A Romantic Garden Wedding at Villa Sancti Di Bella Vista in Malibu, California

Cassidy Gorden (26 and in brand marketing) met Cutter MacLeod (27 and in commercial real estate) when he chose the seat behind hers in high school biology class. “Our courtship started after I noticed he made quite the effort to always get my books for me in class,” Cassidy says. The two dated through college and later moved to San Francisco. For their earthy garden wedding, these SoCal natives wanted to celebrate in their seaside hometown. They chose Villa Sancti Di Bella Vista in the Malibu, California, hills for its spaciousness and versatility. “We were able to use all areas of the property, making each part of the day feel special without requiring additional transportation,” Cassidy says. "Our palette included tons of varying greens, muted yellow, cream and soft blush tones. We wanted to play off the manicured gardens, where the ceremony and reception took place, by enhancing the greenery rather than competing with it." Cutter and Cassidy shared personalized vows in front of 190 guests near the property’s rose garden. The ceremony was followed by an open-air reception on the villa’s lawns. Family-style dinner was served to guests on polished wooden banquet tables topped with silver eucalyptus arrangements and candlelit lanterns. Later, easy-to-grab desserts like mini almond oil cakes and brownie bites were perfect for when the dancing revved up. “I would highly encourage a first look,” Cassidy says. “It helps calm the nerves and makes the moment you first see each other so much more intimate and special—plus your bridal party will thank you since everyone gets to take photos before.” —Carolyn Meers