Ashley and Tom’s Enchanting Carmel Valley Wedding

In the heart of California’s wine country, where rolling hills meet the azure sky, Ashley and Tom said “I do” in a Carmel Valley wedding that can only be described as a European fairytale brought to life. Set against the stunning backdrop of Carmel Valley, their special day was a blend of elegance, whimsy, and intricate details that reflected their passion for travel and nature with subtle hints of their love for Disney.

The Welcome Bags

They set their wedding date for September, a month aligned with the California wine harvest, at the picturesque Folktale Winery & Vineyards. Guests were invited to travel to Carmel Valley for this destination wedding, and the couple treated each guest with a well-appointed welcome bag complete with a thoughtful thank you note, a do-not-disturb sign, locally sourced artisan goods, and a custom cookie of their dog.

Outdoor Wedding Ceremony in Carmel

Ashley, a vision of grace in a wedding gown fit for a Disney princess, walked down the aisle to meet Tom, who looked every bit the prince charming in his custom-tailored tuxedo and velvet smoking slippers. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the valley, they exchanged vows under the open sky, their love story culminating with a happily ever after in front of friends and family.

Carmel Valley Wedding Reception

The wedding’s essence blended European elegance and fairytale enchantment, a fusion of French countryside charm and California cool. The reception was an intimate affair, with guests seated beneath twinkling cafe lights on a perfect fall evening. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and joy as everyone celebrated the couple’s love.

The decor integrated an abundance of white florals and French blue accents, echoing the couple’s shared adoration for nature and travel. A unique escort display guided guests to their seats with wine bottles embellished with the couple’s wax seal and a single white rose. The long tables were adorned with lush floral centerpieces, trailing vines, and custom toile linen napkins. Each place setting was a work of art, featuring personalized handmade paper menus and meticulously crafted scrolled place cards adorned with expert calligraphy. The couple’s love for animals, particularly their cherished dog Maya, shone through in the whimsical table number holders.

Handmade Paper Wedding Invitations

The journey to this magical day began with a wedding invitation that set the tone for the entire event. Handmade paper custom invitations, showcasing an exquisite letterpress illustration of Folktale Winery’s French-inspired chateau, hinted at the color palette of French blues and warm whites. Modern calligraphy and embossed floral accents added a touch of romance, while a details card featuring a map of Carmel Valley spoke to the couple’s adventurous spirits. The invitations were a work of art, wrapped in toile-patterned vellum and secured with delicate French blue silk ribbon. Enclosed in a cool blue handmade paper envelope with a fine art envelope liner, adorned with gold calligraphy and vintage postage, they were a preview of the grandeur to come.

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The Wedding Vendors

As Seen in Style Me Pretty

Planner: BYS Events + Design
Photography: Anya Kernes Photography
Floral Design: Gavita Flora
Beauty: @theblushatelier
Stationery: Lupine Letters
Rentals: Chic Event Rentals Archive Rentals
Venue & Catering: Folktale Winery & Vineyards
Videography: Yours Truly Media
Band: Lucky Devils Band
Transportation: Pacific Monarch
Officiant: @justinmeyer79
Bakery: La Vie Douce Design
Styling Plates: @simplethingsla
Styling Surface: Chasing Stone