While I love being a local Carmel wedding photographer, I love being able to branch out and meet couples where they are. Today we’re focusing on one of my favorites: Bo and Katie. Their beautiful wedding was in Napa Valley Eagle Vines Golf Club. The ceremony had views of rolling hills and the sunset was spectacular. It was an honor to capture their engagement and wedding day!

The Story

Katie, then living in Portland, visited San Francisco to attend the Oregon vs. California football game since she was such an Oregon Ducks fan. Before she bought tickets, her friend asked her to purchase an additional ticket for a friend, “Bo”. Katie did not want to go on a date at a football game, but she bought the ticket anyway.

The night before the game, Katie went to dinner in the city with some friends. She found herself chatting with a tall and attractive guy at the bar. After some time in the conversation, he realized he had not introduced himself. “I’m Bo,” he said, smiling. She realized Bo was the friend that was invited to go with them to the football game! The next day, Bo and Katie went to the game with their friends, Oregon won, and the rest is history.

First Look

Bo and Katie’s first look was incredible. Bo waited for her near the vineyard with his back turned from her. As she approached, you can see the excitement in her face. When they both saw each other, they melted! It is incredibly evident how Bo makes Katie feel so safe, and it is clear how Bo is enamored with her.

Notable Details

There are two notable details worth mentioning because they are so heart-warming. The first is how Mt. Tam is one of Bo’s favorite places on earth. Because it’s his favorite place and created so many places with Katie there, he chose to propose to her (in the pouring rain!) while they were on a hike. I shot their engagement photos at Mt. Tam as well. What is so incredible about Napa Valley Eagle Vines Golf Club is that you can actually see Mt. Tam in the distance!

The second notable detail is the sweet love notes. Bo sent Katie love notes throughout the morning prior to their first look. He would time-stamp each one. They would say something like, “How are you doing? Holding up okay? I love you.” It was such a precious way to communicate how much he cares about her and helped her stay connected to him throughout the morning.

Wedding Vibes

With a navy accented color scheme, the naturally beautiful Napa vineyards, and timeless decor, Bo and Katie’s wedding was beautiful. The bridesmaids all had customized robes and socks while the guys all wore Phish socks. They had “Katie Bo-tini” and “Wright Manhattan” cocktails for guests.

Like true Oregon fans, they incorporated it throughout the engagement and wedding. At their engagement photoshoot, they wore Oregon Duck’s shirts. Inside the groom’s wedding ring, “Go Ducks” is engraved. The escort cards were cookies that were in the shape of ducks and the Oregon “O”. All of these little details reflected their fun personalities!

It would be difficult to mention this wedding without mentioning the hilarious and energetic wedding party! They both had such a strong group of friends that knew how to have fun. They were truly a joy to be around, made evident by all the laughter and funny faces made in the photographs. The dance floor was completely full. Everyone was cheering throughout the sparkler exit! It’s moments and energies like these that make being a wedding photographer even more incredible.

Thank you so much, Katie and Bo, for being so awesome!

Are you getting married in Napa or nearby? I’d LOVE to be a part of your day as your wedding photographer! Contact me here.