Old-world, French wedding inspiration at Sunstone Vineyards & Winery - California

I recently had the wonderful opportunity to work alongside some incredible wedding industry talent and photograph an amazing editorial at one of the most famous venues in California, Sunstone Vineyards and Winery! Brides, I hope this shoot gives you some wonderful French inspiration for your wedding!

Check out the full feature of this film and digital shoot on Wedding Chicks!

An air of French romance, feminine and elaborate details, and lux designers all contributed to making this French wedding inspirational shoot at the renowned Sunstone Winery in Santa Ynez, California, one for the books. Since Sunstone Winery is believed to be the oldest vineyard in Santa Barbara County, and with its French limestone and artifacts imported from the Marseille and Provence regions of France, it was the perfect setting for our old-world, French-inspired shoot! 

Krystel of Couture Events thoughtfully planned out every single detail of this romantic shoot from the delicate hand jewelry worn by the bride, to the native fruits accenting the lush tablescape, which included grapes, figs, and other citrus fruits. The soft pink-hued dahlias and several shades of nude roses by La Fleur Dujour made the air thick with a sweet summer smell. An intricate, Dijon mustard and green-tinted floral headpiece design lent a certain je ne sais quoi-feel to the exquisite bridal look and with a ceremony arch overflowing with hydrangeas, astilbe, and larkspur that overlooked the Santa Ynez River valley, it truly felt like we were transported to a French countryside chateau!

The bride donned a Carol Hannah Bridal gown with feminine and fun details such as the semi-sheer asymmetrical neckline and oversized bow. We paired the look with gem-detailed Bella Belle shoes and a romantic braided hairstyle. For the groom, a classic feel was perfected by incorporating a soft-colored velvet bowtie and navy vested suit by Stitch and Tie. An invitation suite crafted by the insanely talented In Loft Calligraphy and signage by Delovely Details, all styled by Krystel, provided the picture-perfect amount of French charm with golden hues and accents, a handmade blush leather vow book, and Monet-inspired watercolor place cards.

This shoot truly felt like it was straight out of a fairytale and all of the vendors worked so incredibly hard to create a fresh perspective with a French twist! With details like these, it’s not hard to bring France a little closer to home. Thank you to everyone involved who helped this shoot be a success!