A Wine Country Welcome

Weddings

April 15, 2024

A Dreamy Destination Wedding

The Welcome Reception
Healdsburg, California

Dean and Sonya’s luxurious and dreamy destination wedding in the wine country of Sonoma County, California was a photographer’s dream. Everything about this wedding weekend was planned to perfection and everything began with this first dinner the night before.

As this was a destination, Dean and Sonya hosted a dinner and dance party for all of their guests who arrived the day before the wedding. Located at the Montage Healdsburg, this jaw-dropping resort led to some absolutely stunning locations and views for this event.

It is hard to put into words just how excellent the floral work was for this welcome dinner. Especially the greenery draped around the bar. Top notch work by everyone involved.

Is this real life?

I’m pretty sure that the California weather was a paid actor. The lighting was perfect at every turn. The temperatures were perfect the entire time, from dining all fresco to dancing under the open sky. The atmosphere was a dream and the vibes were immaculate.

Dean and Sonya are also from the Atlanta area, so it was exciting that they invited a local vendor like me out to California to capture all of these moments for them. If you’re planning a destination area out of the Atlanta area, definitely keep us in mind. My bags are already packed!

The more I get to photograph rehearsal and welcome dinners, the more I’m becoming obsessed with them. The excitement and anticipation, the joy and laid back enjoyment of being together. Getting to know all the people who are important to my bride and groom so that I can make sure they’re included. It’s really tough to beat.

Definitely spend some time checking out these photos. Next week, I’ll be posting photos from their dreamy destination wedding at the same resort and you’ll definitely want to check them out.