A California Wedding Inspired by the Forest
Newlyweds Maryanne and Matt wanted a wedding that showcased the beauty of Southern California, and that’s precisely what they got with this woodland celebration put together by Sweet Emilia Jane and The Little Branch. The day kicked off with a tree-covered ceremony in the woods with sunlight peeking through, and culminated with a family-style dinner under bistro lights — all captured by Martina Micko Photography!
From the bride, Maryanne: We really wanted a wedding that showcased the natural beauty of Southern California. We’re very fond of our home state and we really tried to let that love shine through in all the details. We would describe the look of our wedding as being as natural, romantic, whimsical and formal. Our theme was a woodsy, romantic outdoor California winter wedding. Our color scheme involved lots of natural greenery with accents of mauve and blush. The whole wedding party was decked in gray hues. Plus, our entire wedding menu was completely vegan! Our caterer worked with us to create a 100% plant based menu including a crostini bar. We also carefully selected local beer and wine from the Malibu / Agoura Hills region!
Bouquet recipe: A masterpiece that included roses, privet, eucalyptus and pine, plus more.
We had many DIY items featured at our wedding. I stained and burned each guest’s initials into a wooden California shaped place card. Matt hand selected the wood from a local arborist that became the chargers on the dinner table (after careful sanding and staining). Also our guests received gift bags with carefully selected locally produced items like local honey sticks, homemade granola and tea from a local tea shop.
Any advice for couples planning their weddings now? Our friendly advice for all those on the wedding planning journey is to do your research and spend time vetting your vendors…they can truly make or break the experience. We are so grateful to the vendors on our big day. They filled our day with sense of peace /calm and each of them are so talented. Above all else, make sure to have moments that are just for you and your groom – whether its a first look, a long first dance, stolen glances or a sweetheart table just for the two of you. We found moments like those to be the most memorable.
You’ll definitely want to catch the wedding film from Christian and Reinna:
Wedding Music:
Bride’s Processional: “Loving Wings,” Dave Matthews Band (played by bride’s brother Lutz Mueller)
Recessional: “Two Step,” Dave Matthews Band
First Dance: “Dance Me to the End of Love,” The Civil Wars