D I A B L O W E D D I N G S

Oakland Museum of California 1000 Oak St., Oakland (510) 318-8400, museumca.org Preservation Park 1233 Preservation Park Way, Oakland (510) 874-7580, preservationpark.com Rock Wall Wine Company 2301 Monarch St., Ste. 300, Alameda (510) 522-5700, Ext. 24, rockwallwines.com Sequoyah Country Club 4550 Heafey Rd., Oakland (510) 632-2900, sequoyahcc.com Snow Building (at Oakland Zoo) 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland (510) 632-9525, Ext. 200, oaklandzoo.org **Terrace Room (at Lake Merritt Hotel) 1800 Madison St., Oakland (510) 903-3771, theterraceroom.com UC Botanical Garden 200 Centennial Dr., Berkeley (510) 642-3352, botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu

Wedding Planners A Monique Affair 1624 Franklin St., Ste. 500, Oakland (510) 334-3752, amoniqueaffair.com Bliss Event Productions 612 Stoneman Ct., Benicia (707) 746-6136, blisseventproductions.com Carolyn Wilson Weddings and Events Livermore (925) 315-9589, carolynwilsonevents.com Celebrations By Cindy Walnut Creek (209) 614-5621, celebrationsbycindy.com

Dreamcatcher Events 210 Lakewood Rd., Walnut Creek (925) 947-3999, dreamcatcherevents.com Eventful Days Castro Valley (510) 206-6474, eventfuldays.net Eventfully Yours, Event Designs by Rayna Martinez (925) 330-2371, eventdesignsbyrayna.com Events By Wallace Danville (925) 867-1515, eventsbywallace.com **Lindsay Lauren Events Danville (925) 683-8547, lindsaylaurenevents.com Lowe House Events Oakland (510) 545-9354, lowehousecreative.com Simply by Bethaina Walnut Creek (925) 200-9662, simplybybethaina.com Sugar Rush Events Walnut Creek (925) 212-6904, sugarrushevents.com Tiffany Francies Events Brentwood (707) 718-7355, tiffanyfrancies.com Your Event By Erin Walnut Creek (858) 774-0909, youreventbyerin.com Your Moments Wedding and Event Planning 4115 Blackhawk Plaza Cir., Ste. 100, Danville (925) 322-1138, yourmomentsevents.com Weddings by Image Three 45 Quail Ct., Ste. 102, Walnut Creek (925) 935-3845, weddingsbyimagethree.com

Bridges Restaurant and Bar offers an inviting and warm atmosphere for celebrating wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, and mimosa bridal shower brunches.

In this urban-casual setting, let our celebrity executive chef, Kevin Gin, create a personalized wedding menu that will dazzle your guests. Bridges offers elegant

t Exquisite food and customized menu t Accommodate up to 150 guests t Impeccable service t Stress-free planning

dining areas, a contemporary bar and lounge, and an open patio surrounded by lush greenery. Open air bar and live music options available.Â

Contact Bridges today to schedule your tour of our event dining area and special event seasonal menu options.

480 Hartz Avenue, Danville | www.thevineatbridges.com | 925-820-7210 Looking to kick off your event at a wine bar? The Vine at Bridges provides guests with the East Bay’s Premier Wine Experience.

Wine bar, specialty tastings, customized food and wine parings, and more than 350 artisan produced, hand selected wine for purchase in our retail shop.

D I A B L O W E D D I N G S 73

Two stories of century old casks line the stone walls of Merryvale’s Cask Room, often cited as the Napa Valley’s most enchanting setting for special events.

A magical setting for family occasions, rehearsal dinners and wedding receptions.

Every detail is carefully attended to by our experienced staff. Our highly acclaimed wines are paired with delectable cuisine of celebrated Napa Valley chefs. Merryvale brings an unparalleled level of creativity and enjoyment to your event!

To book your private event, please contact 707-968-3429 or events@merryvale.com Visit one of Napa Valley’s most historic wineries!

Open Daily 10:30 - 5:30 pm 1000 Main Street, St. Helena

CALIFORNIA’S MOST SPECTACULAR BRIDAL EVENT

S

ay “I Do” to 2 free tickets to the Westin St Francis, San Francisco on Sunday, January 17th

Filled with spectacular decor, innovative floral, luxe tabletop designs, and inspiration galore, Modern Luxury Weddings at The Westin St. Francis offers an inspirational setting in which to meet with the Bay Area’s most celebrated and sought-after wedding professionals. Delight your palate with inspiring tastings created by the very best caterers, sip cocktails and enjoy makeovers and treatments from Saks Fifth Avenue, Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci. View the most breathtaking bridal gowns, high-fashion runway shows, photography, videography, flowers, unique decor, unforgettable S P O N S O R E D BY atmospheres, and unlimited possibilities for your wedding celebration.

2 Free Tickets at www.modernbridal.com/amex | 800.400.2099

Lindsay Noonan

925.683.8547 | www.LindsayLaurenEvents.com FULL PLANNING + DESIGN | PARTIAL PLANNING MONTH-OF COORDINATION | SOCIAL SOIREES

Elliston

Vineyards

weddings • special events • wine tasting 463 Kilkare Road • Sunol, California • 925.862.2377 • www.elliston.com

Forever Starts Now

Newlyweds steal away from their Danville wedding to watch the sun set over Mount Diablo and the San Ramon Valley.

88 DIABLO WEDDINGS

THIS LOVE OF YOURS PHOTOGRAPHY

BEST WISHES

IMAGE BY GREG SWALES

1623 Mt. Diablo Blvd.

Walnut Creek

925.330.9228