Laguna Beach Engagement | Night Photography

We love creating beautiful light from darkness. There is something to be said about shooting in the evening, especially around twilight.  Not only does Rob get to play around with flash gadgetry, but our clients love it because it's different. We love the drama and the contrast- but most importantly, the playfulness and interaction we see from our clients is a different quality than when we shoot during the day. You just can't help but feel a little more intimate and romantic in the dark. We have done many night portraits for our clients, but I'd like to dedicate this post to Carrie and Mark who are getting married later on this year in Newport Beach. We had such a stellar beach session with them. It was so much fun that we did a little session in Downtown Laguna after hours! 

We think night photography is awesome fun and hope you do too! 

Anaheim Hills Golf Course | Wedding | Photography

The Floral Design

Rochelle & Jason were married at the Anaheim Hills Golf Course.  The floral design was created by Leslie of Pixie's Petals.  The color scheme for the wedding included the classic bridal Ivory, green, and  a palette of purples and pinks ranging from muted to vibrant hues.

If you would like to see some of Rochelle & Jason's bridal portraits, you can check them out here.

The wedding was coordinated by Miriam at  Glam Candies.  You can check out the post on the reception details here.

I love the smiles and excitement on their faces as they walk back up the aisle for the first time as the new Mr. & Mrs!

The skies were full of drama just before the ceremony started, adding another dimension to the lovely ceremony site and floral decor.

Then Ceremony arrangements included a nice mix of ivory hydrangea, pink and lavender roses, a hint of green, and some gorgeous purple with ivory calla lilies.

 I like the dangling black ribbon as an added touch to the aisle decor on the contrasting white chairs.

The colors and flowers used in the bride and bridesmaid's bouquets blended beautifully with each other and the ceremony and reception decor while still being different.

The Bride's Bouquet.

The Bridesmaid's Bouquet.

The Flower Girls' Kissing Ball.

The reception decor included a mix of high and low centerpieces.

Orange CA | Wedding | Photography

What do you get when you combine lovely weather, a beautiful church, a gorgeous bride, and a handsome groom?  Yep, you guessed it: Frank & Cathy's Wedding.  Without further ado, we are proud to share with you a peek of Frank & Cathy's wedding day.  

The ceremony took place at St. Joseph's Church in Santa Ana.  Although we did take the traditional family photos outside the church, Frank & Cathy also wanted to do some fun and creative Bridal Portraits. So, we made a pit stop in Old Towne Orange on our way to the reception.  

Stayed tuned for a post coming soon about their reception at the Phoneix Club and all of its beautiful details. 

Anaheim Hills Golf Course | Wedding Photography

   We remember the first time we met with Rochelle. She was so excited to be getting married to her fiance, Jason, who at the time lived out of state. They were acquaintances, turned best friends, turned fabulous couple. When we were first introduced to Jason, it was clear they were meant to be together. On a brisk April afternoon at the Anaheim Hills Golf Course, the sun had broken through the rain clouds. Jason and Rochelle jumped the broom!

   Rob and I genuinely had a wonderful time. There were a lot of photo buffs here, and it made things very fun. We even showed a few of Rochelle's family some night shooting tricks! Here is a preview of Rochelle and Jason's wedding.

Wedding Proposal at LAX

Kira is one of our most loyal blog readers and Jessica Elizabeth supporters. So, when we received word that John was going to propose to Kira - we just HAD to be there. 

John and Kira: CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

John Proposes to Kira from Jessica Elizabeth Photography on Vimeo.

John welcomes his girlfriend, Kira, back home by meeting her at the airport with a pleasant surprise. Nice one Romeo.

Song: "Marry me" by Train. Available on iTunes!

Photography, Cinematography, and Editing: Robert Tran, Jessica Tincopa, Kevin Lam

Casino San Clemente | Wedding | Photography

A few months ago I attended a networking event held at the Casino San Clemente by The Knot. 

The Casino has a unique history. In 1937 the Casino San Clemente opened and featured orchestra music in the ballroom. From 1941-1943, the Casino served as a wartime lookout station.  Throughout the years, this location has been a restaurant, Moose Lodge, and dinner theatre. Currently, the Casino is used as a special event venue with multiple spaces available for your Wedding or private event including, a ballroom, a rock garden, a west wing, and a patio space. This venue is located near the train station in San Clemente within site of the beautiful Pacific Ocean.  If you are looking for a one of a kind venue it is definitely worth checking out. 

