• Real Weddings

Purple seems to be the rising star around here, it has graced our pages regularly in every shade imaginable. Honoring this love affair with the regal hue, we have  Natalie and Eric's DIY purple rustic wedding held at the Twin Oaks House and Gardens in San Diego, California.
This secluded venue features artistic and poetic gardens inspired by love, imagination and tranquility. Obviously the couple wanted to capture all those things in their wedding decor and details, spending tons of time creating the centerpieces and DIY touches. Captured by San Diego wedding photographer Priscila Valentina Photography. You can see more in the full gallery by clicking here.

From Natalie:

We fell in love as coworkers at Starbucks. After two years of dating Eric popped the question and within a few days we were investigating venues. Immediately after seeing Twin Oaks House and Gardens we were sold. Eric and I felt that a woodsy/garden vibe seemed to capture our personalities well, and we tried to portray that in our decor as well as other elements in the wedding. Being the fourth sibling in my family to get married, we had a lot of support and experience to help us out.

As you know we adore a good chalk board sign. Natalie made this super cute one that says, " If I was a flower growing wild and free. All I'd want is for you to be my sweet honey bee." Underneath they listed the bridal party what a great alternative to a traditional wedding programs. Incredibly cute!

In lue of a candle or sand ceremony we opted for what is called "God's Knot" which was a fun project for my mom and me to create, and now resides in our home as a meaningful decorative piece.

We spent a lot of time creating the centerpieces ourselves as well as the rest of the flowers for the wedding. My good friend and bridesmaid, Erin Alexander, created the incredible silk floral arrangement that is hung over the gazebo. Though the venue was beautiful by itself, we were able to add DIY touches here and there such as the chalkboard signs, which helped us save on our budget. We were also able to get creative with our guestbook, using a suitcase for notes in the place of your average book.

The venue's staff was amazing, especially Megan, our Day-Of Coordinator who made everything run so smoothly. Our DJ, Paul Peterson, was a blast and perfectly captured the classic rock/folk vibe we sought. Last but not least, the amazing photographer duo from Priscila Valentina Photography captured our day better than we ever could have imagined. They were so accommodating, showing up early, and staying late so that we could get the most photos possible of the day.Advice To Other Brides:My advice to other brides who are wanting a DIY feel is to plan your projects well ahead of time so as not to become too overwhelmed. Most importantly, make sure to stay true to your vision no matter what opinions others may have. Remember, it is your wedding, have fun with it!

Photographer: Priscila Valentina Photography Venue & Coordinator: Twin Oaks House and Gardens DJ: Paul Peterson Dress Designer: Maggie Sottero Groom's Attire: Alfani Red Ties: The Tie Bar Makeup: Mary Santos | Hair: Suzette Kerr | Veil or Hair Accessories: Handmade by Bride's Mom | Flowers: Bride's Friends and Family