The train sounded its whistle multiple times throughout the wedding day as if it was congratulating the couple, Ashley and Thomas.  The historic Santa Margarita Ranch is located in Santa Margarita, California.  There is a beautiful adobe wall barn where the reception was held, and a train took guests for a ride between the wedding ceremony and the reception.  The bridal party was treated like VIP as they were invited on their own private train ride with the newlyweds.  Their train made the last stop of the evening at the reception barn doors for the grand entrance of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Bowdey.

The Mother of the Bride, Kim, was seated at the table closest to the newlyweds at their sweetheart table.  The disc jockey walked into the center of the barn and announced that Kim would be giving the next speech.  Kim stood from her chair and accepted the microphone from the disc jockey.  She nodded her head as to say thank you.  She looked to the right side of the room.  She looked to the left side of the room.  Kim glanced down at the handwritten speech that she had previously prepared.  She straightened out the paper before she switched the microphone to the “on” position.

Kim joked as she shared that she is old school, because she did not have her speech typed up on her phone like the bridal party did.  Throughout her speech, Kim spoke directly to her daughter, Ashley, and new son-in-law, Thomas.  Kim was not certain if Ashley remembered a conversation they shared in her backyard a few years ago.  Kim shared with Ashley about how she would love for her to have a fresh start by moving to a new location, with a new job, and maybe she would meet someone new.

Kim shared that before she knew it, Ashley had accepted a job in Walnut Creek; and Ashley was texting her GoPro pictures from her adventures with her “friend” Thomas.  Kim shared that things do not always go according to plan.  Even though Ashley and Thomas had to postpone their wedding for a year, Kim shared that she is so thankful that her second grandchild was the reason for the delay.  As Kim wrapped up her speech, Ashley wiped tears from her eyes and stood to hug her mother.

Ashley and Thomas, thank you for trusting me to capture your beautiful day.  I fell in love with you as a couple when you traveled for your engagement session, and we talked about your wedding day over wine.  You can revisit your engagement session blog post here.  I have been counting down the days until your wedding day ever since.  You are two of the sweetest, most thoughtful people, and you are so much fun to be around.  Together, you two are the perfect match.  As Sydney said in her speech, Thomas is the most polite person I have ever met.  I enjoyed every minute of your wedding day.  I am so excited for you to see some of my many favorite pictures from your wedding day!

Venue: Santa Margarita Ranch

Second Shooter: Caroline Limata Guerrettaz

Wedding Coordinator: Lacee Nordstrom

Gown: David’s Bridal

Bride’s Hair and Makeup: Lindsay Strawn at Spoke Salons

Grooms’ Hair: Angela Romero at Spoke Salons

Wedding Ring: Tiffany & Co.

Bridesmaid Attire: JJ House and Pink Blush

DJ: Damian Camacho

Wedding Cake: Just Baked SLO

Caterer: Popolo Catering

Photobooth: Bluebird Photobooth