What can I say about Kelly & Ben’s Meritage Resort wedding? It was stunning, emotional, and festive. The two met a couple years ago when Ben moved to San Francisco. Ben, raised in France, is an industrial designer. He has a calm and cool presence. He is quiet, but thoughtful–which was evident whenever he spoke. Kelly, a pediatric nurse technician from the Bay Area, was sweet, down-to-earth and excited to get going with the day.

The Meritage Resort and Spa is a gorgeous venue in Napa Valley. It’s made up of multiple wings of guest units all surrounding its signature vineyards. From Kelly’s hotel suite you could see the Vineyard Deck where the ceremony would be held later in the afternoon.

Kelly’s morning was spent getting primped and primed for the wedding in her suite with the ladies. They shared memories over a glass (or two) of bubbly, passing the time before Kelly got into her gown.

Photographer: Duy Ho
Venue: Meritage Resorts
Floral and Decor: Rion Designs
Planner: Sean Dempsey
Entertainment: DJ Cams
Videographer: By Design Films
Lighting: AVMS
Stationery: A Day in May

Meanwhile, Ben and the boys were hanging out in a *slightly* smaller room… and Ben presented gifts to each of his groomsmen. They quickly donned their ties and blazers and set out to take a few group shots before the ceremony. Kelly was assisted by her twin sister as she got into her Pronovias wedding gown.
And when she was ready, her father was waiting outside to see her for the first time as a bride before the ceremony. And then it was Ben’s turn to see Kelly as she came down the aisle. While the view of the vineyards were breathtaking, it was the words shared by Kelly and Ben in their vows that moved everyone to tears.   Kelly and Ben hurried down the aisle as husband and wife and as they shared a moment to themselves immediately after the ceremony, they looked back up to to their guests on the vineyard deck to see the smiling faces of their friends and family cheering them on.
Daylight was fleeting as Kelly and Ben made their way down the steps through the vineyards. But it was the perfect light to capture some portraits along the way. The reception was held in the Estate Wine Cave. Decorative uplighting and gorgeous centerpieces made for a regal, warm and classy environment. After their grand entrance, emotions were held high throughout an evening of moving toasts and speeches by both families. And an incredible toast from Ben that left everyone in tears. After dinner and toasts, Kelly and Ben opened up the dance floor with their first dance. From there, Kelly and Ben’s Meritage Resort wedding transitioned into a dance party for the rest of the night!