Classic, Lush Wedding at Harvest Inn Napa

Working with these two to bring a last-minute change of plans elopement to life was a dream. Harvest Inn in Napa was an ideal spot for this 10 person wedding -- the sweeping vineyard views, lush garden roses, stately redwood trees, and the romantic string-lit patio made for a beautiful setting. Napa wine country is *not* the worst place to kick off your nuptials, let me tell you. 

I call Jesenia’s wedding day vibes classic-meets-glam-meets-modern. I mean, is that dress for real!? So stunning. Her gown inspired my designs for the day. I used a mix of more traditional luxe blooms, like anemone and ranunculus, then added a contemporary-glam twist with sleek anthuriums -- all in a neutral palette. 

The icing on the cake was having Anna Elizabeth Photography capture their day so beautifully. Congrats to you two, Jesenia and Matt! 

VENDORS

Floral Design: Anastasia Andenmatten

Photography: Anna Elizabeth Photography

 Venue: Harvest Inn

Bridal: Maggie Sottero

Anastasia Andenmatten is a floral design studio based in the San Francisco Bay Area with a modern approach to customizing florals for weddings, businesses, and events.

Q & A: By Alysa Monét & Co.

Krista Marie Photography

Today on the blog I have Alysa Monét of by Alysa Monét & Co. Not only is she the owner and lead designer of her planning company, but she’s also a mental health practitioner. I have loved hearing her speak so passionately about her work in the field, and how she works closely with her couples to help them remain present, stress-free, and excited throughout their entire planning process.

In today’s post, Alysa is sharing with us strategies to stay grounded right now, how to elevate your wedding design *and* incorporate sustainability with a smaller wedding, her #1 tip for how to prioritize your wedding budget, and so many more goodies you'll just have to read on to find out! Enjoy!

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Q: Hey Alysa, welcome! Tell us a little about yourself, where you’re located, and the services you offer.

Hey! My name is Alysa Monét and I’m the owner and lead designer of by Alysa Monét & Co. I’m located in San Jose, Ca, which is also my hometown! I offer a variety of services to engaged couples including wedding day coordination and full service wedding planning. I’m a designer at heart so it excites me to be able to participate fully in the wedding planning process with my couples but at the end of the day, I truly just enjoy working with couples who are in love however they need my support. Most of my weddings have taken place up the California central coast and I’m available for travel anywhere worldwide (pending COVID restrictions, of course!) 

My sister and my husband are an integral part of my business and team and bring a breadth of perspective and experience to the wedding planning process and the wedding day production. There’s definitely an art to working with family and I think we’ve nailed it. Working weddings together comes with a lot of laughing, snacks (SO many snacks), and singing ABBA’s Dancing Queen at least once (it’s become a ritual for us). 

Outside of wedding planning and designing I also work in the mental health field with children in foster care and with children in juvenile detention. It’s tough work but it fills my cup up and splitting my time in these two fields helps me exercise different parts of my creativity, which I really appreciate and enjoy.

Krista Marie Photography

Q: What are some misconceptions clients have about hiring a wedding planner? Can you debunk these for us?

I think most couples worry that hiring a wedding planner removes their own participation in planning and preparing for their wedding day, which can feel like a turn off for those with a strong sense of what they’d like and who worry about turning over control of that vision. I 100% shared this mindset when I was engaged so I can personally really relate. My own wedding day vision was very clear and I worried that hiring a planner would result in a cookie-cutter wedding that didn’t feel like me or my fiance (now husband). In reality, hiring a wedding planner actually allows for your wedding day vision to be elevated by a professional who knows how to incorporate trends in a cohesive and seamless way that is also representative of you.   

Q: Let’s talk trends. What are some you’re loving, and some you’re thinking it’s time to move on from?

