A Laid-Back Napa Valley Wedding on Triple S Ranch

Today we’re featuring Julie and Paul. The California bride married Irish groom in a laid back ranch wedding. Their intimate ceremony took place under an old oak tree and they dined outdoors before heading inside to dance the night away. We asked them to answer a few questions about their dream-day.

How did Paul propose?

Paul convinced me that we were on our way to the lake house for a weekend of chores. I was dreading it! He suggested we stop in Calistoga at the Solage resort for a cocktail. As we sat by the fire pit with our lab, Buck, Paul asked me to marry him. He is from Ireland and presented me with a Claddagh ring. The Claddagh ring meaning is all about love, loyalty, and friendship. The two hands represent friendship, a heart symbolizes love and the crown on top is for loyalty.

Did you write your own vows or exchange traditional vows?

My grandfather performed the ceremony which made it so meaningful. He did not share the vows with us prior to the big day. He did a beautiful job. My favorite line was that we had each found our four leaf clover.

Tell us about the top 1-3 moments of your wedding day.

Standing under the big oak tree as my grandfather performed our ceremony with my daughter next to us. The friends that came to celebrate with us. I messed up and "I will" before I was supposed to sending everyone into a fit of laughter,

What do you think you'll remember the most from your wedding 50 years from now?

The laughter and the singing of Irish tunes well into the morning. The big crew that came out from Ireland to celebrate with us. My grandmother was there for the wedding. She passed away 3 months later.

What is the best advice you've received (that you've actually been able to use)?

Relax. Nobody will notice if something goes wrong except for you.

What details in your wedding did you incorporate that were deeply meaningful to the two of you?

Celebrating with our family was the most important part of our wedding for both of us. My daughter, sister and niece stood up for me. Paul's brother was his best man and 2 of his dearest friends (just like family) stood up for him.

Did you incorporate anything non-traditional or quirky that you would like us to note?

The best man hired a magician and an Irish dancer. Both were great fun!

What is your date night/day go-to?

We walk to our local spot, Sam's Grill. A place full of characters who have become friends.

Favorite local spots in your area?

Huntington Park, for walks with our 2 lab puppies.

Vendors :

Photographer: Robert Michael Films

Venue: Triple S Ranch

Catering: Calistoga Catering Co.

Event Planning: Details Event Planning

Florist: Tesoro Flowers