Rebecca and Michael’s California wedding at Villa & Vine reminded us that there are few things as romantic and timeless as a black tie, old Hollywood inspired wedding! Using the bride’s DIY paper goods, the bridesmaids’ handmade floral arrangements, and a classic black and white color palette, Ann Johnson Events created an outdoor affair that celebrated the couple’s love for each other and their community in the most beautiful way. In keeping with the sophisticated vibe of the venue, the bride also channeled Hollywood glam with a Louvienne gown and all of their guests dressed in black for a truly chic look. Katie Ruther Photography did a fantastic job capturing the heart and the soul of this timeless California wedding!

The Couple:

Rebecca and Michael

The Wedding:

Villa & Vine, Santa Barbara, California

The most memorable part of the day has to be our first look. I (Rebecca) was somewhat hesitant to have a first look, wanting that walking down the aisle, first time seeing each other moment…but, I am so glad that I was convinced otherwise. It really was one of the only moments throughout the day of our wedding that it got to be just the two of us. Being able to share that moment without anyone else being around, it really made any nerves that were there subside. It made the day feel that much more romantic and really just solidified that I was marrying my best friend.

Neither Michael nor I are very religious, but we did want to add elements of tradition into our ceremony. My boss, Jenn, married Michael and me, and she had individuals we are very close with perform the traditional Sheva Brachot (The Seven Blessings).

Villa & Vine is the only place we went and toured and booked it that same day. Michael and I are both pretty easy going and decisive, it just felt like the right choice for our wedding..and it totally was! Our color palette was white and black with touches of green throughout the entire venue. Clean, simple and classic. We had all of our guests wear black, which made the wedding have an added element of sophistication to it.

I designed all of the paper goods myself, (thanks, Pinterest!), and two of my bridesmaids did all of the florals. I feel really lucky to have such creative and helpful friends that just wanted to make our wedding day that much more memorable.

Michael and I didn’t have any surprises for one another, but we did have a surprise for both of our parents.  We had our DJ play both sets of parents first dance songs from their own weddings to dance in front of the crowd. Both of our parents are still married and have been for over 25 years! It felt really special for us to acknowledge them and their love and marriages.

Congratulations to Rebecca and Michael, and a big thanks to Katie Ruther Photography for sharing this lovely Villa & Vine wedding with Junebug! Love this sophisticated vibe? Then you have to see this botanical black and white Millwick wedding in Los Angeles!