It’s not every day that Bambi and his mom crash a wedding, but they did just that when Monica and Phil tied the knot at Sequoyah Country Club, a historic golf club in the Oakland hills. Their visit was just one of the many delights that made our couple’s joyous day even more incredible.
Everyone was in great spirits for the ceremony, which featured a canopy (built by Monica’s dad and aunts) set against a verdant backdrop. The ring bearer was especially amped and tore down the grassy aisle (a lollipop awaited him at the end), only to trip, tumble onto his back, and lose a shoe. He was ok but would later repeat the move in the same spot during the recessional!
Unlike their cute yet stoic ring bearer, Monica and Phil managed to stay on their feet and keep both shoes on despite her teary-eyed entrance. Their vows were humorous and touching, the reading was thought-provoking, and the unity sand ceremony was performed without any unnecessary spillage.
Shortly after they said, “I do,” a garrulous gang of wild turkeys trotted across the emerald green hillocks, and then several deer sauntered across the scene. We caught two of them enjoying a sunlit snack before we hopped on a golf cart for a harrowing ride to the top of one of the course’s many hills. There, gorgeous views of the sun setting over the bay awaited us.
Incidentally, Monica looked stunning in a strapless Grecian-style gown, while Phil rocked a gray suit with a sea-green tie and custom leather suspenders. Their day was filled with other thoughtful touches, including hand-punched escort cards and programs, mini potted thank-you succulents, and sliders and tacos that came out towards the end of the night. We loved that they had a ukelele player, who even accompanied Monica’s aunt as she sang a special surprise song during Monica’s first dance with her father. The toasts were revealing (hello, “Typhoon Phil” and “Grady twin” Monica!) and made people laugh so hard that they cried.
One of the more unexpected moments of the evening came when Monica (normally unassuming) nonchalantly dabbed cake on Phil’s face as they were sharing their first piece. A cake fight almost ensued, but cooler heads prevailed. Unfortunately for Phil, this wouldn’t be the only time he’d be a target. All day we wondered if someone might jump in the country club’s sparkling, inviting pool, and many guests joked that they might. We got our answer shortly after the wedding was officially over. As they were hanging out by the pool, Phil’s new brother-in-law Andy (the one who designed all their signage) generously asked Phil for his phone so he could take a photo of him. Once the phone changed hands, Andy shoved Phil into the pool.
Here’s how their special day went down.
Bride’s dress & jewelry: J.Crew
Bride’s shoes: Bhldn
Rings: Tal Ron Diamonds
Groom’s suit, tie & shoes: J.Crew
Hair: Shimeko at Marquee Salon
Flowers: The Pollen Mill
Wedding coordinator: Luxe Premier Events
Caterer: Sequoyah Country Club
Ukelele player: Ukulenny
Desserts: Indie Cakes & Pastries
DJ: Nazareno Brothers
Photobooth: Truebooth (http://www.truephotobooth.com/pages/home)
Bird cages: Michaels
Canvas prints: Shutterfly
Wedding invitations: Wedding Paper Divas (coupons here!)
Succulents: San Francisco Flower Mart
Wild About You Photography 