Erika and Joseph first met in high school (Erika even told her mom about how special Joe was the first day they met)! They maintained a long-distance relationship between their colleges in New Orleans and Boston. After a romantic weekend proposal on the central California coast, the couple made it official at their picturesque Stanly Ranch wedding. Stanly Ranch is the newest Auberge Resort Collection property, and is truly a dream for any Napa wedding photographer. I absolutely loved it there!
Joe decided to pop the question a month after Erika took the California bar exam to become an attorney. Even though she knew a proposal was coming, it was so special to Erika that Joe made the effort to plan a surprise at the Ventana Inn in Big Sur. He even invited their closest family and friends to celebrate with them a couple days later at an intimate engagement party!
The wedding weekend
Erika and Joe’s wedding weekend in gorgeous California wine country kicked off with a welcome dinner and cocktails on Friday night at Celadon in downtown Napa. The wedding day was perfectly curated by Array Creative Design — think modern elegance meets natural beauty. The vibes? Totally timeless, with a minimalist design and fresh green and white palette.
The bride chose a chic, sophisticated A-line gown from Lela Rose and the groom kept it classy in a black tuxedo. The incredible band Hip Service kept the dance floor packed all night long. Even the weather was delightful — a perfect June day in Northern California! It was such an honor to be Erika and Joe’s Napa wedding photographer for their stunning Stanly Ranch wedding.
Wedding planner: Array Creative Design
Floral design: Parker & Posies
Venue: Stanly Ranch
Stationery: Velvet & Gold
Hair & makeup: Sherrie Long
Wedding dress: Lela Rose
Entertainment: Hip Service
Rentals: Hensley Event Resources
Photo booth: MirMir
Rehearsal dinner: Celadon