An Elegant Al Fresco Engagement Dinner Party

I seriously love getting to share gorgeous parties and today’s engagement party is particularly special because Bay area photographer Krista of Krista Marie Photography was not only behind the lens but also one of the guests of honor! Krista and her fiancé Jon met when they were just 12 years old and have been best friends for over half their lives. They started dating in 2012 and were engaged a few years later after a cross country move from Florida to California and over a decade and a half of memories. To celebrate they worked with Kara Garavatti of Styled with Life to plan a stunning dinner party with an elegant, organic vibe featuring loads of greenery, touches of metallic gold and rustic wood finishes. We’re talking a nearly 30′ farmhouse table with an incredible eucalyptus garland as the focal of the festivities and one very sparkly Badgley Mischka dress. Amazing.

With its gorgeous historic buildings, rose beds, and walking paths, Elizabeth Gamble Garden in Palo Alto was the perfect venue for Krista and Jon’s celebration. Guests mingled over cocktails, played cornhole and followed up dinner with a plethora of desserts. At the end of the night, everyone took home custom champagne bottles as favors. (Can we talk about how much I love those? Sipping champagne straight from the bottle with a straw is always a yes in my world.) Because Krista and Jon are both wedding photographers, Krista got busy taking loads of photos after her hair and makeup was done. Then she put on her dress and partied the night away. Ahhhh how much fun is that? For even more photos and details (and to see more of her gorgeous work), visit Krista’s blog!

I can’t get enough of this party. That eucalyptus garland is everything. And I really really want to plan a party now. Thanks so much to Krista for sharing and huge congratulations!