You can learn more about the Casino San Clemente and see more photos in their gallery here: http://www.thecasinosanclemente.com/index.html

Below are some photos taken of the decor from The Knot event.  I thought I would share in hopes that it may help inspire some of our brides and grooms with their own wedding decor.

This antique piano was set in the Rock Garden just outside the West Wing and Main Balllroom.  I love the colors used in this design. The rose, hydrangea blue, green, and tones of brown all blended so nicely together. The burgundy dahlias created a nice accent. 

I LOVE how the designer cut the word "LOVE" out of this story book. This would totally make a fun DIY touch to add to your wedding. 

This setting was located in the West Wing. I really enjoyed the old sheet music that covered the backdrop and the antique frames that were hung above the unique pieces of furniture selected for this room's decor. 

This floral arrangement set atop antique suitcases contained a mix of White Hydrangea, Dahlias, Lavender Roses, Purple Tulips, and even some Raspberries.

Laguna Beach | Engagement Photography | Newport Beach Wedding

Carrie and Mark will be getting married on a yacht in Newport Beach, California, later this fall.  They were getting ready to send out their Save-the-Dates and thought it might be fun to include a photo with them. Of course, we totally agree! 

While discussing possible locations to photograph their Engagement, Carrie shared with me her lovely memories of spending her summers on the beaches of Mexico with her family since she was a little girl.  So naturally, a simple and natural location on the beach was the perfect place to showcase their relationship.

Vibiana | Wedding Photography | Los Angeles, CA

Just a few days before Christmas, Robert and I had the pleasure of photographing Liah & Cristian's wedding.The wedding was held at the gorgeous Vibiana in Los Angeles, CA. Although it was pouring rain outside, the wedding day was fabulous!  

There are so many wonderful details to share that were beautifully designed and executed by de Luxe Weddings & Events.  We probably could have posted about 50 photos, but we like to keep a sense of mystery and suspense. So maybe there will be an upcoming sequel to this post.  This wedding is also being submitted for publication so we don't want to give away too much. 

Here is our sneak peek: 

Oh Liah, we love that beaming smile of yours! 

Lovely bridal bouquet by French Buckets (beautiful mix of hydrangea, roses, and lilies.)

Picture Frame Escort Board by de Luxe Weddings & Events. 

Liah's HOT purple bridal shoes :)

Tall Reception Centerpieces by 

French Buckets. I love the vibrant mix of pinks, greens, and purples.

Short Reception Centerpieces by 

French Buckets.  The floating candles in the vases was a dramatic touch.

Loving that reception lighting!

Interior of 

Vibiana set for the Reception. 

The Headtable. Floral Decor by 

French Buckets.

Check out this flashy bar by 

Jay's Catering.

These adorable desserts are also by 

Jay's Catering.

We just couldn't resist taking some ring shots with this dessert shot glass!

Our Stunning Bride and Groom :)

Contact Jessica Elizabeth: 

Jessica@JessicaElizabethPhotography.com

A sailor and his mate | Balboa Park Engagement Session in San Diego

Happy Veteran's Day everyone! Jessica and I want to thank everyone who has served or is currently serving in the name of our country. Freedom is not free and we don't take that for granted. 

We also thought it would be cool to show of engagement photos from last weekend of our friend Pete, who is currently serving the Navy. We had the honor of photographing Pete and his fiance, Erika, in Balboa Park, San Diego. We definitely had a great time!

   Pete even brought his Dress Blues suit! We hope you guys like these photos!

Balboa Park Engagement Session | San Diego Wedding Photography

balboa-park-engagement-session-san-diego-wedding-photography.html

St. Regis | Wedding Photography |Monarch Beach, CA

As many of our readers know, Robert and I work closely with Kerry Pulverman of de Luxe Weddings & Events.

Recently, Kerry was coordinating a wedding on a date that Jessica Elizabeth Photography was not booked with a wedding of our own. I was so excited when Kerry invited me to assist her with the wedding she was coordinating at the St. Regis in Monarch Beach, CA.

In between setting up the Escort Cards and putting out favors, among other assistant coordinator duties, I was able to capture a few photos of this gorgeous wedding.

The Ceremony Site was beautifully decorated by Nisie's Enchanted Florist. I couldn't resist quickly photographing it from a few different angles.

Here is the overview of the ceremony site on the Club 19 Lawn at the St. Regis. Yes, that is the Pacific Ocean out in the distance beyond the golf course.

