Wine Country Wedding – Alexander Rubin Photography

Amanda and Maneesh – Auberge Du Soleil

Can you say COLOR?!

Among the many festival-related rituals in a Hindi’s life, weddings are by far the most extensive of ceremonies. Laughter, vibrancy and fun were the recurring themes of Amanda & Maneesh’s wedding on this gorgeous day in Napa Valley, and let’s just say they know how to party!

Auberge Du Soleil was the perfect setting for this wedding. This venue embodies the natural beauty of wine country, but with a luxurious and modern twist. The space is intimate yet has the capacity to host larger parties if needed.

After the heavenly ceremony was over, the reception was held indoors in the function room that provided a cozy and romantic environment for the celebration. The sweethearts were welcomed into each other’s family and shared a fabulous dinner thanks to the incredible culinary talents of the Michelin star restaurant at Auberge.

As you scroll through this beautiful wedding day, I hope you enjoy this gorgeous couple as much as I did – their smiles and their joy are contagious. Amanda and Maneesh, thank you so much for allowing me to capture this incredible time of your life. It was such an honor to be a part of it.

Amy and Andrew – Gardner Ranch, Carmel

I have been fortunate enough in my profession that I’ve traveled to many beautiful areas, but few hold a special place in my heart like Carmel-by-the-Sea.

AKA Carmel, this quaint town is located on the breathtaking coast of Northern California in Monterey County and is renowned for it’s food, wine and natural scenery that will take your breath away.

When Amy and Andrew first contacted me from their home in Texas about photographing their wedding in Carmel, I couldn’t be more excited. The venue of choice was Gardner Ranch, a charming property located on the banks of the Carmel River. Twenty-four acres of lush meadows and majestic oaks, while being walking distance to shops and restaurants made it the perfect venue for a destination wedding.

Every detail about Amy and Andrew’s day matched the mood and ambiance of Gardner Ranch to a tee. Elegant and charming yet rustic – with a big dose of fun and laughter at every stage of the day. For example, just look at these bridal party pictures… they were having a blast and it showed. When you have a group of people that are this relaxed and focusing on what’s important, it’s not hard to get great photos.

This vibe carried well into the day and evening. It’s clear that these two live life to the fullest and are so loved by everyone around them. And, they sure know how to throw a party!

I could go on and on about this magical day, but I’ll let the pictures do the talking.

I can’t thank wedding planner Andre Roberts enough for putting together such a seamless and beautiful day and a fabulous team.

</a </a </a

Nicole and Josh – Landmark Winery

ˈlan(d)ˌmärk/ a change marking an important stage or turning point in something.

The turning point on this special day was one of a beautiful union of two families from Minnesota. Nicole and Josh chose Landmark Winery as their destination wedding venue, and what a venue this is! With breathtaking views of Sugarloaf Ridge, Landmark Vineyards is truly an incredible location to tie the knot. Nestled at the base of the Mayacamas mountains, this spectacular 20-acre property boasts historical agricultural roots and rustic charm that is perfect for an outdoor ceremony or an intimate reception. The dramatic hills, working vineyard, well-tended gardens, and fountains create an enchanting background that makes for one of my most favorite Sonoma wedding locations to date. There is even a cottage and a guest house on the property for those wishing to spend the night.

And the wines, you ask? “Less is more” is the overriding philosophy, according to winemaker Eric Stern. He believes that “the less the wine is manipulated, the more flavors and aromas remain to enjoy”. Food-friendly, fruit-forward Chardonnay is Landmark’s flagship wine, along with Pinot Noir and Syrah.

It’s always a delight to collaborate with Lindsay from Oh La La Weddings, and it was so beautiful to see Nicole and Josh’s day unfold. From the heartfelt, hand-written letter from bride to groom, to the guests getting their groove on after the first dance, the emotion and design of the day were first class. It was an honor to not only witness, but document the love this couple has for each other.

Nicole and Josh, thank you again for allowing me to be part of your big day. I wish you all the love and happiness, along with many more sunset like the one we enjoyed on your wedding day!

Auberge Du Soleil Wedding | Napa Valley

Auberge Du Soleil is one of my favorite wedding venues in Napa Valley, especially for more intimate ceremonies like Lauren and Dan’s. Lauren and Dan said I do with all of Napa Valley behind them along with their closest family and friends gathered around. It was a beautiful ceremony followed by a delicious Michelin stared meal and very fun dance party.

Russian River Wedding – Nikki & Graeme

There are so many things to love about The Russian River wine region of Sonoma. The sweeping views, the buttery chardonnay wines, and of course the wedding of Nikki and Graeme. Their wedding took place at the Winner’s Circle at Vine Hill Ranch. This magnificent private estate sits on 60 acres of vineyards growing pinot and chardonnay grapes, and boasts 360 views of panoramic views of the vineyards and surrounding valley. Typically weddings are not allowed on this property, but our groom’s family owns this impressive private estate, which made it the perfect choice for their intimate wedding with 50 of their beloved family and friends. Even though they live in Cincinnati, they share a love of traveling, food and wine, and of course the California wine country. The Northern California weather couldn’t have been more perfect for their wedding day, and the images showcase not only the property, but the love they share for each other, and the affection their loved ones have for them.

Farm to Table Sonoma Vineyard Wedding

Karin & Vincent | Wedding | Durell Vineyard | Sonoma, CA

He waited 56 year to find his bride. She survived cancer, raised two great kids on her own, and then she fell in love in Sonoma. So it was only fitting they were married at Durell Vineyard in the wine-country where their love blossomed. From the gorgous details to the tastiest bites it was the perfect wine-country wedding! Not only was the dinner grown by local producers, everyone was drinking local too. The Rose and Pinot Noir were grown in the same vineyard at Durell where the dinner was held. Take a look at their wedding below. Congratulations Karin and Vincent!

Sonoma Wedding Photographer at Durell Vineyard_0001-8

Jacuzzi Winery Wedding | Sonoma, CA

Darby & Colin | Wedding | Jacuzzi Family Vineyards and Cline Villa | Sonoma, CA

The first time I ever visited Jacuzzi Winery I said to myself “this is a perfect place for a wedding!” The location is gorgeous, the light is amazing and their wines are even better. Darby and Colin fell in love with the venue as well on trips to Sonoma from their home in Seattle. Friend and family flew in from all over the country to help celebrate their destination wedding. Darby and Colin are such down to earth people and so much fun to work with. They also have some really funny friends, I can’t remember laughing that hard during toasts in a long time. The wedding day started with the ladies getting ready at the Cline Villa. After an emotional first look we headed over to Jacuzzi Winery for the ceremony and reception. An al fresco dinner under twinkling lights in the courtyard, was followed by an amazing party in the barrel room. Does it get any better than that?
Take a look at my favorite moments from their day below. Congratulations Darby and Colin!

Paradise Ridge Winery Wedding

Ali & Blake | Paradise Ridge Winery | Wedding

Viansa Winery Wedding | Sonoma, CA

Lorilee & Brad | Wedding | Viansa Winery | Sonoma, CA

Clients who choose wine country weddings usually have a few things in common. Of course, they love wine. They also savor food, and relish a good party. Lorilee & Brad are certainly no exception. Their wedding at Viansa Winery in Sonoma was utterly breathtaking. The romance, fun and joy of their union was an honor to witness. The entire weekend was filled with love, wine, delicious food and celebration. From the rehearsal dinner at Black Stallion Winery in Napa, the candle lit ceremony, and the decadent party at Viansa Winery, it was a perfect wedding weekend. Congratulations Lorilee and Brad!