Sarah (a.k.a. “Howie”) and Donovan met while Donovan was managing The Pico Playhouse – a black box theatre located down the street from the Sony lot. Howie was in a play called “Stockholm” at the theatre, and she had planned to move back to Atlanta after the run of the show but that obviously didn’t happen! Within months of dating, the pandemic hit and Howie moved in with Donovan rather than packing her bags back to Atlanta. Their days were filled with growing tomatoes and reading a gratuitous amount of books. Howie and Donovan’s wedding took place in the heart of the redwoods at Dawn Ranch in Guerneville, California. Their wedding, captured by Amy DeBonis Photography and planned with the help of Paper Heart Events, was “autumn court” inspired – a colorful and whimsical theme that made their celebration unique and completely theirs.
Undeniably original wedding design
Between the whimsical florals by The Wild Fleur, trees dripping with candles, and a venue nestled in the heart of the woods, Howie and Donovan’s wedding was an immersive and transportive experience. Distinct, fashion-forward and undeniably original, Howie and Donovan made their wedding their own.
Green (yes, green!) bridal style
Howie stunned in her custom green gown by Galia Lahav – a striking departure from tradition that perfectly fit the vibe of their wedding day.
Custom green suiting
Donovan also sported a gorgeous custom green suit from Klein Epstein Parker.
An autumn fairytale ceremony
Howie walked down the aisle like a character straight out of an autumn fairytale. A showstopping cathedral-length veil trailed behind her as she walked down an aisle of colorful flowers to a stunning wildflower installation.
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A book lover’s seating chart
Guests found their seat using a seating wall made from books with “open book” seating assignments.
Sparkling gold details & decor
Guests dined and danced amidst the trees with tables outfitted with gold name plates and patterned place settings adorned with dried thistle.
Day-to-night tree-decor
Crystal clear votive holders added a touch of sparkle in the sun and could later be used to house delicate votives to light the night.
Cupcakes & ice cream
Why have just one type of dessert when you can have three! Guests enjoyed golden hued cupcakes and an ice cream and pie cart before they danced the night away under the trees.
