Bow ties, pies, black and white chevron, and a quick stop at a retro burger stand… Marion and Ryan’s wedding is a perfect example of choosing elements that you love, and not worrying too much about following a strict theme or style – and evidence that it can all come together beautifully! Pics by Kate Harrison.

The invitation suite included a fun hint at the playful wedding to come with a bow tie band and a pie banner that said Blessed be the pie that binds.

The couple’s favorite part of the day? “Seeing each other for the first time,” says Marion. “We both cried like babies.”

After their church ceremony, the couple stopped by Gott’s Roadside for a chocolate shake and some fun pics.

Black and white chevron table runners added a modern pop to the romantic, rustic flowers and setting.

Says the bride: “We live by the rule that that every good party has a theme. Thus, we themed our wedding ‘Pies and Bow-Ties’, requesting gentleman (and ladies if desired) to wear bow-ties and only serving pies for dessert. We felt that this aligned well with the country chic and fun California wedding concept.”

SEE THE FULL GALLERY FOR MORE MODERN DETAILS FROM THIS WEDDING AT THE FARMSTEAD.

 

Why did you choose this location for your wedding?  We were looking for the perfect country chic outdoor wedding reception site and stumbled across Farmstead. We are quite the foodies and Ryan has a flare for Southern cooking so when we tried the food, we were sold. Can we say to-die-for ribs and cheddar biscuits?

Did you include any traditions in your wedding?  We tried to pay homage to our families by getting married in the Episcopal Church. The cake cutter and champagne flutes were used in Marion’s grandparents’ wedding. Marion’s sorority has a dance to Jimmy Buffets’ “Margaritaville” that was a hit on the dance floor.

What was the best advice you received as a bride?  Don’t sweat the small stuff. Also, get a great lip color and re-apply regularly, lots of pictures make it to Google+ and Facebook and around the office.

Is there anything else that helps tell the story of the day?  Make your wedding you. Read the blogs and magazines to get the wonderful ideas, then take those ideas and add your personal flare for your wedding.

Photographer: Kate Harrison / Event Planner: Karin Kamb with Clever Girl Consulting / Venue, Catering, Cake: The Farmstead in St. Helena, California / Dress: Rivini, Ted Baker / Shoes: Kate Spade / Grooms attire: Vera Wang / Bow tie: Bird Dog Bay Bowtie / Bridesmaid Dresses: Monique Lhuillier / Stationery: Twig & Fig / Floral Designer: Centerpiece Floral and Home / Rentals: Classic Party Rentals / Music: Spinheads /