Sometimes, weddings come with delightful surprises, and this one was no exception! I had the pleasure of working with Gabriela’s mom as she sought help for her daughter’s big day—can’t say this is the first time a mom has booked me! Gabriela and Michael chose the enchanting Allied Arts Guild in Menlo Park for their celebration, and let me tell you, it was the perfect backdrop.
The gardens at Allied Arts Guild are a photographer’s dream, filled with intimate nooks that create magical moments. Gabriela wanted the natural beauty of the gardens to shine without a lot of fuss, so she opted out of traditional ceremony pieces. Instead, they allowed the lush surroundings to speak for themselves—a brilliant choice!
For the reception, a family friend crafted stunning natural centerpieces that beautifully complemented the garden vibe. The styling was simple yet elegant, reflecting the couple’s down-to-earth spirit.
Now, let’s talk about the vintage touches! Gabriela and Michael added a playful spin to their celebration with an adorable vintage Volkswagen bus serving as a photo booth. It was a hit! And to top it off, Gabriela’s own vintage car whisked them away at the end of the night—talk about a grand exit!
What struck me most about Gabriela and Michael was their wonderfully laid-back attitude. They were anything but stressed; instead, they radiated joy, eager to simply enjoy the day with their loved ones. Their “chill” vibes created the perfect atmosphere for a fun and memorable celebration.
Vendor credits:
Planner: Perfectly Planned
Makeup: Bride did her own
Venue: Allied Arts Guild
Caterer: Cafe Wisteria
Harpist: Bay Area String & Bass
DJ: Party Ardi
Photo Booth: DAS Bus
Photographer: Stephanie Klotz Photography