A Romantic, Vintage-Inspired Wedding at a Private Residence in California

Elizabeth Holzheu and Wesley Herr got married at the Old Mission Santa Inés in Solvang, California, then had a personalized backyard reception at the bride’s parents’ home. “The theme was something we called ‘upscale rustic French chic,’” Elizabeth says. “I wanted the setting to remind guests of a fabulous villa in Provence with rustic elements that looked luxe at the same time.” The bride wore a lace and silk organza dress with a halter top and trumpet fit, and carried a romantic bouquet with coral and yellow garden roses, hot pink spray roses, ranunculus, citrine hellebores, snapdragons, dahlias and greenery. The fashion-forward groom rocked three looks throughout the day: a classic black tuxedo, a navy pin-dot jacket with contrasting black lapels and a dusty rose jacket. “He was so snazzy. It was amazing to see everyone’s reactions when he walked out,” Elizabeth says. The day started with a Catholic ceremony at Old Mission Santa Inés, where the couple kept the décor simple to highlight the mission's historic charm. The reception brought out personalized touches, including a fabric flower wall with a hand-painted sign. A color palette of blush pink, champagne and black shined through the tent and table settings. “I wanted to have the romantic feeling of a candlelit dinner,” Elizabeth says. “The linens were gorgeous ivory raw silk on the round tables. On the exposed wood farm tables, we used rose gold laser-cut leather table runners. It really could not have turned out better.” The dining tables also featured vintage glassware, brass candle sticks and pink centerpieces. To end the night, guests ate a showstopping tiered cake with gold foil details, flower accents and large topper with the couple’s last name.

Our favorite #MakeTradition Moment: “I had promised my parents when I was a little girl that I would be married in a church, and I am so happy that we ended up doing so. It made the ceremony really special, even though my husband comes from a nonreligious background,” Elizabeth says. Most of the guests had never attended a Catholic wedding before, but they were able to appreciate the intimacy and seriousness of what we were really doing.”