(Run Away With Me)

Wedding Inspiration: A Decadent Foodie Affair at a Sonoma Vineyard

Nov 28, 2019

Monica McNulty and Joe Kovecses were introduced by a mutual friend who knew, as they did immediately, that two were a perfect match. On New Year's Eve, Kovecses popped the question when the fireworks went off.

It was decided that an engagement that begins with fireworks should end with them as well: The wedding date was set for July 5th in sunny Sonoma.

Both lawyers with busy schedules, the bride and groom left much of the heavy lifting to the wedding planner but selected a few details to oversee themselves. For McNulty, it was the palette and decor; Kovecses led the charge on food and music.

They wanted a venue that would exude a sense of elegance and relaxed sophistication—where they could dress up and feel glamorous but also have fun. As an intimate celebration, they welcomed guests with a barbecue and barrel tasting in the garden of a nearby vineyard.

On the big day, McNulty wore a low-back gown and Kovecses sported a tux. Personal details were peppered throughout the venue including photos of the couple's families and pets, custom name cards, and a custom invitation suite showcasing the venue. For the ceremony, they kept it simple with white chairs, rose petals down the aisle, and the vineyard as their backdrop. Traditions included heartfelt readings from her best friends through lots of tears.

After the ceremony, the newlyweds took off to capture their first moments together alone in the vineyards before popping into the barrel room for the reception. With wall-to-wall barrels and string lights overhead, it was the perfect setting for an intimate dinner. At a single long table lined with a eucalyptus garland, blush roses, pillar candles, and beaded plates, guests dined on West Coast oysters, bacon wrapped dates, halibut and filet, plus local organic vegetables. Following the feast, they made their way outside to enjoy the sunset and get the party started on the dance floor. The two concluded with a grand exit immersed in a glow stick send off.