Bradley + Michael

Bradley and Michael’s Vineyard Wedding at a Private Estate in Napa Valley

Private Vineyard

Napa, California

The best part about Bradley and Michael’s wedding were all the personal touches that were tastefully sprinkled throughout the day. Their guests were a fashionable crowd, some of which were dressed for the royal wedding with amazing hats, and some of which were dressed for a pride parade. It all worked beautifully together. The venue was a private residence in Napa Valley, CA sandwiched between vineyards, mountains, and breathtaking beauty reminiscent of the Tuscan countryside.

The front yard was shaded by large trees and set up for the ceremony with white chairs, a bar, and cocktail hour area. Because it was unseasonably warm, the grooms purchased electric fans that could be plugged into mobile devices as handouts for the guests. There was a signature Japanese cocktail drink being served at the bar upon guest’s arrival and the live band, Julian + 6, was playing soft, upbeat music in the background. Both Bradley and Michael wore custom navy suits from Indochino and peacock bowties from Bow- SelecTie. They got ready together in the guest house of the venue where the light was perfectly yummy. They wore colorful, fun socks to reflect their personalities and sweetly helped each other with bowties, cufflinks, and boutonnières.

After some photos in the neighboring vineyard and enjoying a pre-game cocktail hour with their friends and family, the ceremony began. Their nieces and nephews walked down the aisle before them, and then they made their spectacular entrance- accompanied by their dogs and set to ukulele music played live by a family member. The officiant had a great time with the ceremony. He even had a special “officiant wig” that he put on at the beginning and wore until the end. My personal favorite part was his folder that was decorated with images of The Golden Girls. All the little personal touches were both funny and meaningful.

Once the ceremony concluded, the grooms retreated to the main house while guests were shown to the backyard where the reception was set up. Walking through the archway into the backyard was a “take your breath away” experience. The tables were set perfectly with gorgeous floral centerpieces done by Michael’s talented mother who used to be a florist. The white linens and silver chiavari chairs were accented with lilac napkins on the tables which circled the sparkling pool and all had a stunning view of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. The event planner and designer, Danny Buell with EVNT Works, did a fantastic job creating a space that had perfect flow and ample comfort. The dinner was served family style by Elaine Bell Catering, one of Napa Valley’s top event caterers. 

Instead of the traditional cake to cut, the grooms opted for a more personal (and delicious) dessert option. There were three separate after dinner stations: an espresso bar, a Belgian waffle bar, and last but certainly not least- a fresh donut bar with a wide selection of different toppings that made the entire backyard smell like heaven. To say this idea was a big hit would be an understatement. We may have gone for seconds. Ok, if we’re being honest, thirds.

The music for the rest of the evening was provided by the same live band that entertained at cocktail hour, and the guests were treated to one more surprise before dancing. Michael sang a song to his new husband with the band backing him up. He could easily be on Broadway. His beautiful bari-tenor voice rang out with power, but was smooth as butter and had everyone melting. By the time it was dark, everyone was dancing and having a great time. The purple up-lighting, strategically placed throughout the reception area really brought the nightlife vibes. This was one of those “pinch me, I’m dreaming”- magical weddings for everyone involved from the guests to the vendors. It’s fair to say that the grooms were more then magical. They were the ultimate hosts, as stylish as they were handsome, and the absolute sweetest couple. This fairytale day left our hearts bursting with all the warm, fuzzy feelings…and the burning desire for a fresh donut bar in our backyard.