When you know, you know. In Bryana and Kristopher’s case, that meant their Napa Valley venue was a sure thing. They’d both always envisioned it as the spot where they’d become husband and wife, so these two lovebirds dreamed up a black-tie wedding whose dramatic, timeless style played off their vineyard venue perfectly. That same instinct of the heart led Bryana to the unicorn of bridal appointments – our stunning bride slipped on Candice in blush and just knew. It was the first and only gown she needed to try on.

Drink in the details of their stylish celebration, Kristopher’s sweet proposal and get real talk wedding planning advice from Bryana below!

How did your sweetie propose?

“Kristopher proposed to me on our 5th dating anniversary, June 26, on the beach in Cancun. The cover-up was a planned trip with 8 other couples and my family for his 30th birthday which is June 28. We had very nice dinner on the beach and then all I remember next is Kristopher getting down on one knee!”

wedding dress: Lea-Ann Belter Candice via Bridal Boutique Lewisville | photographer: Frank J. Lee Photography | scroll down for full vendor list

How did you choose your gown?

“My wedding planner took me to Bridal Boutique Lewisville, and  the Candice was the first dress picked out for me. The sample dress was in the color blush. At first, I was very hesitant. However, it was the first and only dress I tried on – I instantly fell in love with the way it hugged my body as well as the color, which complemented my skin complexion so well.”

Tell us about your day!

“I am from Vallejo, CA, located just outside of San Francisco. I think we both always wanted to get married in Napa. The resort provided an amazing suite for me to stay in while we were there. It was a very LONG day because we had a evening wedding. Makeup started at 6:30 am, hair started at 10:30 am. I presented my bridesmaids with gift bags that included a hanger for their dress, comfy socks, a silk robe and champagne glass to drink mimosas out of. The resort provided a lovely brunch for us in the room and everyone pretty much just relaxed and laid around laughing. We were all dressed and ready to go for photographs around 3 pm which was way earlier than we expected. Everyone kept telling me I was very calm. I did not get nervous until I had to walk down the aisle. The ceremony was breathtaking. The reception cave was just as I pictured it. We danced the night away.”

Did you have a theme or style in mind?

“Black-tie, classy. Colors: Black, Gold. Flowers: Roses.”

What’s your funniest wedding day memory?

“There were two funny moments. The first was when my sister (Maid of Honor) left Kristopher’s wedding band in our suite and we had to stop the shuttle to go back and get it.

The second funny moment was during the ceremony when I completely fumbled over our vows that I was suppose to repeat. I completely just forgot what the minister said. So Kristopher repeated the vows and everyone laughed.”

Five words that best describe your sweetie:

“Kristopher is hardworking, compassionate, handsome, determined and thoughtful.
Bryana is compassionate, loyal, honest, dedicated and beautiful.”

Any advice for future brides/grooms?

“It took Kris and I over a year to plan the wedding of our dreams. It was more amazing than I could ever imagine. With that being said, take your time, if you can, and plan the wedding YOU want to have. It is very easy to get lost in pleasing everyone. This is an impossible task to accomplish, believe me, we tried. Everyone is not going to happy with certain decisions you will make during this time. However, at the end you have to remember that this day is for you and your future spouse. It is easy to lose sight of what that day is all about.”

Where did you go on your honeymoon?

“Hawaii! Oahu and Maui and it was amazing.”

Bryana + Kristopher’s Black Tie Wedding Vendors

wedding dress: Lea-Ann Belter Candice via Bridal Boutique Lewisville | photographer: Frank J. Lee Photography | wedding designer/ florist – Leah Frizzell | 
hair:  Keara Stanley and Laura Helms | make up: Whitney Harper | videographer: Rene Abalos  of N Compass Cinema | venue: Meritage Resort and Spa