"You had me at Merlot" | Kristi + Tim

In July 2015, Tim was turning the the big 4-0 and wanted to do something special, (along with something else special)! Kristi’s brother and sister-in-law recommended Healdsburg/Sonoma Valley!  Kristi and Tim quickly planned a getaway to Sonoma for the big celebration. The drive from San Francisco ended up being very long and stressful.  When they finally arrived at Copain Winery they were late for their private tasting. Copain is set on top of a hill with magnificent views overlooking the Russian River Valley. As their tasting was coming to a close their host came up to explain that because they were late they would need to vacate the table. A full glass of Copain’s Rose and the suggestion to go for a nice walk on the property were given as an “apology”.  They wandered further up the hill and stopped below a big, beautiful oak tree. 
Tim then confessed that he needed to say something…

Tim then confessed that he needed to say something. After expressing some beautiful, heartfelt sentiments regarding their lives together, he got down on one knee and asked Kristi for her hand (and heart) in marriage! After a few breathless “oh my god! oh my god! oh my god!” Kristi finally uttered the words – “I mean, YES!!”

After taking some time to enjoy the moment, Tim and Kristi made their way back down the hill to be greeted by their host with a glass of champagne and raucous applause from the other guests at the winery. As a newly engaged couple, the weekend to follow was spent enjoying Healdsburg and the Russian River Valley. They fell in love with Healdsburg and a restaurant called Barndiva where they enjoyed the best meal either of them had ever experienced.

As Tim and Kristi started to plan their wedding, it was clear to both of them that Barndiva was the perfect place to hold their wedding! They booked the wedding there without even seeing the event area! As their wedding pictures show, it was a spectacular venue that did not disappoint!

There were many outstanding memories of their special day, but there two that stand out.  The first is when Tim arranged to have a chalkboard sign made for the wedding, by a local Vancouver artist who created the signs for his restaurant.  This is particularly treasured as it holds a lot of memories of where they first met.  They have created a special place in their home where it hangs and will be enjoyed for years to come. The second memento was a beautiful book Kristi’s girlfriend, Michele, made for them as she could not travel to the wedding.  The book included notes from many of their friends who also could not attend the wedding.  Michele also included many pictures and memories.” It was truly the most thoughtful thing we have ever received.”  Tim and Kristi had it on display at the wedding, so that all who attended could share a piece of their story.