Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa is such a beautiful and historic statement, very little is required to ensure that it looks great. I have “Mission schpeel” that I share with my brides at our consultation – basically, let the Mission carry it’s own weight. The paintings on the walls, the simplicity of the pews, the amazing iron lighting fixtures, the old adobe and tile – it all has it’s own wonderful story. Sometimes, we’ll attach some simple bouquets to the pews, but we really like to save your decorating budget for the celebration at the reception.
Dana, a good friend of one of my all time favorite brides from 2005, brought some great tear sheets and ideas to our consultation appointment. We developed a palette of beautifully simple and elegant blooms in shades of white, green and brown. In keeping with the Mission and the rustic California feel, we decided on elements from our Wrought Iron collection for the reception at Robert Hall Winery. Our wrought iron candelabras lit the Paso Robles evening with soft candle light. Curly willow was wrapped around them to add some funky natural elements and stunning green cymbidium orchids were tucked in to the willow to add some color. The simplicity of this look was really striking. The other version of the centerpieces incorporated our wrought iron stands with hand blown glass bowls. Each one featured three fragrant gardenias floating in it. Super simple – but classic. The subtle fragrance immediately sets the tone for your guests to have a great time. The linens were a khaki shade of taupe and chartreuse napkins brought more of Dana’s favorite color to the table with a menu card tucked in the fold at each place setting. Our personalized candy bar provided a little sugar for guests to enjoy through out the evening. To complete the ambiance at the winery, perimeter up-lighting maximized the winery’s architecture while providing an incredible back drop for the party.
Melissa at Kramer Entertainment DJs and Event Lighting kept the dance floor full and moving. The incredible lighting was also provided by Kramer Entertainment DJs and Event Lighting. The dinner was catered by my soul sista, Jennie Sturgeon over at Trumpet Vine Catering and was beautifully presented, including my favorite signature appetizer – mission fig & prosciutto torte. The night was topped off with milk and home made donuts for the road, also provided by Jennie.
Many thanks to the incredibly talented Amy Wellenkamp at Amy Wellenkamp Photography for sharing her awesome photos with us. She is truly and artist!
