One of our most memorable weddings of the year has to be Noem and Dave’s Arista Winery wedding in Healdsburg. This wedding was special because it focused on Noem’s roots. She grew up in Thailand, and they incorporated many Thai elements into the day – from the water blessing during the ceremony, to the traditional Thai attire the couple and wedding party wore for the morning. It was so inspiring to witness wedding traditions from another culture at this beautiful backdrop in Healdsburg.

Noem and Dave were introduced by a Nobel Prize winner (and apparently a matchmaker as well!). They had known each other for many years, and eventually a relationship began to blossom. It was apparent from the toasts we heard that night, that when these two got together, they truly came alive. They were filled with energy and radiated joy. It is hard not to smile when thinking about them.

Many of Noem’s relatives flew over from Thailand for the wedding. They brought the beautiful gowns that the girls wore – helping each girl pin on her robes and get ready for the wedding.

Noem’s son walked her down the aisle. It has been so sweet to witness not only the relationship between Noem and her son, but between Dave and his new son. They’ve truly become a family and the love they share is apparent.

During the ceremony, Noem and Dave exchanged vows. It was so touching – and impressive – to hear Dave speak his vows from the heart (with no paper to remind him of what to say). I loved watching Noem pull out her glasses to read her declaration of love to Dave. The couple took a seat at the table as Dave’s sister placed a rope over their head – tying the couple together for the water blessing. The elders each addressed the couple, sprinkling water over their hands and wishing them well.

After the ceremony, Noem surprised Dave at cocktail hour with a singer and guitarist that they had fallen in love with during a wine tasting in Healdsburg. They sang a song that was special to the couple – it was such a sweet moment.

For dinner, guests made their way up the hill at Arista and were welcomed to an all white Thai inspired wedding reception. The florals were tropical and placed in modern vessels. The couple changed into traditional western wedding attire for a second look. Noem and Dave were celebrated through numerous toasts. The key takeaway: these two are better together – and bring so much joy with them wherever they go. They light up a room and truly make the world a better place. Their kindness and generosity impacts so many hearts. I agree wholeheartedly!

Noem and Dave – a “thank you” doesn’t come close. Thank you for inviting us into your lives and allowing us to walk alongside you throughout this journey. You’ve opened our eyes to new cultures and traditions. We feel so grateful for the opportunities you’ve provided and I hope we have the opportunity to continue our relationship for years to come. Thank you, thank you.

Planning & Design: L’Relyea Events // Venue: Arista Winery // Floral Design: Julie Stevens Design // Hair & Makeup: Beauty by Jasmine Chan // Catering: Chef Adair // Cake: Costeaux Bakery // DJ: Boutique DJs // Rentals: Bright Event Rentals // Cocktail Hour Musicians: Monica da Silva // Transportation: Pure Luxury Transportation // Photography: The Ganeys //

Are you having an Arista Winery wedding in Healdsburg and looking for a wedding photographer? We would love to be considered! Send us a message!

We are husband and wife California Bay area wedding photographers. We strive to capture joyful moments. We use film and digital cameras to capture your wedding with a timeless, fine art approach.