A couple very mindful of their cultural and religious traditions – AND of family tradition! They got married in exactly the same spot where the bride’s parents had tied the knot, 35 years prior. Only difference: this time the weather was much better!
The “spot” was Thomas Fogarty Winery, an elegant event venue perched on a ridge high above Silicon Valley, with endless views to the San Francisco skyline, and surrounded by producing vineyards – the wines from these vineyards were, of course, served at the celebration! But I am getting ahead of myself…
After a year of planning with my company, A Day Like No Other, the big day had finally arrived.
After hair and makeup styling at her parents’ home, Sarah was driven to Fogarty Winery where she would dress up and present herself to her future husband officially for the first time – a “First Look.”
The quintessential mother-daughter moment with the mother preparing her daughter for getting married.
Florist Janelle Jacky-Litt of Green Petal Designs provided Sarah with her bridal bouquet…
… in elegant white-on-white, textured and with a feminine softness – and there she is in all her finery!
Immediately after their First Look on a balcony overlooking the vineyards and the valley, Sarah and Justin read their personal vows to each other – a very tender and unforgettable moment for both of them.
While both were taking lots and lots of photos with photographer extraordinaire Gavin Farrington and his assistant Paula, all the vendor teams were hard at work with preparations. And regarding photos: for now, all we have are my cellphone snapshots – just wait until you see the professional photos!!
The ceremony area was set up with chairs, a chuppah and lavish floral decor (by Green Petal Designs),
and tables were set in pretty ivory, green and gold for the alfresco dinner in the Pavilion.
My assistant Quan and I set up the elegant WELCOME sign that the artistically gifted bride had created herself, along with all other wedding stationery; and there were a myriad of other details to take care of…
DJ .Zhaldee of Entourage Events was setting up sound systems, Rabbi Debbie Pine arrived for the ceremony, and violinist Joyce Lee got settled to accompany this ceremony with classical tunes.
Guests arrived via shuttle buses (from Corinthian Ground Transportation), and soon we were ready for the long-anticipated, big moment. Here comes the bride!
After a traditional Jewish ceremony…
… Sarah and Justin broke a glass, also per tradition, and were declared “husband and wife.”
Just married!! And soooo happy…
Next? More photos, of course – and cocktails and hors d’oeuvres (by Culinary Eye Catering) …
… for the guests who were asked to write their well-wishes and messages for the newlyweds on vintage travel postcards, to be gathered into a keepsake album.
“Travel” was a big theme at this wedding as this is the couple’s shared passion – they got engaged in Kenya, for starters! And that’s why tables were named after some of their favorite destinations, “Nairobi” rubbing shoulders with “San Francisco…” and “Cancun” with “Tahoe!”
Guests found their assigned tables on a mirrored seating chart…
Two super-busy young professionals, living out of state, planning an elaborate wedding at Nestldown Estate just outside Silicon Valley – it’s clear they needed assistance! I was so honored that they chose my company, A Day Like No Other, to help with the planning and design, and the bride’s parents took over the tasks of site visits and tastings that had to be done in-person. After a year of planning and designing, everything finally came together beautifully under blue skies and a warming May sunshine.
For Sally and her friends, her sister, mother and mother-in-law, the day began at the elegant Hotel Los Gatos…
… where they all received beauty services by Felicia Wei and assistants of Bun Bun Bridal Lab – and look how gorgeous the results were! Photographer Gavin Farrington with second shooter Paula captured the whole day from start to finish – however, for the time being, all we have to show are my cellphone shots. Just wait until you see the professional photos!
At Nestldown, meanwhile, several vendor teams (including myself and my associate Stephanie Hui) were hard at work to get everything ready for the celebration; Ephraim of Apis Florals and his crew put up gorgeous floral arrangements…
…. a gilded circular arch, decorated with a profusion of flowers, and a sofreh-aghd, the traditional Persian wedding spread (the bride is of Persian heritage), in the “Chapel,” a natural clearing in the Redwoods at Nestldown, where all ceremonies are held.
Guests were arriving via convenient shuttle service (by Corinthian Ground Transportation) and making their way to the lavishly decorated ceremony area.
Time for the ceremony!
Here comes the bride, with her parents, serenaded by the Corelli Strings trio. The unique Persian-American ceremony was officiated by Sally’s best friend from college, together with Sally’s sister, with participation from her uncle, nephews and nieces, and a friend of the couple. This was a very personal, heartfelt moment for all.
The sofreh was a labor of love by the bride’s parents – her father built the table himself, her mother supplied all the symbolic items that are displayed on the sofreh, and her sister contributed to the ceremony with explanations for all guests who might not be familiar with the Persian wedding customs.
As part of the wedding ceremony, female family members shower the couple with sugar, rubbed over their heads, symbolizing the sweetness of marriage.
Just married!!
