Jenny and James poured intention into every part of their wedding at the UC Botanical Garden, and it showed. Since they wanted to be involved in the planning process from start to finish, they booked Wedding Day Direction to be fully present with their loved ones on the big day.
We loved their free-spirited boho style, reflected in their forest ceremony and Jenny’s floral crown. But what stood out most was their kindness, shown in the thoughtful way they cared for their guests and creative partners alike. It was such a joy to support them in bringing this meaningful celebration to life.
A Redwoods Ceremony at the UC Botanical Garden
We were thrilled that Jenny and James chose the UC Botanical Garden for their wedding. It’s one of our favorite intimate wedding venues in the Bay Area, with an unmatched ceremony setting surrounded by towering redwoods. The Mather Amphitheater’s semi-circle seating creates such a beautiful sense of closeness. Loved ones encircle the couple as they say “I do,” making the moment feel incredibly personal and heartfelt.
Vivian Chen, whom we consider the undisputed queen of the redwoods, captured the ceremony and portraits throughout the gardens so beautifully. Jenny, thank you for trusting us fully and embracing our recommendations for creative partners. That trust played a huge role in making the day feel so seamless.
We truly stand behind the creative partners we recommend and love pairing couples with teams whose talents align naturally with their vision. With 30 years of combined experience planning weddings in the Bay Area, we’ve built strong relationships with creatives we trust deeply. We know these partners will help bring each celebration to life in an exceptional way.
A Warm and Welcoming Reception at Julia Morgan Hall
Julia Morgan Hall at the UC Botanical Garden provided a warm, historic setting for Jenny and James to celebrate with their guests. With its red-brick fireplace and refined timber construction, the hall reflects the natural beauty of California’s redwood forests.
Their reception design, brought to life beautifully by our production team, centered around connection. Long family-style tables encouraged conversation and togetherness, while earth-toned linens and bud vases filled with wildflowers brought the garden indoors. Origami cranes added a playful and meaningful nod to Jenny’s heritage.
As the sun set and the balcony bistro lights began to glow, the reception transformed into a cozy setting for moonlit conversations, dancing, and plenty of slices from Pie Dreams.
We love days like this one that unfold so smoothly from start to finish and leave the couple and their guests with memories for a lifetime. The UC Botanical Garden was the perfect backdrop for it all. From the serenity of the redwood grove to the warmth of the reception hall, it’s easy to see why this venue is one of our favorites.
Are you envisioning an intimate Bay Area wedding, like Jenny and James? Whether you look forward to pouring all your ideas into planning or want an expert to guide you from the very beginning, our team is here to provide the services you’re looking for.
You deserve the event of your dreams. Let’s bring it to life!
Kind Words from Jenny and James
“Working with Chanda Daniels and her team at A Monique Affair was the best decision we could have made for our wedding. Chanda was like our ‘Fairy Godmother,’ offering so much wisdom, patience, and support throughout the planning process. Her team made us feel incredibly cared for on the wedding day itself. So many of our guests said it was ‘the most beautiful wedding they have ever attended,’ and we’re deeply grateful for the unforgettable celebration they helped create. Choosing A Monique Affair was truly the smartest decision we made for our big day.”
Creative Partners:
Wedding Day Direction: Chanda Daniels for A Monique Affair
Venue: UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley
Photography: Vivian Chen
Floral Design: Esscents of Flowers
Entertainment: Heart of Gold DJs
Lighting & Production: Brilliant Event Lighting
Catering: Toast Bay Area
Dessert: Pie Dreams
