Wedding Inspiration: Chic, Rustic Vibes With DIY Flair on a Marin Cattle Ranch

Feb 16, 2018

When the bridal party flies through golden fields in the back of a pickup truck to the ceremony, you know it's going to be good.

Laura Holzbaur and Tim Obert lived in the same dorm building their freshmen year, and as with any good students, got to know each other over an assortment of parties. However, it wasn't until senior year that the sparks began to fly. The two started dating right before graduation and they spent their first year together from opposite ends of California—Holzbaur in Marin and Obert in San Diego.

"The proposal came as a complete and utter shock to me," says Holzbaur. "I was so surprised!"

For their second year in a row, they were on a trip to Tulum, Mexico having dinner at their fav spot on the beach. Afterwards, Obert suggested a walk along the sand, and as they stepped off the restaurant deck, he got down on one knee.

"He was smart enough to ask a couple next to us to photograph it and they did us one better with an incredible video that I will treasure forever!"

Holzbaur knew she wanted an outdoor, casual, barn wedding in the hills of Marin county where she grew up. The two—who now live in San Francisco—chose Cow Track Ranch. An actual, operating cattle ranch, the ambiance, with all its grit, dust and creaks, made for the ideal rustic backdrop. Going beyond style though, this place is the real deal—horsewoman Melissa Daniels, raised on the family farm, rides in, a true cowgirl in her pickup truck, to decorate and coordinate for the occasion.

A neutral palette of pale pink roses, a burlap aisle, wood accents, and lots of greenery blended seamlessly with the rugged landscape. Different cities were used as table markers—memories from their relationship including Santa Cruz where they met, and places they've traveled. On each plate sat indigo napkins, which Holzbaur tie-dyed herself to add a pop of color.

The lovebirds exchanged vows in private before the ceremony; and then Holzbaur's brother walked her down the aisle in place of their late father. From there, everyone headed to the barn for the party to begin. Personalized brews from Seven Still Distillery (which Obert co-owns) flowed, semi-embarrassing speeches were made, and dancing went on through the night with Holzbaur being the last on the floor. No one even noticed the full moon rising over the rolling hills.