While Chris and Sally had to take more romantic photos – and video by Two4Tea – on the beautiful grounds of Nestldown…
…their guests enjoyed cocktails (by Bacchus Wine and Spirits) and hors d’oeuvres by Wylder Space Catering at the “Apple Knoll” event space – under a pergola hung with crystal chandeliers!
Another personal touch: Chris’ and Sally’s beloved canine Neville was cheering guests from the cocktail napkins…
… and Corelli Strings again provided the elegant musical background.
A truly elegant affair! Come dinner time, guests were invited to Nestldown’s Main Lawn …
… where tables with elegant floral centerpieces…
… a seating chart arranged on a huge mirror….
…..and place settings with individual leather name tags awaited them.
After a delicious dinner (by Wylder Space Catering) and heartfelt speeches by their parents, everyone moved inside the “Barn”, the central event space at Nestldown, for cutting the wedding cake and enjoying Persian desserts (by C’est Si Bon Bakery)…
… and for a huge surprise for the couple: a saxophonist whom the bride’s sister had secretly hired to play alongside DJ Woody Miraglia (of Big Fun Disc Jockeys) – a dream come true for Sally and Chris! Saxophonist Justin Ward, a musician through and through, accompanied the newlyweds’ First Dance under the giant crystal chandelier…
… and from that moment on, it was only “dance, dance, dance” for the rest of the evening. A Grand Send-off with shimmering bubbles was the last high point of this incredible celebration, before the couple was whisked away in the authentic vintage London taxi which is one of the special perks at Nestldown.
Keep celebrating and dancing, Sally and Chris – wishing you a lifetime of happiness together!
30 yrs ago, a young couple starting their family purchased 180 acres of wilderness in the Santa Cruz Mountains and, through persistent hard work, they “moved a mountain” in the literal sense of the word; they transformed it into their vision of a garden oasis, for themselves, their children and ultimately, for wedding celebrations. They built a huge (elegant!) barn – already planned as a fully outfitted event space – where their children could play; a storybook cottage for their girls, a life-size train for their boys (father and son), a tree house… and over the years added innumerable extra touches to what is now the ultimate elegant wedding destination in the Redwoods. With a natural Redwood “chapel” for ceremonies, ponds, meadows, 36 acres of manicured gardens, mature trees with permanently installed twinkle lights casting a magical glow at dusk – Nestdown has become the perfect combination of elegance and natural beauty. It is still owned and managed by the same family, meanwhile supported by the children who had the good fortune growing up in this magical place.
Photo credit Melissa Floriano
I have been honored to be included in the small handful of wedding planners allowed to work at this exceptional venue, and here are images from the many, many weddings I have been privileged to plan, design and produce there. Let me show you around…
The “Chapel,” a natural clearing in the redwoods, paved with flagstones for the most romantic ceremony spot imaginable.
Photo credit Bre Thurston
Photo credit JJ Chen
These are the wedding photos you want to see again and again, down the road, in twenty years…
Photo credit Bre Thurston
Photo credit Melissa Floriano
Photo credit Megan Reeves
Photo credit Megan Reeves
Of course, you need a photo with the Fairytale Cottage…
Photo credit Melissa Floriano
… and with the train… and the tree house… while your guests are enjoying cocktails!
Photo credit Melissa Floriano
Dinner on the Main Lawn is magical, as dusk is falling…
Photo credit Bre Thurston
Photo credit Bre Thurston
… and after that, it’s dancing, dancing, dancing under the enormous crystal chandelier in the Barn.
Photo credit Ben Ingram
And at Nestldown, the Grand Send-Off of the newlyweds is definitely one of the highlights of the event!
Photo credit Bre Thurston
Through a “tunnel” of cheering guests, the couple departs to a waiting authentic London taxi!
Photo credit Melissa Floriano
Bon voyage and a lifetime of happiness – which started on this magical day at Nestldown.
Never heard of it? You should! The Arlo is a brand-new, super-modern, hyper-chic wedding venue in the countryside just outside of Austin, TX, and living proof that YES, you can have urban elegance AND romantic rolling hills!
It’s all white with huge windows all around, and that way, bright daylight floods the expansive interior spaces.
There is a double-height Great Room for dinner and dancing, accommodating up to 300 (!) guests; there is even a stunning indoor ceremony space with massive ceiling beams – that are meant to be decorated with suspended greenery, florals or swags.
There is a white-on-white flight of stairs for unforgettable send-offs…
There is a bridal suite right out of “ELLE Decor” – so beautifully designed and decorated! – and a whole cottage for groom and groomsmen; there are covered, shaded patios for Cocktail Hour…
… and of course, a ceremony lawn, with the ceremony spot anchored on an outdoor fireplace.
Not to forget, there are endless views, and heavenly peace and quiet – less than an hour from the city, yet truly a world apart.
To me, the Arlo was a huge discovery, and I can’t wait to create “wedding magic” there!
