What is your favorite wedding day memory?

Our wedding day was one big, beautiful blur! I can’t put into words just how much love we were overwhelmed with that day. My favorite part of the wedding was definitely the ceremony. It was a gorgeous, sunny afternoon. We were nestled among arching fir trees and towering redwoods, with the still lake as our backdrop. Surrounded by our family and closest friends, we felt so much love in the air in such a beautiful, intimate space. As we exchanged our vows, I welled up with an incredible amount of emotion I had never felt before. It was perfect. Truly a surreal experience I’ll never forget.

What did you DIY for your wedding?

Almost everything! Our good friends took our photo for the save-the-date, which my brother-in-law then designed. I painted and designed the invitations, table and escort cards {which also doubled as favors}. Instead of table numbers, we used animals native to California as an homage to our beloved home. I hand-lettered the invitation envelopes and signs. I had a custom rubber stamp made to hand-stamp the kraft tag for the invites, as well as the muslin bags for lavender {tossed after the ceremony}. I scoured the internet and thrift shops for the lanterns, candles, and vases to create a pieced together, yet cohesive, DIY look. My sister arranged the nostalgic photo display and our Polaroid station was put together with a guestbook from Etsy and rented camera. None of it could have been accomplished without the help of family and friends!

Any advice for brides currently in the planning process?

Wedding planning can be a stressful time. My best advice would be to start planning early so you can enjoy the process and really let your personalities shine through personal touches. If anything doesn’t feel right or feels unnatural, don’t do it. Don’t let wedding planning come between you and your fiance. The moment tensions arise, take a breath and remember why you’re getting married in the first place. Although you might get swept up in the small details of the wedding itself, your relationship is most important! Most importantly, savor every moment of your day. It goes by in a flash! -Keidi, the Bride

Event Credits

Photography: From SF With Love // Venue: Leonard Lake Reserve // Wedding Planner + Invitations: The Bride // Florist: Home Sweet Flowers // Catering + Desserts: Wine Country Artisans Catering // DJ: All Ears DJ // Videographer: The FRVR // Rentals: Encore Events Rentals // Engagement Ring: Brilliant Earth // Bride's Attire: Watters // Bride's Jewelry: Samantha Wills // Bride's Shoes: Steve Madden // Hair + Make-Up: Ink Hair Salon // Groom + Groomsmen's Attire: Men's Warehouse // Guestbook: Paper Peach Shop // K+G Succulent Planters: Revival Wood Art // Invitation Printing: H&H Imaging // Table + Escort Card Printing: Autumn Express