A Couple Put the Beauty of Napa Valley on Display in the Most Effortlessly Cinematic Way
Like many couples these days, Kristin Macdougald and Zach Lee’s storybook romance started on a dating app, and because of the duo’s mutual connections in Dallas, Texas, they describe feeling strangely familiar with one another from the start. The two fell in love, and after spending several beautiful years together, Zach took Kristin on a surprise trip to Santa Barbara, California, one of Kristin’s favorite places. While on the bluffs of Butterfly Beach, Zach got down on one knee and asked Kristin to marry him. “The proposal was thoughtful, deeply personal and beautifully understated, which felt very true to us,” the bride says.
Their September wedding took place at the luxurious and picturesque Estate Yountville in the Napa Valley wine region. Not only did the to-be-weds feel like the venue was whimsical and transportive, but they also loved how Yountville had a rare beauty that was full of character. To complement the space’s vibe, Kristin and Zach went with romantic details for their decor. “We intentionally stayed away from anything overly rustic. Instead, we leaned into creamy whites, soft greens, muted blue linens and candlelight that felt true to the setting,” Kristin says.
For the outdoor ceremony, the decor naturally enhanced the environment instead of overwhelming it, which means the details were simple, yet breathtaking. “Our florist made a custom altar enveloped in white hydrangeas and greenery that appeared to emerge from the vineyard itself, extending into the guest seating in a way that felt immersive and unexpected,” Kristin says. Transitioning into the reception, warmth and natural textures were at the forefront. Lamps with pleated shades, taper candles, amber-colored glassware and hydrangea bouquets graced each oak table. “One of our favorite design decisions was repurposing the ceremony florals into the reception, allowing the arrangements to take on a second life across the tablescape. Their movement felt organic and full, adding softness and dimension to the evening,” Kristin says.
Other highlights that the couple said made the celebration special was the string quartet that performed “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley as Kristin walked down the aisle, the custom candle favors, which also served as escort cards and had a Napa-inspired crest and personal note, and dancing all night with their loved ones. “Looking back, the feeling of joy, being completely immersed in the moment and surrounded by the people we love most is what stays with me,” Kristin says.