For Mama And Baby . . .

  . . . parrot tulips from Arcata, ornamental oregano, nigella, and scabiosa from Half Moon Bay, garden roses from Garden Valley Ranch in Petaluma, clematis vine from Napa, and freesia from Pescadero. Congratulations and welcome!

A Lace Trimmed Wedding

 Just about a month ago today (this is how behind I am on posts) we were having one of our first rains of the season, and I was worried for E&J's upcoming outdoor wedding. But lo! The clouds parted to reveal freshly cleared skies and soft sunshine, making the views from the iconic Auberge du Soleil even more breathtaking. The happy couple married with a backdrop of the Napa Valley, punctuated by roses, passionvine, and Queen Anne's lace from Petaluma, larkspur from Pescadero, stock from Half Moon Bay, lyismachia from Gilroy, and dahlias from Miramar.

I made the lace accents from a stash of vintage trims I first acquired while going to school in Iowa, and had carried along with me to Boston, Vermont, and back to California, waiting for a worthy use. I'm glad I held out! The incredibly sweet E wanted to incorporate as many lace detail as possible throughout the celebration; I can't imagine a more perfect use for my long hoarded treasure!

Congratulations again, E&J! It was a joy and honor to be a part of your day.

A Handmade Wedding

 Chefs M&L have made a food-filled life together up in Portland, but decided to celebrate their wedding closer to family at a friend's home in the El Cerrito hills. They married in a nearby park then returned to a reception full of delphinium from Pescadero, solidago and marigolds from Half Moon Bay, garden roses from Sonoma, lion's tale, nasturtiums, geraniums, and persimmons from Napa, and a feast prepared by the couple themselves. Quite an impressive accomplishment, which bodes well for many happy years to come! Congratulations and best of wishes, M&L!

M wore a retro knee length dress she reworked at the neckline with a bold nastutium applique salvaged from vintage linens (endless talent, right?). Her bouquet was a small and simple gathering of marigolds, mint, and nasturtiums (which I was worried about sourcing but managed to harvest enough of from a friend's garden- thank you L!). I hope someday to have photographs of the flowers and the dress together!