Romantic Wedding at The Hummingbird Nest Ranch


"We both love the outdoors and Spanish colonial architecture so we knew right away that we wanted a venue that would capture this romantic feel. I’ve also loved the symbolism of “old wise trees” and family, so as we were about to plant our roots together in life, getting married under a tree was a must. As soon as we stepped foot on the grounds of Hummingbird Nest Ranch we fell in love! So much so that I cried - The old brick walls, gobble stone, clay tile roof, tons of greenery, and most importantly a beautiful olive grove where we could start our next chapter together, surrounded by family and friends. The venue was already so beautiful on it’s own, so all we had to do was add some personal touches like pops of burgundy and white flowers, additional greenery, lots of romantic lighting and a Spanish guitar player."



Tell us a little a bit about your wedding (your vision, color, style, and location choices).
>> We both love the outdoors and Spanish colonial architecture so we knew right away that we wanted a venue that would capture this romantic feel. I’ve also loved the symbolism of “old wise trees” and family, so as we were about to plant our roots together in life, getting married under a tree was a must. As soon as we stepped foot on the grounds of Hummingbird Nest Ranch we fell in love! So much so that I cried - The old brick walls, gobble stone, clay tile roof, tons of greenery, and most importantly a beautiful olive grove where we could start our next chapter together, surrounded by family and friends. The venue was already so beautiful on its own, so all we had to do was add some personal touches like pops of burgundy and white flowers, additional greenery, lots of romantic lighting and a Spanish guitar player.

Tell us about your attire choices.
>> His: Stephen liked the simplicity and relaxation of a suit over a tuxedo. With the outdoor scene and the green backdrop, he chose a bright blue Hugo Boss suit with light brown accents in the shoes and belt. With a white tie with flowers and pocket square, it tied everything back to Heather's white dress, as well as the bridesmaid dresses. The groomsmen were also in a blue suit with solid blue ties.

Hers: Heather loves the romantic look and feel of Chantilly lace but also wanted something that would ‘wow’ her soon to be husband. She went with a Pronovias Atelier lace dress with a blush underlay and long dramatic train. The dress was purchased with straps, but with the help of the creative and talented seamstress team at Wee Scotty in San Francisco, they were able to transform Heather’s vision into her dream dress. They removed the straps, added a lot of additional structure and support, and created the deep-v. They also made Heather’s cathedral veil with lace she purchased off of Amazon. The bridesmaids were in a palette of mauve colored, chiffon dresses.

What was the most important to the two of you while planning? Was there anything that you chose to splurge on or skip?
>> Writing our own vows and having a family member marry us. We wanted our ceremony to feel like us and be family-centric because let's be honest, without the love and support of our families (and friends), we'd likely not be where we are today. Music, music, and music! Heather loves to dance and it was important that our friends and family could cut loose out on the dance floor after traveling far and wide to spend the night with us. The food was also an important part of the night, Heather and Stephen love to indulge in a good meal. Ensuring our families had a good meal and base to party it up was key!

What were your favorite parts of the day? (memories and stories)
>> His: Starting off the day with getting the guys straight shaves and some good bonding time over beers, helped calm the nerves for Stephen. The cigar bar in the middle of the night was a key part of something Stephen wanted and created an awesome “gentleman’s” feel for part of the evening. The ONE MOMENT that will never leave his mind is when Heather was walked down the aisle and how gorgeous and amazing she looked will forever be remembered. 

Hers: Hands-down my favorite part of the day was being walked down the aisle by my father and stepfather and getting to see Stephen for the first time. I have never felt so much love and was so overcome with emotion and gratitude. Seeing all the people you love in the same place and there to support you and the love of your life is an out of body experience. I often find myself smiling when thinking back to this moment. It's one I will cherish for a lifetime.

Photography: wild{whim}design+photography | Ceremony Venue: Hummingbird Nest Ranch | Reception Venue: Hummingbird Nest Ranch | Event Planning: anais catalina designs | Floral: Tustin florist | DJ: Vox DJs | Photo Booth: Gala booth | Catering: confetti events and catering | Rentals: Confetti Events and Catering | Linens: confetti events and catering | Hair: Blush by M. Marie | Makeup: Blush by M. Marie | Wedding Dress: Pronovias Atelier | Groom's Attire: Hugo Boss | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Submitted via: Matchology