Over the last 2 years I’ve loved watching and participating in the growing trend of micro weddings, which has kind of chicly replaced the concept of elopements and involves a ceremony and reception of under 50 people. Especially with COVID in mind, I highly encourage couples to strongly consider the size of their wedding guest list when planning their wedding. Weddings can be incredibly expensive and a budget is definitely impacted by the number of attendees. A wedding day design can be elevated by simple tweaks to the guest list and most couples are surprised to see how much of their budget is allocated to catering; depending on the size of their budget, this can reduce the budget for many other services. Budget aside, a micro wedding provides the most magical and romantic intimacy that none of my couples have ever regretted. Last thing about micro-weddings, another huge perk is how environmentally conscious they can be. Less guests hopefully also means less waste.

In terms of trends that need to go… Can we finally get rid of lengthy and complicated wedding hashtags?! No one seems to remember to use them! Also… signs in every corner! Don’t get me wrong, I love a beautiful sign and more so, I especially love when signage is strategically and minimally placed throughout a wedding.

Q: Where do you find your inspiration, outside of Pinterest?

Instagram! I follow a ton of Instagram pages that are focused on landscape photography, home decor, and fashion, which help me stay up to date with trends and also keep me inspired. Some of my favorite pages are:

• @kanyaiwana

• @sew_trill

• @tylersphotos

• @itayshaphoto

• @kilianschoenberger

• @airpixels

Marissa Kay Photography

Q: Can you give us a sneak peek into your design process?

The design process for me often starts in my head (which may seem obvious) and as I’m drafting up design boards I typically play music that reflects the inspiration behind the design plans. Music is such a vehicle for me to identify textures and colors that match a couple’s aesthetic and when I’m participating in the wedding day production I often play the same music to remain inspired. Way, way before I get to this point though, I love to meet and get to know my couples, understand their design visions and even spend time reviewing their Pinterest boards to get a sense of what they do and don’t like design wise. 

Q: In your opinion, what’s the most impactful part of a wedding day design?

Florals! I’m a sucker for gorgeous flowers in general but wow, florals make all of the difference!

Q: When discussing budget for event design, where do you encourage your clients to invest and prioritize their budget? 

A $5.00 wedding with a $5000.00 photographer will make your wedding seems like it was worth $5 million - I exaggerate but, the investment in a photographer will not disappoint.

Q: What are some mistakes clients make when thinking and planning their wedding day design? 

Integrating too many trendy details at once. I think it’s so important for a wedding to feel timeless and too many trendy details can lead to regrets when you look back on your wedding photos in 5, 10, 50 years! (Think 80’s and puffy sleeve dresses!)

Krista Marie Photography

Q: You’re also a mental health practitioner and recently graduated with a masters in social work. Congrats! How does your work in that space impact your work as a wedding designer? 

I am! My work as a mental health practitioner and as a wedding designer incorporate a lot of the same values: mainly, connection. Fundamentally, we as humans need to feel connected to one another and so much of my training around mental health allows me to be present with my clients and support their growth and development as a soon-to-be-married-couple as much as I’m supporting and facilitating their wedding day desires. My motto (which is super cheesy, I know) is that by taking care of the tough wedding work, I open up space for my couples to have a “marriage more beautiful than their wedding day.”

Q: Have you developed any new daily routines or rituals throughout shelter in place? 

Months 1 and 2 of shelter-in-place felt like I was manically incorporating a billion daily rituals to try and survive. I’m talking yoga in the mornings, a leisurely walk in the afternoon, zoom calls with any and everyone, playing a “work-from-home” playlist… the works! Now, I make sure I get fully dressed (even with shoes) in the mornings, and I try to do as many of the same things in the morning that I would’ve done if I were actually heading out for the day. I try to take care of as many household chores throughout the day so that when I’m officially “off work” I can just relax! It’s been working really well for me and these weeks are feeling enjoyable again!

Q: It’s no secret that wedding planning is stressful. Add a pandemic on top of that, and there can be serious impacts on mental health. What are some tips you have to help engaged couples cope? 

