1. Real Weddings

Jennifer & Stephen: A Traditional Wedding in Paso Robles, CA

Jennifer and Stephen didn’t battle over typical wedding planning stressors like the guest list, the budget, or the hors d’oeuvre menu. They had larger

Jennifer and Stephen didn’t battle over typical wedding planning stressors like the guest list, the budget, or the hors d’oeuvre menu. They had larger issues on their minds: Just days after Stephen proposed, the former army captain was sent to Iraq to fight in Operation Iraqi Freedom II. The Bride Jennifer Montague, 33, realtor The Groom Stephen Clark, 35, national hotel sales manager The Date October 29 During Stephen's 15-month deployment, Jennifer kept herself occupied by pulling together all the details for their intimate autumn celebration at a Tuscan-style bed-and-breakfast.

The groom wore a simple white orchid on his lapel.
The party took place under a large tent in the courtyard of the bed-and-breakfast, where bright citron-colored linens and unique floral arrangements enhanced the beauty of the outdoor space. Stations served up eclectic cuisine like risotto, tossed-to-order salads, grilled leg of lamb with red wine mustard sauce, and gourmet cheese, fruit, and olives.
The Couple
The newlyweds danced with friends and family on the rustic flagstone patio for hours and then sent everyone on their way with a flavorful favor: bottles of Chapel Hill brand olive oil, made from olives grown on the property where they tied the knot.
Rustic elements, like lavender and wheat, were combined with roses and orchids for a natural yet sophisticated look.
Jennifer and Stephen's two nieces served as flower girls dressed in ivory floor-length dresses.
Instead of traditional white or ivory, Jennifer glammed up her look with champagne-colored shoes.
The centerpieces on each table varied, with some including low vases packed with green button mums.
Rustic elements, like lavender and wheat, were combined with roses and orchids for a natural yet sophisticated look.
The couple married at Chapel Hill, a quaint Spanish-style chapel filled with rustic benches, wood beams, colorful tile work, and stained glass. Classical acoustic guitar music infused the ceremony, which was officiated by a chaplain who had served with Stephen in Iraq. A reading from The Velveteen Rabbit and handwritten vows further personalized the nuptials.
Jennifer wore her hair in a low chignon with side-swept bangs.
The Traditions