Jira and I go back many years. I hardly know anyone as hardworking as her. We have collaborated on countless weddings… not only because she is extremely experienced, professional and so good at what she does – she can also bring a whole army of qualified assistants to any wedding, so styling a dozen bridesmaids in time is absolutely no problem for her.
“How long have you been in business, and what brought you to hair/makeup styling?“
My passion for beauty began in childhood, as I loved making my friends and family look beautiful. By now, with Jira Salon and Wowpretty Makeup and Hair Agency, I look back on over 25 years of experience and more than 5,000 successful clients.
What is your specific style – natural, elegant, glamorous…? What is your ideal bride/bridesmaid/mother?
My team and I specialize in various styles, including natural, elegant, and glamorous looks. We understand that everyone has unique facial features, personalities, and personal styles. As experts in beauty, we take the time to understand each client’s vision, ensuring they achieve the look they love the most.
Are you specializing in a particular technique? If so, why – what is unique about it?
Yes, I specialize in creating customized bridal looks that enhance each bride’s natural beauty while complementing their unique facial features, personality, and wedding style.
Jira at work at one of my brides
What is the difference between DIY hair/makeup and professional makeup?
Professional makeup artists and hairstylists have extensive training and experience in working with different skin types, facial features, and hair textures. They understand how to create looks that enhance natural beauty, complement individual styles, and last all day—especially crucial for weddings and special events.
Professionals use high-quality, long-wearing products and advanced techniques, such as airbrush makeup for a flawless, lightweight finish and precision hairstyling for lasting volume and elegance. They also know how to ensure that makeup looks stunning both in person and in high-definition photography, which is often a challenge with DIY applications.
While DIY makeup can be fun for everyday looks, professional artistry ensures a polished, camera-ready, and long-lasting result that brings out the best version of you on your special day.
What is the difference between great and not-so-great hair and makeup?
“The difference between great and not-so-great hair and makeup comes down to technique, product quality, and how well the look is tailored to the individual.
Great hair and makeup enhance natural beauty, complement facial features, and suit the occasion, personality, and style of the person wearing it. The application is seamless, blending effortlessly into the skin, with makeup that looks flawless both in person and in photos. High-quality products ensure long-lasting wear, and hairstyling maintains its shape and elegance throughout the event.
On the other hand, not-so-great hair and makeup can appear cakey, uneven, or unblended, failing to enhance the individual’s features. Poor-quality products may cause the makeup to fade, smudge, or oxidize, while improper hairstyling techniques can lead to flat or overly stiff hair that doesn’t hold up. Additionally, if the look doesn’t match the person’s style, skin tone, or event setting, it may feel unnatural or uncomfortable.
A skilled professional ensures that hair and makeup are expertly applied, flattering, and long-lasting, giving confidence and elegance to every client.
Again – Jira at work at one of my brides
When choosing a stylist, which questions should a bride ask? What are “red flags” to avoid?
Questions to ask:
What is your experience with bridal hair and makeup? – Ensures the stylist has expertise in wedding beauty.
Can I see your portfolio or client reviews? – Helps assess their style, quality of work, and consistency.
Do you offer a trial session? – A trial is crucial to test the look before the wedding day.
What products do you use? – High-quality, long-lasting products are essential for durability and a flawless finish.
Do you offer airbrush makeup? – Airbrush can provide a lightweight, long-lasting, and HD-ready look.
How do you customize the look for different skin tones, textures, and hair types? – Ensures the stylist can work with diverse features.
What is your pricing and what does it include? – Helps clarify costs, potential add-ons, and travel fees.
How do you handle last-minute changes or emergencies? – Professional stylists should have a backup plan.
How long will the styling process take on the wedding day? – Timing is key to avoid delays.
Do you stay for touch-ups or offer additional services for the bridal party? – Some stylists provide extended services for a flawless look throughout the event.
2. Red Flags to Avoid:
Lack of a portfolio or inconsistent work – A professional should have clear examples of past bridal work. No trial session or refusal to do one – A trial is essential for ensuring satisfaction with the final look. Poor hygiene or expired products – Clean tools and fresh products are critical for skin and hair health. Limited knowledge of different skin tones and hair textures – A stylist should be experienced in working with diverse clients. Unclear pricing or hidden fees – A professional should provide a detailed breakdown of costs. Negative reviews or complaints about professionalism – Check for patterns in feedback regarding punctuality, communication, or reliability. Unwillingness to listen or customize the look – A great stylist should tailor the look to the bride’s preferences. Lack of a contract – A contract protects both parties and ensures clarity on services provided. Overbooking on the wedding day – If a stylist juggles too many clients, they may be rushed or unavailable for touch-ups. Unreliable communication – Slow responses or lack of professionalism in communication can be a red flag for potential issues.
Not on time, forgot equipment – Being late or forgetting equipment is not acceptable. It’s very important to make sure you bring everything on the day, even products and colors you may not use but know you might need. In 80% of the cases, the bride may change her mind at the last minute and want a different look, so as a good stylist, we need to be prepared for those changes – just in case.”
