When I first received Sujing and Zhiyao’s email about their Harvest Inn wedding I had to do a double take. We had just moved to California a week earlier – was it possible that we were already receiving inquiries for Napa weddings? Somehow – yes! Sujing used to live in Seattle, and one of her friends attended a wedding we photographed there earlier this summer and was kind enough to pass our names along.

Sujing and Zhiyao have known each other for more than eight years. They met in China and came to the US for school and quickly became close friends. Although they were separated by distance at times (he was working in Seattle while she worked in Shanghai) they decided to get married when they were reconnected in Seattle. The number eight is a lucky one in Chinese culture – so Sujing and Zhiyao were excited to get married on August 18th, 2018. It was actually the most popular wedding date of the year!

When I arrived at Harvest Inn for the wedding, I was greeted by the most charming buildings and gardens. Tucked away behind a forest of evergreens, Sujing was getting ready in the Mountain View Room – and that it was! Looking out on the balcony you could see rows and rows of vineyards and epic mountains in the background. I was in heaven!

Sujing wore a sweetheart ballgown for the wedding. She carried a hydrangea bouquet with accents of greenery. Her hair was loosely curled. She and Zhiyao met in the redwoods for their first look. He was so excited to see her for the first time! We made our way around the property for portraits before the ceremony.

The ceremony at Harvest Inn was set looking out over the vineyard and mountains. It could not have been more stunning in the afternoon light. The bridesmaids lined up next to Sujing in their seafoam blue dresses. Zhiyao’s groomsmen stood to the side in their navy suits. The ceremony was intimate and meaningful. Sujing and Zhiyao declared personal vows before exchanging rings.

The reception was held outside under strings of bistro lights. On either side of the recption were buildings covered in vines that made for such a romantic feeling. Two rows of tables were set with florals and garlands. All of the guests watched the sun set over the winery behind Harvest Inn.

As the sun went down, Sujing, Zhiyaho and I snuck away for a few more portraits. Sujing had put on a beaded gown from BHLDN that could not have been more beautiful. It was such a stunning day and the perfect introduction to California!

Sujing and Zhiyao – thank you so much for including me in your wedding! It was a pleasure getting to know you both and celebrating your marriage. You are so sweet, and I know you have a lovely life ahead of you in the future!

Venue & Catering: Harvest Inn // Officiant: Eileen Lynch // DJ: Sonny Pangilinan // Videographer: DeNoise Studios // Day of Coordination: AR Weddings N Events //Hair and Makeup: Lei // Wedding Dress: Luly Yang // Reception Dress: BHLDN // Shoes: Jimmy Choo // Florist: Lady Marry // Jewelry: Ben Bridge // Rings: Tiffany & Co // Bridesmaids attire: Vera Wang White // Groomsmen attire: Men’s Warehouse // Groom’s accessories: Hyde Park // 

Are you having a Harvest Inn wedding and looking for a photographer? Send us a message – we would love to be a part of your adventure!