Prior to COVID I’ve always asked my couples to agree on 5 non-negotiables for their wedding day (in terms of needs, wants, desires) and then “let go” of every other expectation outside of those 5 non-negotiables. I stole this from the show Millionaire Matchmaker (haha!) but it’s been an incredibly useful strategy to help keep my couples grounded throughout the planning process. Especially now that we’re in such an unpredictable time, aligning priorities at the very beginning of wedding planning is necessary if couples are going to get through this time level headed. I also urge couples to consider premarital counseling if financially feasible (several providers are offering services at a sliding scale rate right now).

Q: What are some centering practices you recommend for couples when it comes to the chaotic day-of? 

Meditation! Am I sounding too much like a therapist right now?!

Also, a stress free wedding day includes surrounding yourself with a top notch getting-ready-crew who are going to help keep you level headed and excited. I think couples should take time to really consider this one!

Q: For couples hosting an intimate or smaller wedding, what’s a tip you have for creating thoughtful (and safe) experiences for them and their guests?

A couple that I recently worked with set up their “reception” dancing music to include music that was meant for couples. This eliminated the awkwardness of figuring out how to dance and social distance and was such a sweet moment that they shared with their guests during their short reception. The love was potent during this wedding!

Q: For anyone looking to step up their at-home entertaining game, what are your go-to at-home entertaining hacks?!

I am the most extra person when it comes to home entertaining and I really love a good theme (this drives my husband nuts). Anytime we host friends or family I find a theme that centers around our gathering and then research a game that’s in alignment with that theme. I find one or two food or drink items that are in alignment with the theme as well and then keep everything else simple. Am I doing the absolute most? Probably! Does it always make for a fun and memorable night? 100% yes.

Krista Marie Photography

Q: What does the next chapter of By Alysa Monét & Co. look like? Where do you see yourself and your business 5 years from now?

I’ve always had the dream of one day growing my business to incorporate services that are related to mental health and wellbeing. I’d love to one day be able to work with couples during their engagement as their wedding planner and designer, and then continue that work following their wedding day to offer marriage focused counseling and support. 

Thanks so much for joining, Alysa!

email: hello@byalysamonet.com

instagram: @byalysamonet

website: byalysamonet.com

5 Epic and Meaningful Ways to Elope in the SF Bay Area

Jenn Emerling Photography

I think many of us may agree that finding silver linings and creative ways to celebrate love during a pandemic is one of our collective go-to coping mechanisms these days. While wedding plans everywhere are being put on hold for the safety of couples, guests, and vendors, a few silver linings we’ve encountered include:

• love is not canceled

• you two are still perfect for each other 

• there are many things in life, big and small, still worth celebrating 

Couples are finding ways to celebrate each other in ways that fit their styles best -- whether it’s by simply honoring and celebrating their original wedding date, making things legal STAT with a tiny ceremony, or tapering plans to a smaller intimate gathering. 

After so much planning and anticipation, changing your vision to fit a new type of celebration can feel daunting. We’re finding that by tweaking our mindset, intimate gatherings create a whole slew of things to look forward to. They’re the perfect opportunity to finally seize those ideas that never made the cut in your original plans (read: that super amazing but slightly impractical outfit, that wild but totally your style HMU look, not to mention *actually* having time to enjoy your entire meal!?).  

Regardless of which route you choose, know that this celebration has so much potential to be special for you both. The memories made will surely be ones for the books. Trust us here, and read on as we talk to some of our favorite professionals in the Bay Area to bring you inspiration and how-to tips to adapt your Bay Area celebration in meaningful ways.

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Sarah Eichstedt Photography | Dani Padgett Weddings

1. ON YOUR STOOP 

Have you seen THIS stoop wedding in Brooklyn? What better place to exchange vows than the very spot you call home!? The locale makes it even easier for your friends and family to drive or parade by at a safe distance in celebration of your nuptials. 

PRO TIP: In the event your front stoop lacks curb appeal (hi renters like me!)...turn to flowers. Flowers can be a game changer here, and something the neighbors surely can’t complain about right? Work with your floral designer to create a ground-up or winding staircase installation that will not only create a beautiful backdrop, but will lead visitors and passersby to the very spot of your I Dos. Bonus: ask for loose flower petals and have your drive-by guests help you pull of a ‘toss’ which will make for beautiful (and memorable) photos.

