California Winter Glitter Photo Shoot from Mirelle Carmichael

There is something to be said for a white winter. A dusting of snow and hot apple cider in hand are a few December must haves in our book. But even if you’re planning a Winter wedding in a much warmer climate this shoot is a poster child for incorporating cozy details into your affair; especially if you’re currently sporting sunnies and a California tan (jealous!). Details like glittering paper goods and a spiked Hot Chocolate bar crafted by Captivating Events by Megan mixed with pine cones and pretty greenery by Sprigs Floral Designs and the loveliest images by Mirelle Carmichael Photography. See so much more right here.

From Mirelle Carmichael PhotographyAs we were creating a romantic “California” winter styled shoot, our creative team immediately focused on glitter, something that we perceive as Coastal California’s version of snow! Set at the gorgeous Flying Caballos Guest Ranch in San Luis Obispo, we set up a reception table featuring a long arrangement of florals surrounded by mini floral groupings, custom letterpress menus, vintage books, clocks and bottles. A mouth-watering display of cool-weather food was presented among the vintage place settings and mismatched gold glassware. An inspirational hot chocolate bar on a wooden beverage cart was set up, with ‘Winter Warmer’ and ‘Spiked Hot Chocolate’ in ceramic dispensers, and a glitter bunting sign hanging above it that read ‘Baby It’s Cold Outside’. Inside the ranch’s main house a dessert table was set featuring holiday goodies that were surrounded by custom letterpress label cards, flowers, vintage accents, and twinkle lights. Our inspirational ceremony site was set with a huppah overlooking the expansive field behind the ranch house, wrapped in wheat chiffon and a muted blue silk. Cheryl Tivar created mason jars wrapped in twine and vintage lace and held candles, which hung from the chairs and were filled with epsom salt to mimic snow. A flurry of white rose petals were scattered down the aisle. The beautiful bride wore a ruffled Martina Liana gown and the photographer’s vintage coat when the weather got chilly!

The invitations, menus, and paper goods are on Holyoke 140# card stock with gold metallic ink. They were printed on a Chandler & Price 12 x 18 platen press. The Bridal Bouquet is a collection of white dahlias, viburnum, lisianthus, seeded eucalyptus, pepperberry, scabiosa pods, patience garden roses, brunia, dusty miller, freesia and oleysa spray roses, and a tick of baby pine cones with gold glitter used for accent along with a red swarovski crystal bow. It was hand-wrapped with a taupe satin ribbon with a white lace overlay. 

Photography: Mirelle Carmichael Photography / Venue: Flying Caballos Guest Ranch in San Luis Obispo, California / Styling: Captivating Events by Megan / Floral Design: Erin McClellan of Sprigs Floral Designs / Catering: Trumpet Vine Catering / Cake: Cakes by Judy / Vintage Rentals: Embellish Vintage Rentals / Reception Table and Chiavarri Chair Rentals: Got You Cover’D Rentals /  Stationery: Alissa Bell Press / Wedding Dress: Martina Liana via Down the Aisle / Bride’s Jewelry: Down the Aisle / Hair + Makeup: Jessi Skipton Campbell