Une célébration merveilleuse!

(That's French for "A wonderful celebration!")

While working toward a degree in French, Katie spent a year studying in the south of France. She says, "This was a big adventure for me, and taught me so much about myself." During every school break, she explored France as well as many neighboring countries, and her wanderlust took root.

When she and Brandon met, they discovered their shared love of travel was only one of many common interests, including backpacking, home improvement projects, fine dining, and wine tasting. Over time, they became best friends and life partners, which led -- naturally -- to their wedding celebration on July 3rd!

Choosing their wedding venue was easy; both love rich, fruity red wines and they fell in love with Avio Winery in Sutter Creek, not only for the wine but also for the beautiful and intimate setting for their ceremony.

Working closely with their fabulous wedding planner, Shelley Larkin of Pizzazz! Event Planning, Brandon and Katie transformed the courtyard at Avio to represent "the South of France" -- allowing them to celebrate with family and dear friends without the jet lag of international flight!

Their ceremony included a non-traditional wedding party: Katie's brother, Jon, was one of her attendants, calling himself the "Bride Squire," and Brandon's sister, Kiersten, brought an extra touch of beauty as one of the groom's attendants.

Katie and Brandon surprised their mothers with a special presentation of roses ... they held back tears as they listened to the hands blessing ("These are the hands that, even when wrinkled and aged, will still be reaching for yours; still giving you that same unspoken tenderness with just a touch") ... and they sipped both a dry and a sweet wine, symbolizing their commitment to share both challenges and happiness in marriage.

All in all, it was "une célébration merveilleuse!" Congratulations, Katie and Brandon!

Avec l'amour et les bons souhaits!
Rev. Jeri