PRO TIP: If you’re opting for professional photos (we hope so and promise it’ll be worth it!), keep in mind that the best time for frame-worthy portraits depends on the direction your house faces and will vary as the light changes throughout the day. Have your photographer scout out your spot ahead of time to help you plan the best time of day to capture beautiful (read: non-squinty) photos! -- Sarah Eichstedt Photography

PRO TIP: Share something sweet with visiting friends and neighbors. Packaged petite sweets like custom cupcake favors available for curbside pickup will have everyone circling back around the block for more. -- Samantha Mayfair Cakes

PRO TIP: Consider having a photo taken of each of your guests as they stop by your front porch, photo-booth style. These portraits will both serve as sweet thank you gift and an alternative wedding day guest book! -- Sarah Eichstedt Photography

Jenn Emerling Photography

2 - ON YOUR ROOFTOP

There’s no shortage of epic rooftops in San Francisco. If you’re able to ~safely~ access yours, you can incorporate fresh air and city views into your at-home celebration. Have your friends and neighbors on neighboring rooftops ready to cheer and pop champagne as you say I Do.

PRO TIP: Ask your floral designer to create a tablescape of varied flower arrangements to complement your wedding color palette, for pickup or no-contact dropoff on the big day. Afterward, place the flowers throughout your home to keep the beauty going in the days to come. Or, go big with an arch, arbor, or ground-up installation that complements the vista and serves as a memorable photo opp.

PRO TIP: A tiny ceremony shouldn’t preclude you from sealing the deal with a slice of something sweet. Work with your baker to order a miniature version of your wedding cake. Then maybe take it a step further and add in some wrapped treats such as cupcakes, slices of cake, or mini cakes, to be delivered to your surrounding neighbors. Can you imagine everyone looking on from their own rooftops as you all cut the cake together? -- Samantha Mayfair Cakes 

PRO TIP: Call in the experts! A professional photographer for your rooftop wedding will have the right equipment and lenses to be able to photograph you safely from a distance while still capturing intimate moments and close-up details. -- Sarah Eichstedt Photography

Sarah Eichstedt Photography

3- SEASIDE

Sunnier days are ahead and there’s no time like the present to get outside to exchange your vows. Following your nuptials, have a seat and enjoy a private picnic just the two of you, with friends and family stopping by for a celebratory bonfire and s’mores. 

PRO TIP: Tap your caterer to see if they are offering to-go dinners for their couples. Surf & turf anyone?! If that’s not an option, pick your favorite local date night spot and Postmates your favorite dishes. -- Hitched by Haley Planning

PRO TIP: Reach out to a trusted floral designer and ask them for their recommendations. We suggest a ground-up floral installation in the shape of a crescent to serve as your altar or ceremony backdrop. Not only can it withstand the ocean breeze, but it will create a photo opp ~moment~. Better yet, ask that your designer incorporate native and seasonal elements that will perfectly complement the seaside landscape. 

PRO TIP: We recommend doing some research to find the best beach, or better yet, tap your photographer to scout locations ahead of time. The perfect spot will feel secluded yet easily accessible (especially when considering older family members) and have some tall trees nearby helpful for blocking unexpected wind. Since some beaches can get very windy around sunset, check the weather app to see what the wind mileage will be that day. Usually anything above 15-20mph will be uncomfortable. -- Monica Lam Photo 

Jes Workman Fine Art Photography

4. UNDER THE REDWOODS

With a minimized guest list, take advantage of peace and quiet and go the extra steps into nature. Exchanging your vows underneath the trees will do just that. Just be sure to check your local park to make sure the park is open!

