An Elegant Rose Gold Wedding at Rancho Valencia in Rancho Santa Fe, California
Patricia Chong (30 and a fashion publicist) and Christopher Kolar’s (30 and a project manager) wedding was all about creating unique experiences for their families and friends and pulling off a day that captured the energy of love. “While it might sound crazy to focus on everyone else on a day dedicated to the two of us, we knew that we would enjoy the day most if everyone else was having a great time,” says Patricia. “It was also important for us to keep everything authentic to who we are.”
Rancho Valencia in Rancho Santa Fe, California offered an elegant, yet relaxed setting for the day to unfold, with seemingly endless rooms and event spaces, both indoors and out, that allowed Patricia and Christopher to make each and every moment feel unique. “We fell in love with Rancho Valencia due to its relaxed, intimate nature and it is a tennis resort, which a sport that we bonded over and played together as friends,” says Patricia.
The day started with an outdoor ceremony, in which Patricia and Christopher exchanged heartfelt vows they’d written themselves under a stately pergola draped in a lush garland of eucalyptus. “We also honored our parents by giving each of them bows and hugs,” says Patricia.
The reception felt like a whimsical rose gold dream with the Terrace Ballroom and Patio dressed to the nines with rose gold trimmings, vintage-inspired dinnerware, lush centerpieces overflowing with full ivory and pink blooms and brightly lit candles in glass candlesticks. Miniature bottles of rose gold champagne doubled as escort cards and guided guests to their seats, while Patricia’s favorite Diptyque candles filled the venue with a beautiful scent. “We created multiple unique areas that guests could experience with us. We love dancing, so we wanted to craft a high energy and fun experience on the dance floor,” says Patricia. “Whereas the Terrace, right outside the reception room, was quiet and the cool June night lent itself to intimate conversations with guests.” A corridor illuminated with candles led guests to the wine cellar where they could strike a pose at the couple’s photo booth and treat themselves to a cool, sweet treat at the ice cream bar.
A tip for the taking from Patricia and Christopher: “The wedding is as much about your guests as it is about you as a couple. Like most things in life it's about finding the right balance and harmony between two things. So, make sure you think about the flow of the night and guest experience as much as you do about your dress and flowers. The more they enjoy it, the more you will too!”