Shannon + Andrew by Morgan Stoddard

The natural, rugged beauty of Los Olivos as a backdrop.

Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love…

Shannon – I was born and raised in California. I moved from Los Angeles to Philadelphia in March 2020 (yay pandemic!) for a new role at Urban Outfitters Home Office here in Philadelphia. My background is in Apparel Product Development. I’m obsessed with being a dog mommy to our 5 yr old miniature schnauzer, Georgette. She is the light of my/our lives. I also love estate sales and finding the best beauty deals on QVC (yes!)

Andrew – is a native Philadelphian. He graduated from Drexel University with a degree in Business. He co-owns and runs 2 local restaurants in the Philly Suburbs with his father, Pete. Check out Casey’s Public House in Newtown Square, PA and Bewyn, PA 🙂 Andrew likes to cook and play soccer.

How/where/when did you meet – and what were your first impressions?

We met in the summer of 2021 at Andrew’s parents’ home at a pool party (Andrew’s older brother is a mutual friend and colleague of Shannon’s).

First impression of Shannon from Andrew: she was very outgoing, easy to talk to, and beautiful. First impression of Andrew from Shannon: he was so genuinely interested in what I had to say (which is a lot) and had an AMAZING, warm, and sincere smile.

What styling and visual elements worked best for you? (could be things, the florals, particular hire products or your marquee, etc., something the stylist created or simply just the scenic beauty of your location or the existing design of your venue).

The natural, rugged beauty of Los Olivos as a backdrop, combined with the elevated, refined atmosphere of Mattei’s Tavern, created a winning combination for us that we knew was unmatched.

Tell us about your vendors. Were there any standout suppliers you would like to make special mention of?

I can confidently say that our wedding day would not have happened without our wedding planner, Emma Adler of Emmy Lou Events. From day 1 of meeting Emma, we felt that she understood our vision of the day, but most importantly, she understood us as a couple.

Emma also introduced us to our talented photographer, Morgan Stoddard. Morgan’s photography style is rooted in a documentary, candid style, which is exactly what we were looking for in our wedding photos. She was a perfect match for us.

What were one or two elements that were most important to you both that you were happy to spend a little more on? (food, photography, florals, the venue, your outfits?).

With only 49 guests, we prioritised the quality and presentation of the wedding food. Mattei’s Tavern was the perfect venue, offering an excellent kitchen and ensuring top-notch food. The staff and hospitality at Mattei’s are amazing and go above and beyond to ensure a comfortable stay.

Was there a favourite moment (or two) that you will treasure always?

The smaller, intimate scale of our wedding made it truly special. The dinner reception, complete with heartfelt family speeches, the time of day, the beautiful florals, the tablescape, and the delicious food, created an unforgettable atmosphere. I highly recommend a smaller wedding; it allowed us to be fully present, connect with every guest we cherish, and flawlessly execute all the details without feeling overwhelmed.

Secondly, dancing with our friends (and some family!) at our impromptu late-night after party at the local western bar, The Maverick.

What does being married mean to you, and are there any special rituals you have that you would like to share?

Being married means having a forever partner-in-crime to do life with. Enjoying the life that we are building together. Also, it’s a small thing that means a lot, but Andrew makes me pancakes on Saturday morning because they are my favourite.

LOCATION The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern – 2350 Railway Ave, Los Olivos, CA 93441, United States, @matteistavernauberge BRIDE Shannon, @shanhaley GROOM Andrew, @andrewcrisanti PHOTOGRAPHER Morgan Stoddard, @morgan_stoddard PLANNER Emmy Lou Events, @emmylouevents_ FLORIST Aivy Floral Studio, @aivyfloralstudio CELEBRANT Bride’s stepfather – Mark Meier ENTERTAINMENT Second Song, @secondsong_official HIRE & CATERING The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, @matteistavernauberge CAKE La Dolce Vita Catering, @ladolcevita_catering STATIONERY Minted, @mintedweddings RINGS Custom Made – D’Antonio & Klein Jewelers, @dantonio_and_klein_jewelers OTHER SIGNIFICANT JEWELLERY Necklace – Diamond Tennis Necklace re-worked from a tennis bracelet which was my grandmother’s. My mom had it remade as a necklace for me after my grandma passed BRIDE’S WEDDING DRESS Toula Dress – Sarah Seven, @sarahseven via Lovely Bride, @lovelybride BRIDE’S RECEPTION DRESS Hope Gown – For Love and Lemons, @forloveandlemons BRIDE’S AFTER-PARTY DRESS Larissa Mini Dress – Nuuly x ASTR The Label, @nuuly, @astrthelabel BRIDE’S SHOES Seychelles Neve Slingback Kitten Heels – Anthropologie, @anthropologie BRIDE’S ACCESSORIES Veil – Etsy, @etsy; Earrings – Anthropologie Weddings HAIR & MAKEUP Team Hair and Makeup, @teamhairandmakeup BRIDE’S FRAGRANCE ‘Rare’ by Rare Beauty, @rarebeauty GROOM’S TUXEDO Custom Made – Hassis Men’s Shop GROOM’S SHOES Velvet Slipper – Del Toro, @deltoro GROOM’S ACCESSORIES Bowtie – David Donahue, @daviddonahuemenswear; Cufflinks – Bocara; Sun & Moon Watch – Noah x Timex, @noahny, @timex GROOM’S FRAGRANCE Hwly by Aesop, @aesop