Summer Wedding at Ru's Farm | Kristine & Howie

You know those weddings that feel like a deep exhale the second you arrive? That was Kristine and Howie’s summer wedding at Ru’s Farm in Healdsburg. It was warm, intentional, and filled with family, friends, all the soft lighting, and meaningful moments that make this job so worth it. Their color palette of sea foam, blush, blues, and creams set the tone, but what stood out most was how present and connected these two were, both to each other and to every guest who showed up to celebrate them.

From the moment I stepped into the bridal cottage, the day just felt… calm. The suite was softly lit, with white walls and light wood floors giving everything a natural glow. Kristine had every detail laid out and ready…shoes, jewelry, invitation, even snacks and hydration for her crew (shout out to her for reading the bridal guide!). Her niece, who doubled as the flower girl, had her makeup done alongside the ladies. And in one of those moments you just can’t script, the iconic Lion King opening scene played in the background while Kristine stepped into her gown and that had everyone cracking up.

Her look was effortlessly elegant: a fitted gown, earrings with pearls and aquamarine (her something blue), and a necklace passed down from her mother and sister (her something old), her hair styled with elegant curls in a 1/2 up 1/2 down do that allowed her pearl adorned veil to stay put even through the breeze! That morning, Howie had a floral arrangement delivered with a sweet note. And I’m not exaggerating when I say that he did not take his eyes off her the entire night.

Their ceremony took place beneath the iconic tree at Ru’s Farm, with curved rows of chairs for their 108 guests and wine barrels adorned with florals. Kristine’s Uncle Phil officiated, blending laughter with meaningful reflection. The whole thing felt timeless and personal. I’ll never forget the tears that snuck out as Howie watched her walk towards him down the aisle.

While the newlyweds didn’t do a first look, we built in nearly 90 minutes for cocktail hour, which allowed time for relaxed portraits among olive trees, and lavender fields later at sunset. We were even able to wrap things up slightly early, something I always try to do so couples can feel fully present and not like they’re performing all day.

Cocktail hour took place in the shaded courtyard under umbrellas, with wine, cucumber mint water, and strawberry lemonade for refreshments. The reception was set beneath a canopy of trees, offering natural shade and a lovely breeze on this summer day. There were 12 round tables, each styled with glassware, candles, and floral centerpieces in soft blush, cream, and blue tones. And at each seat? A personalized stone with the guest’s name that was handmade by Kristine herself. (Honestly, she might need to start a side business.)

Dinner was served family style and included a delicious spread: salad, pesto bowtie pasta salad, lemon-zested chicken breast with white cream sauce, seasonal veggies, and pesto beef. The speeches were heartfelt and hilarious—from the matron of honor, best man, both dads, and a cherished family tradition: a passed-down toast originally given by Howie’s grandparents, now shared at each family wedding. One line from it has stuck with me ever since: “Your happiness is ours.” As a parent myself, that one hit deep.

After their first dance and the traditional parent dances, Kristine surprised her mom with a mother-daughter dance to Martina McBride’s “I Hope You Dance.” There wasn’t a dry eye in the barn.

The evening wrapped up with a glowing send-off in the courtyard with guests waving ribbon wands with tiny fairy lights as Kristine and Howie made their final exit.

Ru’s Farm offers more than just beautiful scenery. There’s the lavender in full bloom, a historic barn for dancing, and pockets of shade that make even a summer wedding feel breezy. And while some of the vineyards were still maturing, the olive trees gave us stunning creative portrait framing.

Many guests came from Washington and even Alaska, while Kristine’s family lives nearby. Most stayed in Santa Rosa, which is just a short drive away.

If you’re planning a summer wedding at Ru’s Farm in Healdsburg, here’s what I’ll say: build in buffer time, trust your planner, and give yourself space to enjoy it. That’s exactly what Kristine and Howie did, and it made all the difference.

Vendor Team:
Venue: @rusfarmweddings
Planner: @donnaddayevents
Catering: @parkavenuecatering
Hair & Makeup: @ritual.salons
Florals: @vandafloraldesign
DJ: @caliberdjs
Dress Boutique: @aandbe_bridalshop
Baker: @costeauxfrenchbakery
Bridesmaids Attire: @birdygrey
Groom & Groomsmen Attire: @menswearhouse
Invitations: @zola