Tia and Garnette were planning a commitment ceremony to celebrate their six years together when, as fate would have it, the California Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage. Knowing how quickly that decision could be overturned, they wed quietly at City Hall and then began arranging a larger party. "Ritual and formality are important to us," says Garnette. A year later, in a ceremony rich with symbolism, they repeated their vows in front of family and friends. 

The ceremony decor is kept simple and clean, with wood bowls flanking each of the rows of chairs. In each bowl floats white gardenias.

Tia and Garnette asked guests to bring bowls, which they collect, and displayed them at the altar.

Everyone washes their hands as a preceremony ritual.

Seating cards are secured with tiny clothespins for guests to easily find and take their seating assignment.

Fifty guests sit at one long table set inside a rustic barn.

The menu draws on local Northern California fare, such as fresh figs and cheese.

The chocolate cake, created by Patisserie Angelica, is decorated with white and purple flowers.

In the evening glow, wedding guests hold candles and toast the happy couple with Champagne.

The happy couple after their wedding celebration.

Location: Cornerstone Sonoma
Event Planning & Flowers: Nicole Sillapere of Sillapere Inc.
Catering: Sage Catering
Stationery: Twig & Fig
Cake: Patisserie Angelica
Music: Ever Music Group
Wedding Photography: Anna Kuperberg
Gowns: Idia'Dega
Bridesmaid Dresses: Monique Lhuillier