A Romantic Pink-and-Taupe Outdoor Wedding in California

Lauren and Darrin met the old-fashioned way—at a bar. The San Francisco-based couple dated for a little more than two years, and went on more than a handful of dates in California’s wine country during that time. To celebrate their romance and love of the nearby scenery, they tied the knot on June 23, 2012, with an intimate celebration in Calistoga.

The laid-back but classy setting of Solage Calistoga resort was an ideal match for the couple’s personalities and wedding style. The modern and elegant affair celebrated the pair’s love of California wine country by keeping views of the mountains and nearby vineyards close at hand.

Darrin donned a Theory suit and Lauren wore a lace Anna Maier Ulla-Maija dress, which she accessorized with Jimmy Choo shoes, rose-gold Ippolita earrings, and a bracelet from Darrin.

The bride’s sister and mother coordinated their soft nude dresses with the bride’s gown.

Danielle Rowe of Brown Paper Design created Lauren’s clutch of café au lait dahlias, dusty miller, peonies, and garden roses.

A pop of color and texture adorned Darrin’s lapel, thanks to a small bundle of thistle, pussy willow and wild heather, tied with gray grosgrain ribbon.

The couple opted to see each other before walking down the aisle. During this time, Jesse Leake took portraits so they could keep the cocktail hour photo session short and maximize their time with their guests.

Darrin and Lauren also took a family portrait with Darrin’s daughter, Olivia, who served as flower girl.

A backdrop of blush-toned silk created the perfect setting for the service. Peonies, gardenias, and various flower petals were scattered along the aisle so the scent of gardenia would float through the air as Lauren approached the altar.

A wreath of lavender was used instead of a ring pillow.

As the bride walked down the aisle on the arm of her father, her sister sang “Come Away With Me” by Norah Jones. After the ceremony, the couple recessed to “Feel So Close” by Calvin Harris. “The lyrics meant a lot to us and set the tone for the party to come,” said Lauren

“In order to marry me you have to share a cigar or two with my father,” Lauren said. Darrin wasn't much of a cigar guy until he met Lauren’s dad. Now, he has a small collection of his own. That pastime was enjoyed by all, thanks to a stash set out for guests.

Seating areas were kept simple, with spare flower arrangements and glowing candles.

Every room at the resort comes with its own beach cruiser. Lauren and Darrin’s license plate was switched out for a more fitting option. The duo rode the bikes the entire weekend.

A living chandelier was made of air plants, succulents, carnations, and Juliet roses. It was filled in with several varieties of moss to create more depth and texture and hung from the ceiling of the reception space.

Fifty-four of the couple’s nearest and dearest joined them for dinner, at tables joined together to create the feeling of an intimate gathering.

Opalescent chargers paired with wood farm tables created an organic-yet-refined look, while a double-layered linen runner with raw edged organza added softness. Mini succulents matched the menus, which were designed by Olive-Route.

The local cuisine included an heirloom tomato salad with burrata, a mushroom soup, and the chef’s special fried chicken. Each of the courses was paired with a different type of the couple’s favorite Hope and Grace wines: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir.

Glass vases were filled with Garden roses, rosemary, cafe au lait dahlias, peonies, and Juliet roses.

An heirloom apple tree with exposed roots was the focal point of a round table set between the areas used for dinner and for dancing.

Otis Redding’s “That’s How Strong My Love Is” played as the newlyweds took to the dance floor.

Desserts were kept small and delicious, so guests could easily pick up a few different items, such as strawberry shortcakes.

Photography: Jesse Leake

Location and Catering: Solage Calistoga

Event Planning: Alison Events

Flowers: Danielle Rowe of Brown Paper Design

Stationery: Olive-Route

Music: Ever Music

Rentals: Classic Party Rentals

Linens: La Tavola

Hair and Makeup: Teri Ann Kemnitz of The Cutlery

Transportation: California Wine Tours

Lighting: Refraction

Engagement Ring and Wedding Band: JB Star from Shreve & Co.