A professional stylist should be experienced, communicative, and committed to making the bride feel confident and beautiful on her big day.
How much time do you reserve for each service? And do you recommend touch-ups during the wedding day?
I typically reserve around 2 hours for the bride and 1 to 1.5 hours for each additional woman, for a comfortable experience and a flawless finish
Yes, we do recommend touch-ups during the wedding day, especially for the bride, as it ensures she looks fresh and flawless throughout the event. However, we understand that weddings can be costly, and touch-up services can add to the expense.
To help with this, we always suggest that brides consider doing their own touch-ups themselves if they prefer to keep costs down. During the trial or pre-wedding consultation, we take the time to show and teach each bride how to touch up their makeup and hair so they feel confident doing it themselves. This way, they can maintain their look without the added cost while still looking great throughout the day.”
Why is professional hair/makeup so expensive?
“Professional hair and makeup services may seem expensive, but there are several factors that contribute to the cost.
Experience and Expertise: Skilled professionals bring years of training, practice, and specialized knowledge to ensure that your hair and makeup not only look flawless but also last throughout the entire day. They know the best techniques, products, and tools to create a look that enhances your natural beauty and is suited to your unique features.
Quality Products and Tools: Professionals use high-quality, long-lasting products that are designed for special occasions, ensuring a flawless finish that stays in place through photos, emotions, and all-day wear. This also includes premium tools, such as brushes, tools for airbrushing, and high-end styling tools, which all come with additional costs.
Personalized Service: Each service is tailored specifically to the client, whether it’s creating a unique bridal look, understanding different skin tones, hair textures, or catering to specific requests. This level of customization requires additional time and expertise.
Time Commitment: On the wedding day, a stylist will spend several hours preparing the bride, bridal party, and others. Beyond the actual styling, there’s time for consultation, trial sessions, and any last-minute adjustments, as well as preparation time for the artist to ensure they’re equipped for the event.
Travel and On-Site Services: Many professionals offer on-site services, meaning they travel to your location on the wedding day, which adds travel time, transportation costs, and sometimes overnight accommodations for destination weddings.
Specialized Skillset: Bridal hair and makeup artists have expertise in creating looks that photograph beautifully, last all day, and stand up to the emotional rollercoaster of a wedding. They also have the ability to quickly adjust to changing conditions, whether it’s the weather or specific requests from the bride or bridal party.
Ultimately, the cost reflects the value of the professional’s time, skill, quality, and the overall experience they provide to make the bride feel confident and beautiful on her special day.”
Anything else you’d like to add
Yes! HOW WE ARE DIFFERENT!
Expertise and Experience: Our team of licensed cosmetologists boasts a minimum of 10 years of experience in the industry, with unique talents and skills.
Cutting-Edge Techniques: Our makeup artists are at the forefront of the industry, utilizing the newest airbrushing techniques to achieve flawless, long-lasting results and any look desired.
Personalized Service: With our large staff, we offer tiered pricing for different levels of expertise, and we include airbrushing and lashes at no additional cost.
Convenience and Flexibility: Visit us at our salon in Burlingame, CA, or let us come to you, anywhere in the world. In the rare event of an emergency, rest assured that we always have additional stylists on call to save the day.
Trial Sessions and Guarantee: If for any reason you’re not satisfied with your trial, you can choose another stylist at no additional cost.
Attention to Detail: Our consultations include trial makeup and hair sessions, allowing for feedback and adjustments to ensure there are no surprises on your wedding day.
Professional Connections: With our extensive network of professional vendors in the Bay Area, we can coordinate with your wedding planner and other vendors to ensure that every aspect of your wedding is flawless and perfect.
At Wowpretty, we promise seamless coordination with you and your planner; we develop a well-planned timeline, and we have high attention to detail, a personalized approach, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Your wedding day is a celebration of love, joy, and new beginnings.
Let Wowpretty Team be a part of your special day, and together, we’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.
All you need to know about great (wedding) hair and makeup!
Cherise and I go back to the first years we both had our businesses, and even back then it was obvious how talented and experienced Cherise is – and also, how much enthusiasm she brings to her craft. If anyone is knowledgeable about all things (wedding) hair and makeup, it’s someone like her!
“How long have you been in business, and what brought you to hair/makeup styling?“ I have been a hair and makeup artist for 20+ years. I am also a “behind-the-chair” hairstylist specializing in color, cuts and extensions. I was very young when I started doing hair and makeup on myself and my friends, and I was blessed to know that this was my calling at a young age. I was born with a disfiguring facial birth defect that was finally surgically corrected when I was 14 years old. The experience of being ridiculed for my appearance in school cemented my goal to make others look at feel beautiful from the inside out. I attended cosmetology school at age 17, received my license and started my business at 18 1/2 years old.
