Taylor and Michael wanted the intimacy of an elopement yet the sophistication of a large wedding. This Eureka Valley couple opted for their home away from home, Sonoma Valley. Gundlach Bundschu proved the perfect choice. Dreamers and Heroes, based in Glen Ellen, used their intimate knowledge of the valley to find a location that was not in the regular directories. "So many people would never be able to find these nooks and crannies that are all over wine country unless you lived here. That's where we can really craft our events and offer you more than you can find yourself on Google", said Melanie King, owner and lead designer.

No florist was hired; instead, the guests strolled the vineyard in the early morning to find plants and trees they thought were interesting. "Nothing that can't be put in the local compost" was the rule. In contrast, the menus on galvanized steel spoke to the contemporary side of both grooms -- a juxtaposition between the organic and the crafted. Hydrangea leaves adorned the table under the contemporary flatware. Cabernet grapes fresh off the vine were scattered about, soft wood tones, neutral color palettes, and a touch of vintage glassware resonated the fantastic setting that included an architectural gem not often seen by visitors to the winery.

The original Bundschu residence is an Arts and Crafts style home by architect Albert Farr, the same architect who designed Jack London's Wolf House. "We are so fortunate to have found this. We wanted to feel like we were all at home here, and with the views and the house, we could not ask for more". And for guests to take home, Taylor and Michael decked the bar with their favorite books and a note asking guests to take one home with a favor bookmark, "to talk about the next time we meet."

SOURCES:

Event Planner:  Dreamers and Heroes
Reception Venue:  Gundlach Bundschu Winery
Officiant:  Gay Napa Sonoma Getaways
Photographer:   douglasthompsonphoto.com