Elegant Black Tie Northern California Wedding | The Historic Benbow Inn

On a perfect fall October day, the clouds parted and the rain stopped, making way for a sunny and elegant wedding along the Eel River at The Historic Benbow Inn. Guests traveled to Northern California for a classic, yet modern, white on white affair to celebrate the marriage of Cortney and Michael.

Cortney and Michael. These two are the real deal. They met while attending Humboldt State University, and had an instant spark on their first date when they dined on artisan pizza and fine wine (as college students). They are deeply rooted in their faith, are extremely close to their family and friends, share a love of travel, and enjoy helping others and giving back. On paper they sound incredible but then you meet these super models, and feel their warmth; they are such good people with huge hearts - they far exceed anything on paper. It’s easy to see why so many people made the journey to the middle of NOWHERE for a weekend of fun in Northern California. It was our honor to help them bring their vision to life and to work alongside them and their lovely families on their special day.

Clad in dapper black tuxedos by The Black Tux, Michael and his FOURTEEN groomsmen (many were also former athletes at HSU) looked almost as good as Bronson, their bulldog. A true case of “who wore it better?”

Can you handle the cuteness? Bronson, you’re such a stud and you definitely set the bar high for all other wedding dogs.

“White on white on white.” This is how Cortney described her wedding vision last year when we first started chatting. The Benbow Inn provided the perfect backdrop for their stunning white on white color palette. Bridesmaids wore gorgeous Katie May off the shoulder floor length gowns while Cortney wore the most incredible Pronovias bridal gown. All white bouquets by Flora Organica Designs completed their elegant bridal look.

Before attending the wedding ceremony, guests were treated to a “pre-ceremony mingle” on the lawn adjacent to the ceremony. Escort cards affixed to each champagne glass directed guests to their seats for the wedding reception.

Flora Organica Designs built a subtle arc of pampas grass, white hydrangeas, white roses, and lush greens to frame the ceremony space and altar. The back of the aisle was flanked with similar pieces - all of these florals were later repurposed for the reception.

Have you ever seen a more beautiful couple? #NewlywedGoals

The James Zeller Trio band serenaded guests during cocktail hour with a variety of jazz and Americana tunes.

The Historic Benbow Inn has a spacious terrace overlooking the lawn and The Eel River. The white exterior and detailed Tudor design set the backdrop for their white on white wedding vision. Minimal and clean, the settings were refined, with a very modern table number that blended well with their overall style.

The most adorable sweetheart setup overlooking all of their guests with the sunset and river behind them. It was gorgeous.

After cutting their cake, guests transitioned indoors where we were all delighted to an endearing first dance by the newlyweds. Cortney’s glamorous gown was made for twirling; they looked like movie stars. Guests immediately got their dance game on and the party was hoppin’ thanks to the Accurate Productions team.

Before it got too late, guests joined Cortney and Michael along the rivers’ edge for their sparkler “send off.” Ken and Nicole of CKC Image captured the day perfectly but really flexed their muscles with these jaw dropping starry night shots.

Cortney and Michael’s wedding day was perfection on all levels. Cheers to you two! Thank you for letting us witness your love.