We wanted a colorful outdoor garden party that was laid-back and Californian.
Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love…
We live in San Francisco with our golden retriever, Howie. We love spending time outside and taking advantage of everything Northern California has to offer – cycling, hiking, days on the coast and in the mountains. We spend plenty of time with family on the East Coast and in New Zealand, and we find ourselves chasing summers in both. The pizza is better in New York, and the sausage rolls are in New Zealand.
How/where/when did you meet – and what were your first impressions?
We met during the pandemic through a cycling group, Fat Cake Club, in San Francisco. Both of us joined independently, eager to get outside and make new friends when the world was shut down. We both noticed each other from a distance—Zoë was drawn to Sam’s blonde curls and colorful cycling kits, while Sam noticed Zoë from behind (she was wicked fast on the bike). Later, as he caught up with her, he became fond of her infectious smile and sense of humor. We started out as friends in a large group, but we found opportunities to hang out one-on-one over time. A few long car rides—through Mendocino, San Diego, and Stinson Beach—along with sunsets, helped us transition from friends to something more.
When did you first realise that this was someone you’d like to spend the rest of your life with?
We fell pretty hard, pretty quickly. Since we were friends for a few months before we started dating, we both understood what we were getting into. It felt different right away. I think we’d both agree that the first trip we took together to Pescadero in Baja California Sur was a pivotal moment where we realized how special this relationship was. A year later, in that same spot Sam proposed.
Tell us about the vision you had for the mood and style of your wedding. (theme, key styling elements, florals, colour palettes etc.).
We wanted a colorful outdoor garden party that was laid-back and Californian – our vision first came alive when we visited Beltane Ranch, our venue. The colorful garden, yellow house, views of the sunset and incredible staff – all helped bring our vision to life. We were set on being outside as much as possible, and June in Sonoma provided exactly what we were looking for – and keeping it in California was conveniently halfway between our families.
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).
Sam’s top request was for a disco ball – and that combined with the black and white dance floor set the stage for a great time dancing the night away. Our florals really complemented the natural beauty of the venue and played into the bright accents of late spring in Sonoma
What did you enjoy most about the planning process and do you have any tips for couples starting their wedding planning journey?
Reflect on the weddings you’ve attended together and what makes you love (and not love!) them – we were pretty open with each other about what we did and didn’t want from a wedding and prioritized our energy accordingly. We wanted to make it an experience for everyone, and were intentional about including all our friends and family in an event that felt very…us.
Tell us about your main outfits, what was unique, is there a story?
Sam borrowed Zoë’s stepbrother Nick’s white dinner jacket that he had worn to his wedding the year prior. Since meeting each other, they’ve become close and fondly refer to each other as ‘brothers’ – and starting a new tradition with the jacket felt right – it didn’t even need tailoring!
What was 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?).
1000% photography, and Anna was our one and only pick. I’m pretty sure we ended up hiring her before we even confirmed the venue.
We are also big foodies, so we decided to go with Jessica Lasky Catering, a local, independent, women-owned catering company. Her team was incredible throughout the planning process and went above and beyond for us at the wedding.
Did anything happen on your wedding day that you laugh about in hindsight (even if it was stressful at the time)?
Our dog, Howie, joined us for a few photos before the ceremony. He was about eight months old at the time, and he immediately ate Sam’s
boutonniere. Luckily, our florist saved the day and produced a new one out of nowhere, but it’s something we laugh about now.
The day went so smoothly, and it was in big part due to our incredible team of vendors and the staff at Beltane Ranch. It was the best day and
one we will remember for so long.
BRIDE Zoë Silverman, @zosilv GROOM Sam Silverman, @sam__silv VENUE Beltane Ranch, @beltaneranch PHOTOGRAPHER Anna Elizabeth Photography, @annaaelizabethphoto PLANNER Boheme Events, @boheme_events_ FLORIST Perry Florals, @perryflorals CELEBRANT Family ENTERTAINMENT Adam Twelve, @adam.twelve HIRE Encore Event Rentals, @encoreeventsrentals; Theoni Collection, @theonicollection CATERING Jessica Lasky Catering, @jessicalaskycatering CAKE Salted Rye, @saltedrye STATIONERY Nicety Studio, @nicetystudio SIGNAGE Nouille Design, @nouille.design RINGS Hine Fine Jewelry, @hinefinejewelry BRIDAL DRESS Chosen by Kyha, @chosenbykyha purchased from The One Bridal, @theonebridalny BRIDE’S SHOE 30mm Aspro Sandal – Manolo Blahnik, @manoloblahnik BRIDE’S ACCESSORIES Pearl bracelet – Zoê’s stepmom received from her father; Earrings – Zoê’s grandmother HAIR & MAKEUP Julie Dy, @julie_dy BRIDE’S PARTY DRESS Winona Mini – Prea James Bridal, @preajames_bridal purchased Unveiled Bridal, @unveiledbridalsf BRIDE’S PARTY SHOE 30mm Aspro Sandal – Manolo Blahnik, @manoloblahnik GROOM’S DINNER JACKET Todd Snyder, @toddsnyderny GROOM’S PANTS & SHOES Suitsupply, @suitsupply GIFT REGISTRY Zola, @zola
