The results are here! California Wedding Day's annual awards program, Best of 2024, honors the most innovative and creative talent in the wedding industry across the state. The winners were chosen by their peers through an open voting process held online and were revealed at our Best of 2024 Awards Gala on Tuesday, May 21th at The Majestic. View winners from all regions here.
Here are California Wedding Day's Editor's Choice winners.
Inspired by the iconic beauty of both South Asian and English gardens, this design nestled in the serene garden house at Filoli, is a beautiful blending of cultures. European-style garden roses and tulips juxtaposed with structured South Asian varieties such as palms and orchids are layered throughout the design. Unique attributes include the ceremony where the floral arrangements are intermingled with seating and the verdant reception table which features a curving table runner comprised of traditional weaves along the table and overflows onto the ground. Delicate leaf-embellished linens are layered with patterned Juliska plates topped with ornate menus featuring a tasseled, hand-carved Ganesha. The bride’s stylish white henna incorporates blooms from both cultures and appears as if it is an extension of her gown. “The white henna is a beautiful alternative for brides who want to give a nod to their Indian cultural heritage while staying within a white color scheme,” says Rebecca Foster of Indigo Event Design. See more about the wedding and the entire vendor list here.
Bridal Attire: Nicole Bridal (boutique); VAMA Designs (lehenga); Jeshka Body Art (henna); Jimmy Choo; Bella Belle Shoes | Cake: Jamie Cake SF | Floral: Selva Floral | Hair & Makeup: Air Hair and Makeup | Groom’s Attire: Friar Tux | Photography: Tara Hodges Photography | Rentals: Theoni Collection | Stationery & Signage: Inquisited | Venue: Filoli | Videography: Love Story Films
When two talented forces unite, in this case Autumn Cake Design and Wild Heart Events, the creativity overflows. Hence, this stunning confection that doubles as a centerpiece. Taking a cue from the menu design, the vanilla cake curves across the table and is adorned with colorful blossoms.
Photography: Autumn Qiu
Autumn Qiu
An example of creativity at its peak, this dramatic ceremony design evokes cathedral windows to set a breathtaking scene at La Lomita Ranch. Thousands of colorful blooms line the 120-foot-long wooden aisle and adorn the majestic altar, the latter of which perfectly frames the picturesque lake and sloping hills of San Luis Obispo.
Florals: Noonan's Wine Country Designs | Photography: Ashley Ludaescher Photography | Rentals: Avenue Twelve, Bright Event Rentals, Theoni Collection | Venue: La Lomita Ranch
Photographer Katie Ruther captured Erika and Matthew on their one-year anniversary for a heartfelt photo shoot. The couple donned their wedding attire and headed to Santa Monica Mountains in Malibu to document this first season of their lives together. “When we took photos of their love that day, remembering their weddings vows not too long ago, I was overwhelmed in every sense of the way,” says Ruther. “The love between them, the way they look at each other, the warmth in their touch, the mountains they’ve overcome, everything moved me. We stayed at this spot as long as possible before the sun disappeared behind the mountain, and it was one of the most sacred evenings I’ve had.”
All the beautiful details are present - and perfect: hand-torn deckle-edged paper, subtle pastel shades and delicate florals.
Photography: Sophie Epton | Wedding Planning & Design: Amorology
Blair and Seth Owen’s wedding was an extravagant four-day weekend affair in Calistoga that had beautiful, personal details woven throughout. The impeccable design was a collaboration between RSBP Events and Cole Drake Events. The extended celebration began with an apres-ski party at Tamber Bey Vineyards, followed the next evening by a wine-tasting rehearsal dinner at the Four Seasons Napa Valley. For the main event, the couple tied the knot at Double R Ranch, a beautiful property surrounded by acres of vineyards and horse stables. The bride, who plays polo, made a grand entrance by riding in on her beloved horse, Mikey, and then walking down the floral-lined aisle while a gospel choir sang. The elegant equestrian theme continued in the details, such as the ceremony program, the escort card wall, menu cards and the hit of the reception, a luxurious Hermès photo booth. Gathered along winding tables filled with abundant floral centerpieces, guests dined on filet mignon and endless espresso martinis. To cap off the festivities, the bride’s family surprised the couple with a spectacular drone light show—which even included images of Blair’s beloved dog, Ralphie. See more about the wedding and the entire vendor list here.
Florals: Amy Burke Design | Photography: Chris J. Evans | Venue: Double R Ranch | Videography: Voilá Cinematic | Wedding Planning & Event Design | Cole Drake Events with RSBP Event Planning & Public Relations
