Where Love Bloomed Among the Vines: Kelsey & James’ Garden-Inspired Wedding at 27 Vines Winery
May 24 , 2025
Under the soft sun of May in Santa Ynez, surrounded by whispering vines and floral romance, Kelsey and James tied the knot in a celebration that felt more like a love story than a single day. Their wedding at 27 Vines Winery was intimate, whimsical, and filled with soulful details that spoke to their unique connection.
From the start, Kelsey had a clear vision. She had discovered her dream gown—a floral-embellished design by Mira Zwillinger—on Instagram. She made her way to NWLA Bridal in Santa Monica with that exact dress in mind. “It was the first one I tried on,” she recalled. “Internally, I knew. I tried a few others just to be sure… but when I put the original dress back on, I had the full-on tear moment. That was it.”
The most unforgettable moment? Without hesitation, Kelsey shared, “The first look with my husband. I wish I could bottle up his reaction and relive it every day. It was perfect in every way.”
Rooted in a garden theme, every detail was thoughtfully chosen to reflect the softness and bloom of the season—including the floral details on her gown that tied everything together. But it wasn’t just the visuals that left guests enchanted. During cocktail hour, oyster shukers wandered among guests, opening fresh oysters on the spot—an unexpected, crowd-pleasing delight everyone still talks about.
Later, as a surprise wedding gift to James, Kelsey had matching custom hats made for the two of them, adorned with flowers from her dress. When the dance party began, they emerged wearing the hats, led joyfully to the dance floor by a live saxophonist. It was playful, emotional, and purely them.
After such an unforgettable day—and wearing a gown that was both emotionally meaningful and a significant investment—Kelsey knew she wanted to preserve it for a lifetime. Quietly and intentionally, she turned to Elegance Preserved, entrusting them to gently clean, preserve, and protect the memory through their signature preservation box. “It’s something I hope to wear every anniversary,” she said. “And maybe one day, I’ll pass it down to a little girl of my own.”
{ D E T A I L S }
Planner: Ann Johnson, caterer: Catering Connection, florist: Wild West Florals, DJ/photobooth/guest book: Gavin Roy Presents, bar: Crafted Cocktails, oysters: Get Shucked, paper goods: KD Design Co., photographer: Brandi Crockett Photography, videographer: Agape Film Co., custom hats: Lidrow LA, gown designer: Mira Zwillinger, gown boutique: NWLA Bridal.
