Did someone say weddings on a vineyard? My heart always skips a beat being in Sonoma or Napa and getting to photography our lovely couples in beautiful wineries throughout wine country. Sunstone winery does not fall second to any vineyard for that matter. Like so many couples wanting to get married in Europe the gorgeous Sunstone Winery fulfills that dream by offering the luxury and beauty of a Tuscan countryside vineyard right here in Santa Ynez, California. Vineyards surrounding the property do not disappoint and compliment the terra cotta stone work that makes this place so magical.
Nestled in the Santa Ynez hills and surrounded by picturesque views of rolling hills, the Tuscan inspired estate was built from imported limestone from a small village in France and wood beams and roof tiles reclaimed from a 19th century lavender factory, once owned by Queen Victoria herself. With its sun washed terra cotta tones and Olive trees surrounding the villa, it was as if we had all been transported to an Italian wedding in Tuscany.
Having a wedding at this magical winery creates an experience for couples and their guests that can last an entire weekend. We spent two beautiful nights in this spectacular venue adoring everything from the countryside wine to the lavish rooms that were so incredible. I can’t describe how incredible the energy is surrounding this place and how it feels in the morning light to see the dew rest above the sprouting vines and throughout the hills. Sunstone winery is definitely a favorite and has such a presence of calm, beauty and luxury in the Southern California lands.
With a subtle pallet of blush and whites designed by Heather Benge this European destination inspired shoot was filled with organic and gentle tones allowing the natural elements of the venue to reign whilst brining in subtle pops of lavender. A floral arch accented the ceremony space creating a festival of classic harmony between the natural vines growing alongside the old building. This was definitely a wedding season of trends and seeing the color lavender make such a presence in the wedding scene gave off a nice and calming feeling.
The model held a luscious a lined medley of floral elements such as roses, anemones and hellebores with accented greenery. I loved how big and full her bouquet was against her classy lace applique wedding dress. The models were a real couple with a very European look and displayed a fond affection for one another making the shoot feel like a real wedding. Our intention of doing styled shoots and wedding inspired looks is to give brides an inspirational approach when designing their own wedding. Having been a bride myself, I know how daunting it can be when starting to plan a wedding not knowing where to start or what colors and design to look for. I love putting out fresh content that can inspire a bride and groom to get ideas on how they want their wedding to look like. My hopes with this shoot is that the right couple will see these images and feel that they to can have their wedding modeled after some of what Heather created.
As for this wedding venue. YOU CAN NOT GO WRONG WITH THE SUNSTONE WINERY! I am absolutely in love with this venue and was blown away by how amazing everyone was there.
We are over the moon to see this gorgeous shoot got picked up by our favorite film blog Wedding Sparrow. Click on the link to see the full feature!
