What beats a black-tie wedding on New Year’s Eve? A SURPRISE black-tie wedding on New Year’s Eve! Lindsey and Zach invited 40 of their closest family and friends to their Foxen Canyon Ranch wedding, but here’s the twist: everyone thought they were arriving at an engagement party.
New Year’s Eve surprise vows
Lindsey and Zach carefully crafted a plan to keep the real celebration under wraps, sending guests a pre-recorded announcement revealing the truth only while they were en route to the venue via shuttle. Only the videographers, wedding planner, and I (plus the rest of the vendor team, of course) were in on the secret!
Imagine the shock, excitement, and joy as loved ones realized they were not just there to toast an engagement, but to witness their wedding ceremony. It was VERY fun to witness as they disembarked the shuttles upon arrival.



























A picturesque Foxen Canyon Ranch wedding
Foxen Canyon Ranch, with its rustic beauty and vineyard views, was the perfect backdrop for the evening. Guests were welcomed with hot apple cider and cozy blankets gathered around a fire pit. The scene set such a warm and inviting tone for the night ahead. The intimate ceremony officiated by Dr. Jon Ireland, unfolded just as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting golden light over the rolling hills and vineyards. Lindsey and Zach’s closest friends and family, dressed in black tie as instructed, shared in the surprise. The emotion was palpable as vows were exchanged in this beautiful, unexpected moment.
This surprise wedding was more than just a celebration of love; it was a triumphant, joyful punctuation mark at the end of an imperfect year (one that brought everyone together in a way no one could have anticipated: YIKES, 2020). The element of surprise added an extra layer of magic and intimacy, turning what might have been a typical party into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The night was filled with laughter and happy tears, and the dance floor was packed as the clock approached midnight.
The couple’s decision to keep the wedding small and under wraps allowed them to fully savor the day surrounded by those who matter most. And while this marked the official start of their marriage, Lindsey and Zach were already planning to celebrate again, this time with a big anniversary bash in Mexico.
For now, enjoy a glimpse into their surprise Foxen Canyon Ranch wedding. It was a wonderful night full of love and surprises that no one in attendance would soon forget.
Don’t miss Lindsey and Zach’s encore wedding celebration in Tequila, Mexico!
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Design + planning: Magnolia Event Design
Event management: Array Creative Design
Floral design: Knot Just Flowers
Venue: Foxen Canyon Ranch
Videography: I Heart Creative
Catering: Field to Table
Bartending: Simply Cocktails
Stationery: Little Postage House
Hair + makeup: TEAM Hair + Makeup
Wedding dress: Pronovias from NWLA Bridal
Engagement ring: Miss Diamond Ring
Rentals: Bright Event Rentals, Bella Vista Designs, BBJ Linens
Officiant: Dr. Jon Ireland