.
“What is your specific style – natural, elegant, glamorous…? What is your ideal bride/bridesmaid/mother?“ My most requested style is “natural glam.” I strongly believe in accentuating my clients’ natural beauty, all while making them look amazing for their photos. My ideal brides are the ones who are kind and who are excited to collaborate with me!
BRD
“Are you specializing in a particular technique? If so, why – what is unique about it?“ My specialty and what sets me apart from other artists is actually not a particular technique, but my hunger to learn and serve. After all these years I’m still constantly taking classes and learning!
“What is the difference between DIY hair/makeup and professional makeup?“
Professional hair and makeup will be the least expensive part of your wedding day. I believe that if you’re paying so much money for professional photography/videography, you want to look your best! Having done literally thousands of weddings as a longtime hair and makeup artist, I know exactly what to do to make your wedding photos those of your dreams, with the appropriate hair and makeup. I also invest a significant amount of time and money into the best products for my clients.
“What is the difference between great and not-so-great hair and makeup?“ I believe there is an artist for everyone, and everyone has his/her own unique style.
“When choosing a stylist, which questions should a bride ask? What are “red flags” to avoid?“ I always suggest doing your research online; also, word of mouth is one of the best tools. Look to your friends’ or family members’ recommendations. Also be sure to ask how much experience the artist has in doing weddings. I always develop (AND strictly follow!) a day-of timeline, hire experienced assistants and, most of all, myself and my team NEVER run late! The last thing you want is to have a hair and makeup artist holding up the flow of the day.
Screenshot
“How much time do you reserve for each service? And do you recommend touch-ups during the wedding day?“ Every artist has his/her own timing. I am VERY experienced, and I use assistants who have been working with me for years, so I can say with confidence that we are like a well-oiled machine. Generally, for the bride I take an hour and a half total for hair and makeup. Bridesmaids take 30 minutes or so for hair and 25-30 minutes for makeup. I have in the past had brides/wedding coordinators really question my timing, but then they are always blown away on the day of the wedding when I finish on time, and usually early! I do offer touch-ups at an hourly rate. Of course, you hope they aren’t necessary, and that all you really need for touch-ups is some powder and (for sure) lipstick!
BRD
“Why is professional hair/makeup so expensive?“
As I mentioned before – hair and makeup will be the least expensive endeavor of your big day. On that note, I take extensive time beforehand to communicate with the bride; I spend time setting up a contract and formulating a timeline. I also have to coordinate my assistants for the wedding day. In addition to those details, I take much pride in my hair and makeup kits, which means a significant time investment for ordering, restocking and purchasing the best products I can get! But the most important factor of all is that you are paying for my expertise, experience AND my calm, friendly and understanding demeanor on a day that can be very stressful. I make sure to not be the cause of any sort of stress on your wedding day!
“Anything else you’d like to add?“ I am so happy to meet so many amazing people in my career. And I look forward to many more years!
A little extra about me. I have been married to Patrick for 12 years; I have two daughters – Ireland James (11) and Golden Summer (4). When I’m not at work or having fun with my girls, I am OBSESSED with working out; I have lost 50 pounds over the last four years. What else? Having worked at Starbucks during high school and cosmetology school, I am still a fan of their Iced Americanos, and my favorite food is taco salad. I love to travel; my most-visited travel spots are Newport Beach, San Diego and Ko’olina/Hawaii. I am also a Disney Lover and frequent Disneyland visitor. Country music is another love of mine! I am very passionate about my clients and my business. I have been doing hair and makeup more than half my life and I am so blessed to have a career where I get to make others feel good about themselves!
Another insight into the ground rules for wedding photography from acclaimed San Francisco photographer Kevin Chin with whom I have worked on many weddings – and his photos are always fantastic! Elegant, capturing the atmosphere and the moment AND all the pretty details – a balanced approach to capturing a wedding, and always stunning!
“How did you get into photography? And, in particular, into WEDDING photography? What is it that fascinates you about it?“
Like many people, photography started as a hobby for me. I was always the one taking photos on family vacations and gatherings. I started taking photos of my friends for fun. From there, people started to ask me to shoot their family portraits and weddings. The rest is history. Weddings are the most important day in a person’s life, and I feel privileged and honored to capture their special day. Experiencing the joy and emotions of a wedding day is something that I never get tired of.
“What is your specific style and why?”
I would say I incorporate a mixture of many different styles when shooting a wedding. You need to well-versed in many photography styles to capture all the different elements of a wedding. I am very good at posing my couples to flatter their body characteristics and their style to make them look their best. I’m also good at observing and capturing real candid moments throughout the day. And, of course, I use my creative eye to capture all the pretty details of the wedding day that the couple has chosen, which include the wedding dress, flowers, decor, venue, etc. I also take into account what style of photography my couple is looking for. Some prefer candids and don’t like posing for photos, while others want beautiful posed portraits and want to look like a model. I try to capture a good mixture of everything, but I’m happy to accommodate their preferences.
