Nicole Sepulveda Photographer

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Mahino + Ben’s Multi-Cultural July Wedding in Napa Valley

The wedding of Mahino and Ben was truly one of the most memorable events...  Though it is an event from the summer of 2019, I felt it was necessary to add it to the blog, as it was one of my favorite events I had the privilege to photograph. It was a celebration that spanned four days, bringing together loved ones from all corners of the globe to witness the unfolding of their beautiful love story. Every aspect of the wedding from the locations, to the attire, the exquisite floral arrangements and delightful cuisine had been meticulously planned by Tan Weddings and Events for a truly unforgettable experience.

The festivities commenced with a welcome dinner at Tre Posti. Clear skies paired with the venue’s vineyard view patio provided a beautiful backdrop for the opening event to the festivities. The menu served delighted everyones taste buds and set the tone for a weekend, and as the evening concluded a display of fireworks illuminated the sky leaving guests in awe.

The following day brought forth the rehearsal dinner at the Culinary Institute of America in St Helena. During this event they beautifully integrated Mahinos Egyptian and Indian heritage; from the grooms entrance on horseback accompanied by musicians, the Hindu ceremony, the dancers, musicians and everyone dressed in Indian attire. Additionally, Bens Jewish roots were honored with a Hora dance that blended their heritages seamlessly.

Day three of the festivities featured the main wedding day at Calistoga Ranch.  Owned by Auberge Resorts, this venue unfortunately was lost to the Glass Fire in 2020... It was a truly breathtaking venue that left everyone speechless. This part of the wedding was true to very traditional American cultures and trends, with a layer of Jewish traditions with their arch resembling a huppah, and stomping of the glass at the end of their ceremony.  The open air, outdoor dinner and cave reception was easily the highlight of the entire weekend. Perfect weather with an exquisite gourmet multi-course meal under the stars then dancing the night away to the live band, Vybe Society, in Calistoga Ranch’s wine cavern.

Though my coverage ended on the wedding day, the couple’s weekend came to a heartwarming conclusion, with a farewell brunch held at Calistoga Inn. Mahino and Ben expressed their gratitude to their guests for traveling from near and far to be part of this special journey.

Though being from New York, Mahino and Ben managed to honor both their backgrounds while embracing their individuality through their wedding celebration with the help from Tan Weddings and Events. Every detail was infused with elements pulled from their love story, making it an elegant and breathtaking event that will forever hold a place in the hearts of all who attended.

Welcome Dinner

Rehearsal Event

Wedding Day

Photography | Nicole Sepulveda (shooting for XSiGHT)
Video | XSiGHT Productions
Planning, Coordination, Design, Piano & Gift Bags | Tan Weddings & Events
Florals | Scarlett & Grace
DJ | DeBorba Events
Paperie | Little Bird Paper Company


Welcome Dinner

Venue, Catering & Bar | Tre Posti

See this map in the original post

Rehearsal Event

Venue, Catering & Bar | Culinary Institute of America, Greystone
Dancer | Nathalie Tedrick
Musicians | Helm
Horse | Vintage Carriage
Officiant | Dr. Elrefai
Transportation | Pure Luxury
Rentals | Bright Event Rentals

See this map in the original post

Wedding Day

Venue, Catering & Bar | Calistoga Ranch
Dress | Vera Wang
Band | Vybe Society
Cake | Sweetie Pies Bakery
HMUA | Calistoga Salon 360
Rentals: | Tin Roof Farmhouse & Celebrations! Party Rentals
Shoes | Cinderollies
Restrooms | The Water Cottage
Linens | La Tavola Fine Linen
Officiant | David Gabriner
Cigars | Squire Cigars
Photo Booth | Giggle & Riot Funbooths

See this map in the original post