Ready to be whisked away to a Tuscan-style villa? When event planner, Ashley tied the knot with Nick at Jacuzzi Family Vineyards, in Sonoma California they did just that. Let us take you away with event design by 2 the 9 Events and photography from Janae Shields. From their introduction her Valentine’s Day party to a Central Park proposal, we’ll let the bride tell you the whole story in her own words.
Q: How did you and Nick meet?
A: We met in college. Nick was my friend’s new roommate and tagged along to my annual singles-swing Valentine’s Day party. It was an instant attraction, and I haven’t had a single-swing Valentine’s day since!
Q: We’d love to know about your engagement. How did it happen?
A: Our engagement was a complete surprise, which was strange because we had dated for six years. It was movie-magical, and I still can’t believe it happened. I had planned a trip to NYC for Nick’s 30th birthday to visit friends. The trip was fantastic and packed with festivities. On the only night that wasn’t a holiday or birthday, Nick had made reservations at The Boat House, or so I thought. (It was closed that time of year.) He had been in cahoots with his friends for months and secretly planned a horse and carriage ride through Central Park. He selected The Mall which runs through the middle of Central park. He captured me in a hug and started to sink to one knee as he pulled out a ring box. My response was to ask him repeatedly if he was actually doing this. I finally stopped talking and sank on the ground next to him and said yes.
Q: What was the inspiration for the feel of your wedding day?
A: As an event planner you would think I knew exactly what I wanted. Nope! I knew I wanted a big dress, blue shoes, sushi and ice cream. I looked to the venue for inspiration for what would work well. I wanted it to feel timeless.
Q: What was your favorite memory from the day?
A: To pick one, it was near the last dance and the Black Eyed Peas song “I Gotta Feeling’” started playing. Nick and I had been working the room separately and came together on this song. Our family and friends surrounded us and were jumping and celebrating.
Q: What advice do you have for other couples planning their wedding?
A: Enjoy being engaged! You get to have and be a fiancé for a small amount of time — relish it! Also, don’t stress too much. People will cancel last minute; something will go not according to plan — it might even rain! Be sure to focus on what’s important. You’re getting married, and you get to spend a lifetime with an amazing person. This is one day. The worst that can happen is that you do a vow renewal in Vegas with Elvis. We did that too — but just for giggles.
Venue: Jacuzzi Family Vineyards
Event Design & Styling: 2 the 9 Events
Photography: Janae Shields
The wedding was AMAZING…we all had a fantastic time…and the Jacuzzi Winery…was beautiful!! (Ash is my niece and we are blessed by that too)