Jess Chen and Chad Ackerman "chased each other back and forth" through college before finally getting together and moving to California. Years later, Ackerman proposed during a stay at a romantic B&B in Vancouver.
Wedding planning for these two was quite practical. They started by taking an inventory of what they liked and disliked about weddings they'd attended, and ultimately, two major themes arose: They wanted a lush setting, and incorporating Chen's Taiwanese heritage (into an otherwise Western-style wedding) was a must.
Held at Wente Vineyards in Livermore, the celebration was luxurious. The color palette as navy and wine; the florals burst with deep red and white roses and peonies; and gilded and dramatic black accents added glamorous contrast to rustic wine barrels and wooden chairs. DIY moments appeared in the printed place cards and handmade paper cones for the petal toss, and twinkling lanterns topped the tables at the reception.
The couple's best advice: "Hire a good photographer. Outside of meals and the venue, photography was our biggest expense and we wouldn't do it any other way. Trust in them, and enjoy your day!"
Venue/Catering/Dessert: Wente Vineyards
Bridal Boutique:Novella Bridal
Wedding Dress:Essence of Australia
Bridesmaid Dresses:Birdy Grey
Groomsmen Suits:The Black Tux
Photographer: Cassie Rosch
Florist:Home Sweet Flowers
Hair and Makeup:My Hanh Beauty