“How have you evolved as a photographer?”
I have been a professional photographer for over 30 years. I have gone from shooting film to digital. I have always strived to shoot in a classic style that will not look dated over time. During the film days when there weren’t any previews of the photos you were shooting, with practice and experience, I developed a repertoire of poses and key shots that I knew would always work and that every couple would like. These were the “safe shots” or “money shots” that I knew I had mastered and that I could rely on for every wedding. When digital came around, I was able to experiment more because I could see a preview of the images as I was shooting. This gave me the freedom to experiment more which, I feel, made me a more creative photographer. I feel I offer the best of both worlds because I learned the fundamentals of photography with film and became even more creative with digital technology.
“How do you connect with couples?”
My couples tell me that they appreciate my calm demeanor and easygoing personality. This is something that is appreciated on the wedding day because it helps the couple stay calm on their wedding day.
“What is the difference between an experienced professional photographer and laypeople shooting with their cellphone cameras?”
Wedding photography is the one category that couples should invest in wisely because when the wedding is over, all you have left are your wedding photos. You want to make sure you invest in an experienced professional photographer that can capture all the different events of a wedding day. As I mentioned before, a professional photographer should be experienced with capturing flattering portraits, candids that capture authentic moments, and beautiful detail and venue shots.
These different photography styles is what it takes to capture the true essence of the wedding day. You may love the style of your photographer that you are about to choose, but make sure they are experienced on how a wedding day flows. This is important because you want to make sure your photographer doesn’t miss any key moments such as the first kiss, the first dance, etc. Once the moment is over, it’s over. There are no second takes on a wedding day.
“Why is wedding photography expensive?”
You pay for what you get!
“Anything else you want to add?”
Whomever you pick as your photographer, you want to make sure you get along with that person because your photographer will be with starting with you putting on the dress until the last dance. You want to make sure that you like this person and that you vibe with their personality.
Nancy and I are going back more than a decade… and I have come to highly appreciate her very elegant approach to wedding flowers. For example, she is not using any “fillers” – and that, of course, makes her arrangements more beautiful (but also more expensive). It’s true – she is a luxury wedding florist! Just admire the stunning floral decor she creates… and learn from her insights!
Behind the Blooms: A Florist’s Approach to Luxury Wedding Flowers
Ever wonder what goes into creating breathtaking wedding florals? Here’s a little insight into my world as a florist!
“What is your specific strength as a florist?“
What sets me apart is that I don’t just design as a floral designer—I design as an event designer. My work isn’t just about making arrangements look beautiful; it’s about crafting a full guest experience. Every floral element is placed with intention—how it looks, feels, photographs, and enhances the atmosphere for both the couple and their guests.
I’m also too practical to design just for a trend. Trends come and go, but a well-designed event is timeless. Our design philosophy is rooted in my instantly recognizable belief that florals should complement, not compete with the space, the setting, and the guest experience. I approach every event with this mindset, ensuring that the floral design elevates the event in a way that feels intentional and seamlessly integrated.
“What does it take to deliver stunning wedding flowers?“
Beyond beautiful blooms, it takes: Designing with Purpose – Every arrangement is curated for its aesthetic, functionality, and impact on the event flow. Expert Curation – Sourcing the freshest, most stunning blooms to create the perfect palette and texture. Seamless Collaboration – Working closely with planners, venues, and other vendors to ensure every detail aligns. Flexibility & Quick Thinking – No event goes 100% as planned, so adapting without sacrificing design integrity is key.
Real-Life Solution: One of the most complex installations I ever tackled was designing an orchid chandelier where the rigging point was on the 2nd floor, but guests were entering from the Mezzanine. The strands had to hang 27 feet down, so I had to engineer a way to suspend a grid from the 2nd floor opening that extended all the way to the Mezzanine.
On top of that, each strand had to be prepped in advance to avoid tangling—one wrong move, and we’d have a massive floral mess before the event even started! It took careful planning, precision rigging, and an eye for both aesthetics and logistics.
That’s the level of detail we go to—designing florals that not only look breathtaking but are also executed flawlessly.
“Why are wedding flowers so expensive?
Great question! The cost isn’t just about the flowers—it’s about everything that goes into creating a flawless execution:
Premium Blooms – Many wedding flowers are imported, seasonal, or require careful handling. Expert Design & Labor – Designing, processing, arranging, and installing florals takes skilled professionals and hours of work. Logistics & Setup – Transporting fragile blooms, setting up installations, and ensuring everything looks perfect under a tight timeline. Event-Day Execution – Unlike home flowers, wedding florals must be flawless for one day only, requiring meticulous planning.
A wedding is a one-shot production—and florals are a critical part of that visual storytelling.
Evoto
“What’s the Difference Between Low-Quality and High-Quality Floral Décor?“
It all starts with the artisan’s mission, execution, and service.
