Just over two years ago, I was married to my love in a barn. It was the happiest day of my life. Needless to say, when I get to spend all morning, afternoon, or week with a beautiful batch of farm nuptials, I start out the day a little sentimental. This was exactly the case when I opened up this California wedding Jake Odening captured and sent our way. I was enamored by the beautiful bride, the apparent style in not just the girls, but also the boys, and the fantastic florals (I carried sunflowers on my big day too) from panacea event floral design. I fell for that gorgeous old barn. I couldn’t tear myself away from the mason jar chandeliers. I was in love. And after a peek at the gallery, I’m betting you’ll be just as head over heels as I am.
Did I tell you or what? Click here for the highlight film from Bryan Mclain.
The proposal was an entire day consisting of all of our first couple of dates. We grabbed coffee, hiked and ended at the beach where we had the “talk” of I like you, you like me, a little over a year ago. We were sitting around a fire when Garrett pulled out an old wooden jewelry box and asked me to open it. Letters. 26 secret, folded letters and one tied in red ribbon, all which he had written throughout the first year of our relationship was in the box. After reading the 25th letter, I opened the one with the red ribbon. This was the first letter he had written to me, saying, “If you are reading this then you know what is about to happen. I don’t know when will this be, but Christine Irish Huffman I have a question for you…”. Before I knew it, he was down on one knee asking for my hand and with tears, laughter and joy, I said yes!
Garrett and I were inspired to have a folk themed wedding. We wanted a venue with a rustic and elegant feel as well as an intimate and vintage setting and the Dana-Powers House was it! The shabby chic decor of the garden and the barn fit perfectly for our ceremony and reception. Since our wedding was in June, we wanted vibrant, cheery and fun colors that reflected us and our theme. Panacea flowers did a phenomenal job in making our vision come alive with Sunflowers, Billy Balls and English Garden Roses, making the colors just pop.
Laughs, love and joy truly filled the entire day! It was our desire for the ceremony to reflect the importance of our family, faith and love for one another. To fulfill this we incorporated a time of worship through music for guests to participate in, communion and added personal touches to reflect our personalities. After the ceremony, Garrett and I did a receiving line welcoming and thanking every guest for making the trip to celebrate with us. From the welcome beverage station (strawberries with whip cream and agua fresca) to the plentiful portions of the family style main course, Trumpet Vine Catering left everyone’s taste buds stunned. After heart felt toasts with many tears, the dance party began. Before I knew it, my dad was on the floor attempting to do the worm…great times! During dancing, we set-up an old fashion candy bar. Guests took their custom stamped goodie bags and filled them up to the brim for the rest of the night and for the ride home. At sunset, we went into the adjacent fields and took pictures, giving us some time to laugh and share some of our favorite moments of the day.
One of the most memorable moments of the day was saying our vows. Garrett spoke with such passion, conviction and love, placing me in a state of thankfulness to be his best friend and wife. Our love grew leaps and bounds that day and it continues to everyday in all different ways. We were so thankful for our friends and family who showed us great support, love and joy throughout the entire wedding day! We were truly blessed.
Photography: Jake Odening / Cinematography: Bryan Mclain / Floral Design: Panacea Floral Designs / Event Location: Dana-Powers House / Invitation Designer: Necia Odening, Umbrella Tree Design / Cake: The Cakery / Wedding Gown Designer: Blue by Enzoani / Bridesmaid’s Dress Designer: Forever 21 / Hairstylist: Claire Shearer