Alright guys—this one is desert-boho at its finest! Monica and David’s wedding took place in the bride’s parents’ backyard—a boutique San Bernadino vineyard that was planted by the family. With home grown wine and teepee vibes, the day is filled with artistic family-created details like more than 200 tie-dyed napkins and 250 hand-made pinchpots. Florals by Fleuris Flower Studio are show-stopping including Monica’s larger-than-life floral crown and the overall mood is totally joyful and captured perfectly by Mandilynn Photography.
What made the wedding special and unique?
Location–being able to get married in literally my parents backyard which is a boutique vineyard that we planted together as a family. Home grown wine. Teepee vibes.
Tell us about the gown and where/how you found it!
I was recommended to a local boutique that a few of my girlfriends had gotten their dresses at. Deborah’s bridal in Upland. They were simply amazing to work with. I didn’t want the typical dress with layers of tulle. I knew I wanted a fitted long sleeve lace gown but when I said that out loud I’m sure people envisioned 80’s style with the Rambo headband. I wanted classy with a killer back. We were in a pinch because I went in late December and the wedding was less than 4 months away. I went with Stella York and had to pay a rush fee to have it made because it was coming from Australia. Time is money! I was told that I wouldn’t know until late January/ early February if I would be guaranteed the dress because of the short time frame. I remember trying on the sample size and busting out with a dance move to make sure I could boogie on the big day.
What were some touches added to make the wedding personal?
My gem of a mom and her artistic abilities. She handmade over 250 ceramic pinch pots that were later filled with my private stash of succulents and given to our guests. We also tie-dyed over 200 napkins, which added pops of flair. The cake was my Great Aunt Carol’s recipe for her southern pound cake. The flower arrangements had an assortment of feathers from our peacocks. The succulents in my bouquet and David’s boutonniere were planted after the wedding as a keepsake. Our glasses were cut wine bottles with hand etched logos. We also served the family reserve (Red Fern Blend) wine with custom labels #davidamonicaletspolka. Oh and pizza!! 5 different varieties of gourmet stone oven pizza. It was everything.
What was the most memorable part of the day?
The joy. It sounds corny but David and I were both ecstatic. We were so happy to celebrate our love with each other and amongst our closest friends and family. The day was to celebrate our union.
Tell us how you met and became engaged.
We met at a barbecue at my friends house. He spilled wine all over my friend’s carpet and turned bright red. It was hilarious and I teased him for months. He’s a good sport.
The night of our engagement we were planning to have dinner at the lodge in Lake Arrowhead for our 6 month anniversary. He met me at the bottom of the hill and we drove up together in his truck. He looked clammy and nervous. I just thought maybe he needed to eat! We arrived at the little lodge and headed towards a gazebo. I looked over and saw a couple sitting in candlelight at a little table with a bottle of champagne. David wanted to keep walking towards them and I was like “no way we are crashing their romantic dinner!” He insisted. I was super awkward. He begins with a speech which I don’t remember but it was sweet and all of a sudden gets down on one knee and asks if I will marry him. He opens up a box with 3 rings. And I’m shocked and answered with “absolutely!!!”
Photography: Mandilynn Photography // Flowers: Fleuris Flower Studio // Stationery: The Pastel Fox // Venue: Stomping Ground Vineyard, Steve and Peggy Avila // Wedding Dress: Stella York, Essence of Australia // Shoes: Free People // Hair and Makeup: Bride // Bridesmaids Dress: For Love and Lemons // Caterer: Urban Pie // Cake: Nikki’s Custom Cakes // Chairs: An Elegant Affair // Videographer: Jay Williams Photography // DJ: Paid 2 Party