Lions and Tigers and Zebras…wait…this is a wedding? Tucked way back in the canyons of Silverado lies one of the most unique wedding venues in Southern California, Rancho Las Lomas. Amongst the Spanish architecture and seemingly endless stairways, pathways, and hideaways, there are wild animals like white tigers, zebras, and exotic birds all around. (In cages of course!) Here we meet one of the nicest staff of caterers, bartenders, and venue coordinators. It is also here that Kiley and Dustin began their story as husband and wife. (And as Kiley mom pointed out in her speech, this is just the beginning of their story.) My story with Kiley started way back in 2013 when her friend and bridesmaid Madison got married. I was lucky enough to MC that wedding and, as things sometimes go, I was once again lucky to get the call to be a part of this wedding.
The ceremony and reception took place in the exact same place; the lower level Teatro. The team from the venue had one hour to turn this ceremony site into a reception area. This is a feat that is difficult, but not impossible, especially when you are working with an outstanding crew such as we had this evening. While Candice, their photographer, whisked them away to capture some amazing photos, the event staff at Rancho Las Lomas quickly moved the tables, chairs, and of course, heat lamps into position. The finishing touches were added by Olivia and Nicole from Liv For The Day who made sure every last detail was perfect. I’ve not had the pleasure of working with Olivia before today, but from the first emails we exchanged, it was obvious we were on the same page, and on the day of Kiley and Dustin’s wedding we proved it. The reception began with a fun Grand Entrance and a touching welcome speech from Dustin. Dustin then read a poem that he wrote (a family tradition) and finished the rhyming by asking Kiley to dance.
The speeches were heartfelt and touching, not to mention hilarious. An awesome “Hangover” reference was made in regards to the white tiger ending up in someone’s bathroom to signify a truly wild party, as well as more poetry, an amazing slam by Kiley’s sister to her (hopefully soon to be) fiancé, and concluded with a rap from Dustin’s brother Dave. Dinner was served, and the guests were treated to a delicious Mexican feast of rice, beans, fajitas, and enchiladas. The guests weren’t even done eating when some of them started dancing during dinner. It was a piece of cake to get everyone up onto the dance floor soon after that.
The cold November air didn’t cool this party down as it rocked on all the way till the animals had to go to bed. (Both the ones at Rancho Las Lomas and the party animals who stayed dancing, playing corn hole, Jenga, snapping pictures in the photo booth, and snacking on scrumptious desserts till the very end of the party.) When we wrapped up the evening, even I was surprised at just how many guests were still there to say goodnight to Kiley and Dustin.
Dave’s recommended vendors from this wedding included:
- Rancho Las Lomas – www.rancholaslomas.com
- Liv For The Day – www.livfortheday.net
- Candice Marie Photography – www.cancicemphotography.format.com