Re-opened Old Canyon Ranch Helps Couple Realize Valentine’s Day Wedding Dream

Old Canyon Ranch, a newly renovated wedding and filming property in rustic Topanga Canyon, is proud to announce the joyous union of Shawna and Michael Russell, who were married on Valentine’s Day in the ranch’s magnificent natural oak tree cathedral.

Their story is both beautiful and heartrending, as they overcame enormous personal obstacles and built a strong, healthy life together. The trials of their past brought them to meet in church one day, and strength they draw from each other built a deep enduring love between them.

Because they were never able to have a wedding, Old Canyon Ranch decided to make their dream come true.

“The overwhelming love the Russells have for each other brought tears to the eyes of everyone present as they exchanged vows on that beautiful Valentine’s Day afternoon,” said Wayne Blasman, principal owner of Old Canyon Ranch.

The Feb. 14 wedding was hosted at Old Canyon Ranch, at 301 Old Topanga Canyon Boulevard. The wedding was made possible by Old Canyon Ranch with the help of local partners.

Old Canyon Ranch extends a special note of gratitude to everyone who participated in this special event, as their time, money, products and talent were donated for this occasion: Pierre’s Catering Company, which donated the exceptional meal; Belle of the Ball Floral Designs for the incredible arrangements, bouquets and decorations; Rachael Metz with Tickle Me Sweet for the delicious desserts and favors.

Also special thanks to Jessica with Devande Photography for the photography, Reverend Stacey A. Cron for the beautiful ceremony, Kevin Dobbs with Global Spinners Entertainment for the ceremony and reception music, Jaime Lavalle with JaimeCakes for the wedding cake and Soltana  Mulhearn with Velvet Alley Events for coordinating the entire event.

The Old Canyon Ranch site about 25 miles from Hollywood and downtown Los Angeles features paths and picnic areas lined by lush, healthy plants and many oak trees to create a relaxing, shaded, inspiring oasis. Nestled in Topanga Canyon in Los Angeles County, about midway between Malibu and Woodland Hills, this newly remodeled and revitalized nursery property is no longer just a nursery.

The ranch, then operating under another name, was cited as “The Best Outdoor Wedding Spot Los Angeles, 2012” by L.A. Weekly. Renovated for even better wedding experiences, the ranch also hosts film productions and, by mid-2014, will stage wine-tasting events.

For weddings, hand-made benches line the aisle down a gentle slope to a natural cathedral of majestic oak trees. Behind the ceremony, a scenic stream with small cascading waterfalls adds ambiance to the landscape. Terraced lawns adjacent to and above the oak cathedral are ideal for receptions and parties; and the wooden stage is perfect for entertainment needs.

Just above the picnic area is the site of the newest addition to Old Canyon Ranch – a Wine Tasting Room slated to open soon. This glass-walled building with a wrap-around porch offers spectacular views for visitors to enjoy while tasting award-winning wines. A natural stone patio and fireplace extending from the porch will be a center for weekend entertainment.

The Ranch and nursery were reopened to the public on Feb. 15.

About Old Canyon Ranch: This outdoor venue combines Old West charm with a picturesque setting of intimate, rustic beauty. Old Canyon Ranch is a magnificent setting for weddings, where hand-carved benches line the aisle down a gentle slope to a natural cathedral of majestic oak trees. Old Canyon Ranch also is attractive for film productions and special events; and has a landscaping nursery open to the public.

To contact Old Canyon Ranch call 310-445-0800 or visit http://oldcanyonranch.com.