Julia + Nate’s Dark & Moody Wedding at Colloca Estate Winery

There’s something so romantic about a winery wedding, and the dark and moody wedding that Julia and Nate planned at Colloca Estate Winery was the perfect mix of romantic, edgy, and uniquely special. From the moment we arrived on site, we felt a sense of excitement in the air.

While the girls finished getting ready, we took Julia’s dress and other details to the event space to snap some pictures. I absolutely loved her black wedding dress, and it looked stunning from the balcony with crystals dripping from the chandelier overhead.

When we arrived back to the bridal suite, Julia was ready to get dressed. Her daughters and her mom were all there, and the photos I grabbed of them together just showed how much love and support was flowing through that room. Meanwhile, Nate was downstairs in the reception space taking some posed getting ready photos.

I set up the first look on the backside of Colloca winery in a little area surrounded by red hydrangeas that perfectly matched their wedding colors. Julie and Nate were nervous, but it was so sweet to see those anxious feelings wash away the moment they saw each other. They took a few minutes to read private vows to each other before their oldest daughter joined them. The best part about doing a wedding first look is you can get family photos out of the way before the ceremony. I found a spot overlooking the water for their family portraits, then Julia and Nate hid away as guests started to arrive.

The ceremony was picturesque. All the red accents and Julia’s black wedding dress really popped against the lush backdrop. They said their vows, exchanged their rings, and officially became joined as one. Their daughters’ reactions to them getting married was priceless!

If there’s one thing I’ll always remember about Julia and Nate’s wedding day, it’s all of the dip kisses. The ceremony ended with an epic dip kiss, then they did another one at end of the aisle. The guests loved it!

During the cocktail hour, we took photos of the wedding party, then everyone transitioned into the reception space for entrances and the first dance. The Maid of Honor, Best Man, and Julia’s dad all gave toasts before a delicious dinner. After Julia and Nate were done eating, we snuck outside for some Bride and Groom photos around the property. We took full advantage of the winery vibes, making sure to take some photos among the rows of grapes, under the pergola, and with the water in the background. The sun was setting, creating a gorgeous richness in the sky that I loved.

When we returned to the reception, dinner was over and it was time for the parent dances, followed by a very special dance with Nate and his two daughters. Watching the three of them spin around the dance floor made everyone emotional. Julia changed into a white reception dress, and the rest of the evening was full of wedding festivities, including a cake cutting and a dance choreographed by their daughter. How sweet!

There was a sparkler exit and another dip kiss, which was the perfect way to end the night! Thank you Julia and Nate for asking me to join your special day. I wish you and your family so much happiness!

Venue: Colloca Estate Winery
DJ: Rayner Sound Entertainment
Dress: Spybaby Bridal
HMU: Amanda Rose
Tux/Suits: Generation Tux
Decor & Photo Area: Glam Mamas’ Decorating LLC
Florals: Ling’s Moment