Low-quality florals feel like an afterthought—generic, uninspired, and poorly executed. They lack careful sourcing, handling, and attention to detail, often arriving wilted, misplaced, or unfinished.
High-quality florals aren’t just about expensive blooms—it’s about how even a simple carnation is cared for, how a bunch of sweet peas is watched for days, and how upon delivery, wilting flowers are replaced, glass is wiped, and centerpieces are placed perfectly.
Luxury floral design is about craftsmanship and precision—but also having enough skilled hands on site to ensure everything is installed on time, adjusted, and perfected. It’s about going beyond expectations, so the final product feels effortless, polished, and truly extraordinary.
“What else do you want to add?”
Great floral design is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about how it makes people feel. It’s about creating an atmosphere, a memory, an experience. When done right, florals don’t just decorate a space—they transform it.
Our design is intended to reflect my instantly recognizable belief that wedding florals should be more than just pretty arrangements—they should be part of the guest experience, an extension of the event design, and a defining element of the celebration.
For me, florals are never just about flowers. They’re about elevating the event, enhancing the guest experience, and making a moment unforgettable.
On how to choose your perfect wedding photographer
“How did I get into photography? And why am I fascinated by weddings?
I believe both my twin brother and I got the artistic genes from my mother. She was an art major in college. Definitely not from my dad; he had an engineering mind. Though I didn’t draw, I picked up a camera (film of course) when I was a child. And I fooled around with photography through high school. Taking pictures of friends and family. Then, after graduating college, wanting to travel and not sit behind a desk, I started modeling. This gave me freedom to travel (which is a big part of my photography journey now) and I met and worked with some of the best photographers around the world. In a way, modeling was my photography school. I learned “in front of the camera” (as a model) how to direct my subjects from behind the camera (as a photographer). After traveling extensively during my 20’s, I felt it was time to settle down, and photography was a very natural progression as I had been involved in image creating for many years already. Since I was very comfortable around people (traveling and working on so many fashion sets), I felt I had more than enough experience in directing people to create “fashionable portraits.” Combining this with the non-stop photojournalistic photography that I did while traveling, I felt I was groomed for wedding photography (the culmination of both portraiture and photojournalism, set in a high pace environment). It didn’t take long before I was booking jobs in the Bay Area, Southern California, Texas, and a number of other cities around the US.
So what brought me to weddings was my previous experience, what kept me immersed in the wedding industry was: 1) The incredible satisfaction of capturing once in a lifetime moments to preserve forever, and the connection and appreciation from my clients. 2) The wonderful network of vendors that I worked with regularly at these events. From wedding coordinators, to caterers, to florists, and the venue operators. I was working two, or three events every weekend so we got to know each there very well. They were my extended family.
What is my specific style, and why?
Photography, is a visual representation on how I view the world. This is what makes each artist different. I love the spontaneity and unpredictability of life. It fascinates me. Having the vision and skill to capture these fleeting moments in a way that expresses the feeling and emotions of that instance is inspiring. This is the photojournalist in me. Along with that, composing and directing “set shots” that bring out the best in whoever I work with, is another rewarding aspect of wedding photography. This is the fashion side of me. So, fashion-photojournalism is the best description of my style.
How have I evolved as a photographer?
With any art, or job for that matter, you bring all of your experiences to the table when you go to work. Everything! So, year after year I expand my portfolio of knowledge. To date, I have a portfolio extending over 30 years. This experience includes something like a thousand weddings, countless portrait sessions, hundreds of corporate events, many wonderful family shoots, and traveling and photographing people and cultures in 6 continents (about 50 counties). I evolve everyday I shoot. I come to each session with an incredible amount of previous experience, but, I approach each situation with a “new set of eyes,” as each person, and situation will present new opportunities to create unique images. That is what keeps me inspired and engaged in every shoot I take on. Photography, like life, is a never ending process of learning and experiencing. To really accel in any business, it is critical to always be curious and want to expand on your previous experience.
How do I connect with couples?
I have always had a very calm demeanor. I believe this sense of peace resonates with my clients. Then, because I have so much experience, and have seen so much over 30+ years of photography, my confidence is evident. The combination of a calm demeanor and visible confidence, polite but purposeful direction, puts my couples at ease. They know they are in good hands.
What is the difference between a professional and part time photographer with a cell phone?
As mentioned before, weddings are a culmination of different types of photography. First, there are the “set”, or posed photos. These take a creative vision, and the skills to direct the subjects to get the desired result. Not necessarily an easy task unless the photographer is very accomplished, and has the full trust and attention of the subjects to make the posing go quickly and seamlessly. I am very good att this. Second, the photojournalistic aspect of weddings takes: anticipation, then instantaneous decision on angle, lens use, camera settings, etc. in order to fully portray the moment in a meaningful way. Both aspects involve experience and creativity. That doesn’t mean that a “non-pro” can’t take a good image. But, it takes someone with extensive experience and creativity to create powerful images on a consistent basis.
