Open Fields and Motorcycles: Shelbi & Zach’s Gansberg Ranch Wedding
Open fields, vintage motorcycles, and a love story rooted in Gardnerville, Nevada—Shelbi and Zach’s wedding at Gansberg Ranch embodied rustic elegance with a modern twist. Against the stunning backdrop of Job’s Peak, their day featured locally grown blooms, heartfelt details, and a celebration of everything that makes ranch weddings truly special. As their farmer-florist, it was an honor to bring their vision to life and craft florals that celebrated their connection to this beautiful region.
A Love Story Rooted in Hope Valley
Zach proposed to Shelbi while they were cutting down a Christmas tree in Hope Valley nearly two years ago. This season, they’ll cut down their first Christmas tree as a married couple—a moment that beautifully ties their love story to the season. Their wedding at Gansberg Ranch in Gardnerville, Nevada, brought together family, friends, and a vision of rustic charm and natural beauty.
A Vision of Wild Elegance
Shelbi and Zach wanted their wedding to feel simple yet stunning, blending boho vibes with the rustic charm of Gansberg Ranch. Their floral palette centered on whites and greens with pops of terracotta, apricot, and peach, bringing a fresh twist to the bohemian aesthetic. Shelbi requested ranunculus and dahlias—her favorites—while steering clear of dried ingredients and roses.
Their goal was clear: create a celebration that felt personal, local, and in harmony with the venue’s Western aesthetic. With a Groom’s grand motorcycle entrance and a bride whose warm personality shone through every detail, this wedding was as unique as it was heartfelt.
The Farmer-Florist Experience
As a farmer-florist, our role was to create a field-to-centerpiece experience despite the challenges of Gardnerville’s unpredictable spring. The late winter freezes and unseasonably cold June pushed us to the edge, but the blooms rallied just in time for Shelbi and Zach’s big day.
We harvested stunning Cloni Grand Pastel, Charis Butterfly, and Sfumato ranunculus to capture the desired palette. A single perfect Blushing Bride peony found its way into Shelbi’s bridal bouquet, complemented by fragrant stock and German chamomile. Black-centered anemones, which opened just in time, added depth to the palette.
Our couples trust us to craft their florals with care and creativity, working within a color palette rather than guaranteeing specific varieties. Shelbi and Zach’s trust in us made this collaboration a joy.
The Venue: Gansberg Ranch
Gansberg Ranch, a family-run venue in Gardnerville, offers breathtaking views of Job’s Peak, open fields, and a historic stone building that serves as the heart of the site. The couple and their wedding party prepared in the venue’s charming farmhouse, featuring a bright sunroom perfect for capturing pre-ceremony moments.
Guests gathered for the ceremony in an open field framed by the iconic stone building. With its fire pits, dance floor, and rustic reception tent, the venue seamlessly transitions from ceremony to celebration, all within a few steps.
Shelbi and Zach added their own Western flair, arriving at the ceremony via motorcycles and an old truck, embodying the ranch’s adventurous spirit.
Floral Designs Inspired by the Ranch
Ceremony:
Shelbi and Zach’s ceremony featured two lush compote arrangements atop wine barrels, framing the aisle and complementing the rustic elegance of the stone building. A meadow-inspired aisle design added a whimsical touch to the natural setting.
Bridal Bouquet:
Shelbi’s bouquet blended her favorite blooms with a touch of whimsy, creating a tamed, rounded look with minimal greenery. The Sfumato ranunculus tied the color palette together, while the Blushing Bride peony added a special touch.
Reception:
Repurposing the ceremony florals, Shelbi and Zach created a stunning sweetheart table design. The compote arrangements were placed at the table’s base, paired with her bridal bouquet, bud vases, and candles. Foraged greenery from the ranch added texture and tied the design to its Western setting.
A Photographer’s Touch
McKenna Payne Photo captured every detail of Shelbi and Zach’s wedding day beautifully, from the intricate florals to the big and small moments of joy. Her style perfectly complemented the couple’s color palette, bringing the entire story to life through her lens.
Congratulations, Shelbi & Zach!
Shelbi and Zach’s wedding perfectly reflected the beauty of Gardnerville’s ranching heritage and the charm of Gansberg Ranch. As farmer-florists rooted right here in Gardnerville, we’re passionate about bringing locally grown blooms and personal touches to your special day.
Planning your dream ranch wedding? Let’s create something unforgettable together. Inquire about our wedding floral services here.
We are looking forward to sharing more blooms with you soon.
Jessica & Graham