PRO TIP: Tap your wedding DJ for a custom playlist that you can use for a silent disco under the trees. If you have friends and family who couldn’t make it, send them that playlist or invite them to join in remotely from their homes! -- Hitched by Haley Planning

PRO TIP: We trust this is going to be a day that you, your loved ones, maybe even your future children, and your grandchildren will look back on for years to come. Hiring a professional photographer will allow you to capture the people, moments, and details that matter the most! -- Sarah Eichstedt Photography

PRO TIP: For flowers, try something you weren’t considering before. Ask your floral designer for ideas for ‘wearables’ such as a fun floral headpiece, floral scrunchie, or floral tattoo. These are all items that won’t break the bank, but will make a statement. Many florists can accommodate a hassle-free dropoff or pickup for small orders.

PRO TIP: A smaller celebration gives you lots of opportunity to get extra creative with your vision for the day. If you need ideas, lean on your vendors! Be sure to communicate your ideas and share your pinterest boards with your vendors so they can run with it. -- Monica Lam Photo 

Jamie Street Photography

5. IN YOUR BACKYARD 

If you have one, chances are your backyard is looking better than ever thanks to DIY home projects and gardening while staying at home. Reap the benefits of your hard work and host an intimate celebration, for just the two of you or with any quarantine buddies. Stir up your signature cocktail, cue your wedding playlist, and dance that first dance like nobody’s watching. Pssst: lighting is everything! Add string lights and candlelight for a boost of intimate ambiance.

PRO TIP: Work with your wedding florist to create something that conjures up your original wedding vision, such as a ground-up floral installation surrounding your sweetheart table or a cozy tablescape with mixed flower arrangements or a bountiful fresh garland. 

PRO TIP: Tap whoever was going to give a speech at your wedding to share a brief toast, either in-person or remotely via Zoom. -- Hitched by Haley Planning

PRO TIP: A dessert station is perfect for maintaining proper distance among attending guests. To make the dessert station that much more personal to you and your spruced-up garden, consider signature sugar flowers that coordinate with the flowers growing in your yard or neighborhood. -- Samantha Mayfair Cakes 

Monica Lam Photo | Sarah Eichstedt Photography

SOME PARTING ADVICE…

We know that upending your plans can initially feel daunting, uncertain, and just downright sucky. But you have a community around you that is here to support you and whatever your visions may now be. As you navigate this, here are some parting words from professionals in the Bay Area community. 

Know that despite a smaller guest list, there’s no need to sacrifice big ideas. An elopement may be small in size, but you can make it as big and bold as you’d like. Remember to be your most romantic, adventurous, and silliest selves on your special day, and the memories will surely last a lifetime. -- Monica Lam Photo 

At the heart of what we do is honor life’s most special moments. The challenges we’re facing has realigned our hearts and perspective on just how sweet the simple things are. While we encourage all of our clients to take all the time they need to grieve their original wedding date and take a break from planning, we love seeing you get back to daydreaming about your special day. Because at the end of the day, you still get to marry the love of your life and you still deserve that dream-worthy wedding. LOVE STILL WINS. -- Hitched by Haley Planning

Look inward and really think about what’s most important to the both of you and what will make you happiest and start there! Reach out to your vendors and see how they might be able to make your vision work -- whether that’s an epic floral installation on your front yard, an over the top outfit, a summer dress and makeup free look, or something in between; you’ll never regret listening to your heart instead of just doing what’s trendy. -- Sarah Eichstedt Photography

And a note from me: Your celebration is *meant to be*. Regardless of date, time, location, and guest count. My goal is to make it extra special for you, and support you along the planning process. Contact us here to chat all-things elopements and small celebrations. If you’re in need of a little inspiration, head to my Pinterest page here for more ideas!

Thank you to these helpful vendor contributors! Each offer a unique collection of elopement services and we can’t wait to see the magic they create.

Floral Design: Anastasia Andenmatten (website / instagram)

Cake Artist: Samantha Mayfair Cakes (website / instagram)

Planning: Hitched by Haley (website / instagram)

Photography: Monica Lam (website / instagram)

Photography: Sarah Eichstedt (website / instagram)

Note: As government-mandated guidelines vary state by state and change often, be sure to follow your state guidelines and do what feels safe for you, your guests, and your vendors. For more up-to-date guidelines, check the CDC as well as your state’s website.