Why is wedding photography expensive?
People are paying for years and years of experience. There is no substitute for time. Also, the artists unite, one of a kind, creativity. Their vision cannot be replicated or copied.
Yes, a ’non-pro” photographer can shoot a wedding and probably be much less expensive. But there is no doubt that the quality of the imagery, and the experience working with that photographer will be very different from an accomplished professional. Also, a wedding is a “one shot” deal. There are no “re-do’s” in wedding photography. Everything has to be done right, at that very moment.
Beyond the “day of performance”, there is the post production work (editing) of the imagery. Most weddings are typically a one day event, but the post production can take many days. It’s not unusual to spend 40 or 50 hours in post production to create the final product.
To sum up my thoughts on wedding photography and booking the one that will work for you, I would consider a few things-
Look carefully at how the photographer takes both candid and posed images. Does the style resonate with you? Also try to look at a lot of images, especially ones that are relevant to your event (Indoor? Outdoor? Formal? Casual?)
The photographer is with you throughout the day. ALL DAY. How comfortable you are in their presence will affect you on the day, and the images that are created.
Trust. Having trust is critical on the day of (no second guessing) as well as knowing that the person will deliver a product you are happy with in a timely manner.
A career lawyer working 12-hour days and a Dutch engineer traveling worldwide for business – when such a super-busy power couple plans a wedding, they need help. A lot of help. Anja and Eric realized that fact early on and enlisted my company, A Day Like No Other, shortly after booking their venue. As avid outdoorspeople, they had chosen Nestldown Estate, a 36-acre property of natural Redwoods, manicured lawns, elegant event spaces and whimsical extras like a lifesize toy train, a giant sand sculpture, a fairytale cottage, flying dragons… it is truly one-of-a-kind!
Our planning journey, as expected, happened with many starts and stops, depending on the couple’s workload and schedules. Catering, flowers, photo and video; music, guest entertainment, transportation and guest accommodations… there was a lot to be done! And finally, the Great Day had come.
For bride Anja, the day started with hair and makeup services by Design Her Image…
… while groom Eric was likewise busy with preparations.
Time to present herself to her groom for the first time in all her wedding beauty – First Look!
Meanwhile, the teams of Nestldown, A Day Like No Other, La Bocca Fina Catering and florist Green Petal Designs were frantically working behind the scenes to get all preparations done in time. Guests began arriving via shuttle (Corinthian Ground Transportation), and our DJ Woody Miraglia of Big Fun Disc Jockeys began playing prelude music in the “Chapel,” a natural clearing amidst towering Redwoods, accessed by a long flight of stairs which make for the most dramatic walk “down the aisle.”
The wedding ceremony was officiated by a longtime friend of the couple, and as such was very personal – and emotional.
Just married! “You may kiss your bride!”
While guests were invited to cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, musically accompanied by Victoria Studio (Victoria Liu), a duo playing classic Chinese tunes on authentic Chinese instruments, the newlyweds had many more photos to take…
Behind the scenes and unbeknowst to the guests, a Lion Dance Troupe (Lion Dance Me) was preparing for the big surprise of the day.
Once dining tables had been set up…
… guests were invited to attend the couple’s Tea Ceremony on the Main Lawn…
… and after that, the drumroll started!
Here come the cutest Chinese lions you’ve ever seen! They cozied up to the guests, batted their eyelashes and were altogether absolutely adorable.
Guests were delighted, and then dinner took place “under the stars” and under twinkling lights, accentuated with toasts and speeches.
After dinner, guests were invited to the “Barn” – the central function space at Nestldown – for Cake Cutting and dancing.
The “Barn” is a barn just by name (and by its architectural style) – it is in fact a rustic-elegant event space with everything you might wish for, including a monumental crystal chandelier…
… below which countless couples have performed their First Dance as husband and wife, just as these two here did. And except for the traditional Bouquet Toss and Cake Cutting…
… it was all DANCE, DANCE, DANCE for the rest of the night.
It was a truly unforgettable day. Anja’s and Eric’s Grand Send-off was the high point of the night:
Bubbles…
… and an exit in an authentic vintage London Taxi!
Ever wonder what goes into creating breathtaking wedding florals? Here’s a little insight into my world as a florist!
Designing with Purpose – Every arrangement is curated for its aesthetic, functionality, and impact on the event flow.
Real-Life Solution:
Premium Blooms – Many wedding flowers are imported, seasonal, or require careful handling.
Expert Design & Labor – Designing, processing, arranging, and installing florals takes skilled professionals and hours of work.
Logistics & Setup – Transporting fragile blooms, setting up installations, and ensuring everything looks perfect under a tight timeline.
Event-Day Execution – Unlike home flowers, wedding florals must be flawless for one day only, requiring meticulous planning.
