A traditional white wedding day look isn’t for every bride. Sometimes bridal style means leaning into drama + darker colors, and we are here for it.
Bride Samantha went for edgy elegance with her strapless black wedding dress, and the modern, b+w wedding that sprung up around her look was a monochrome masterpiece.
Samantha + her husband Henri enlisted the help of planner, event designer, and florist Tyler Speier Events to created this timeless-yet-modern celebration full of lush white florals and sophisticated black accents.
One of the most special elements is that this gorgeous California vineyard venue, Grimm’s Bluff, is a winery + ranch owned by the bride + groom’s family—bride Samantha is the general manager of Grimm’s Bluff wines—and Samantha + Henri’s wedding was the very first wedding the gorgeous location had ever hosted!
So glad Sefra Kay Photography was there capturing every stunning moment.
Is there anything more elegant than a sparkly pair of Jimmy Choo wedding heels and a bottle of Chanel No. 5?
“I knew I always wanted a black dress but finding the right one was near impossible,” says Samantha. “After searching for months and trying dozens of dresses, I finally found the perfect black strapless gown by NY based designer Nili Lotan.” We are so glad she did. We truly can’t imagine anything more perfect for Samantha’s bridal vibe than the Emeline Strapless Dress and its simple, elegant column silhouette.
Love the way the lace trim of Samantha’s black wedding veil adds a touch of delicate femininity to her modern look.
Our Favorite Memory From The Wedding Samantha – “Walking down the aisle and seeing Henri there.”
Henri – “Seeing Samantha in her dress for the first time.”
Our Musical Choices Processional: "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" by Sleeping At Last + "Caribbean Blue" by Enya
Recessional: "Best Friend" by Sofi Tukker
First Dance: "Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran
A Moment Alone
Samantha + Henri’s minimalist, monochrome tablescape was sleek and simple backdrop for the reception feast from Catering Connection.
Glowy romantic candlelight and disco ball sparkle courtesy of Bella Vista Designs.
Our Advice To Those Planning Now Get a wedding planner! DON’T PANIC. Make sure to plan to take time for just you two during the wedding.
In love with the elegance of Samantha + Henri’s ombre, three-tier, orchid-adorned wedding cake from Lelé Pâtisserie.
Congratulations, Samantha + Henri! Your brilliant b+w wedding day was the picture of edgy sophistication. All the best from GWS!
photography: Sefra Kay // venue name: Grimm’s Bluff, Los Olivos, California, US // event design: Tyler Speier Events // planning: Tyler Speier Events // florals: Tyler Speier Events // wedding dress: Nili Lotan // hair stylist: TEAM Hair and Makeup // makeup artist: TEAM Hair and Makeup // videography: McDuff Productions // paper goods: K Designs // catering: Catering Connection // cake: Lelé Pâtisserie // furniture rentals: The Tent Merchant // specialty rentals: Theoni Collection // music: Party Proper // lighting: Bella Vista Designs // vintage car rental: Hollywood Classic Cars // transportation: Jump On The School Bus