Sonoma Wedding : Rachel + Zach

They passed each other in the halls as teenagers until one day they decided love was a part of their future, together. Rachel and Zach spent their high school afternoons and weekends enjoying each others' company, but when it came time to go to college, Alabama called Zach's name, while Rachel stayed in Florida. Little did they realize long-distance was going to be a permanent fixture in their lives. Zach later transferred to a college in Florida, only to leave when it was time to go to medical school in Ohio.

For the past four years, Rachel and Zach went out of their way to visit each other. When Zach entered medical school, they planned weekend trips to ensure their love was a priority, regardless of the miles between them. Luckily enough, Zach scored residency in Orlando and after he proposed to the girl of his dreams, Rachel packed her bags and moved to Central Florida. Seeing how travel was a major part of their lives, it was fitting to plan a destination wedding in Sonoma, California. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, Rachel and Zach promised eternity to each other. Their dedication to each other was beautiful…and made even more so by copious amounts of red wine and the promise of a good time surrounded by those they love.

Rachel and Zach (and Chloe, obvs)…thank you for making your wedding in Sonoma so much fun to document. Your family made us feel like long, lost members and your friends made us feel like one of them. You both are salt of the earth and I can't wait to see what the future holds for people as amazing as yourselves. Much Love and Appreciation… j*

The wedding was at Gloria Ferrer Winery, tucked beautifully in the hills of Sonoma…and Rachel ensured all her details flowed perfectly with the natural vibe of the wedding day…

Rachel is a natural beauty…just a bit of makeup and hairspray and she was ready for her big day as a bride…

I had more time than usual to hang out with Rachel and her bridesmaids, which was fine by me…they were some of the funnest girls to be around!

Much to my delight, Rachel and Zach opted to see each other before the ceremony to ensure they had plenty of time for wedding photos around the winery…

…needless to say, Zach was ecstatic to see his beautiful bride…

There's something magical about weddings in Sonoma and Napa…the light is always beautiful…the wind softly blows…and vineyards make every photo feel magical…

It was 90-degrees and the wind was really blowing, but the couple didn't seem to notice…they were busy with other things 😉

I asked Rachel why they chose Sonoma for their destination wedding and she said the gorgeous scenery simply stole her heart…and her love for a good cabernet definitely helped…

Wine and diamonds…two things a girl can effortlessly love…

Rachel and Zach had a beautiful and personal ceremony officiated by their sweet friend…he made their vows so special!

After the ceremony, we walked the Sonoma hills for more wedding photos…and I loved every second of it!

Rachel, you're stunning. Really.

Zach, you're not too shabby yourself! 😉

A bride…a vineyard…and a bouquet…who could ask for more?

The wedding guests dined al fresco under strung italian lights, with stunning views of the vineyard at sunset…

After dinner, guests moved into the Gloria Ferrer Winery for the First Dance…

…the rest of the evening was spent enjoy libations, great music, and even better friendships…

Happy Wednesday!