St. Regis Wedding Ceremony Site:

The lovely mix of white hydrangea, pink and peach roses, white dendrobium orchids, and crystals was perfect for a late summer beach wedding.

I really enjoyed the white fabric draping billowing in the wind coming off the Pacific Ocean.

Close-up of the Floral Arrangements placed on the Aisle Seats at the Ceremony Site.

Wedding Ceremony Programs and Fans.

The gorgeous Reception Centerpieces created by Nisie's Enchanted Florist.

The Floral Arrangements gracing each of the Bride & Groom's chairs at their Sweetheart Table.

The elegantly classic yet detailed 5 Tier Wedding Cake.

The Escort Cards done on a ivory colored cardstock with names written in a silver glitter. Table is adorned with light pink and peach rose petals provided by Nisie's Enchanted Florist.

The menus provided by the St. Regis. The couple offered both a fish and a beef option to their guests.

Cute Wedding Favors. "Two Peas in a Pod" Salt & Pepper shakers for their guests.

Toss Bouquet.

And a little bit of candle light :)
A tasty Frostings Cupcake from Kerry for the bride and groom in their Honeymoon "Sweet".
The lighting was so deliciously romantic in this Honeymoon Suite!

St. Regis is located at:

1 Monarch Resort
Dana Point, CA 92629

Contact Jessica Elizabeth: 

Jessica@JessicaElizabethPhotography.com

The Dresser Bridal

Attention So Cal Brides: If you haven't found "the gown" yet make sure to check out this weekend's event at The Dresser.

 

When: This Sunday, August 22nd from 10:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.

 

Where: The Dresser Bridal

112 W. Commonwealth Ave

Fullerton, CA 92832

(714) 870-7101

 

What:  Wedding Gown Blow Out Sale

 

This is a CASH ONLY event.

{No children under age 12 are allowed in the store during the sale.}

 

What is a Sample Sale?

 

A sample sale is when a Bridal Boutique sells gowns that are basically new but may have served as dresses to be tried on at that Boutique. Often the gowns are from a past season, but not necessarily. The gowns are usually in pretty good or new condition.  Gowns must be purchased off the rack, not special ordered.

 

If you want a designer gown but don't want to pay the designer price tag, a sample sale is your best bet!

 

Although I don't know which designers are being offered at this weekend's sale, here is a list of some of the designers that have been offered at previous Dresser sales:

 

Mori Lee, Allure, Winnie Couture, Maggie Sottero, Casablanca, Essense of Australia, Pronovias, San Patrick, Mon Cheri, and Sophia Tolli

 

Maggie Sottero and Winnie Couture are just a couple of my personal favorites. Our brides seem to love Winnie Couture.

 

Marisa in her Winnie Couture gown from the Dresser

Ashleigh in her Winnie Couture

 

 

What should I expect?

 

If the sale is run as it has been in years past, a line will form outside the store several hours before the event starts, so if you want first pick you should get there early.  Admission to the store is first come first serve, and only a select number of ladies are allowed in the store at a time. You get a certain time frame (like 15 minutes) to find your dress. If you don't find it the first time, you can get back in line and have a second go at it.

 

Sizes:  6, 8, 10, 12, and 14 (some plus sizes available)

 

Prices:  $100-500 {generally a 50% or higher discount}

 

Alterations: When deciding whether to purchase the dress or not, take a few minutes to think about what alterations may be needed, if any, and how much those alterations may cost. Factor the cost of the alterations into the cost of the gown before you make your purchase. Like any other wedding gown, these gowns are not able to be returned.

 

The Benefits:

 

1)      Get a designer gown at a price you can afford.

2)      You won't have the same dress as every other girl this season.

3)      You get to experience a "mini" Running of the Brides experience without going to Boston.

 

Happy Shopping!

 

Maybe we will see you there and get a new gown for our Style Sessions.

Pitcher Park Wedding Photography | Details

A couple of weekends ago, Robert and I both had the day off. So, we decided to take a walk to Pitcher Park. Pitcher Park is a quaint little park near "The Circle" in Orange. 

We have walked to this park dozens of times, but this time it was different.  As we approached the park, we noticed that a sweet and intimate ceremony site had been setup. There was a simple white aisle runner, with twelve white wedding chairs on each side, and two adorable topiary trees to mark the altar.  I simply couldn't resist capturing a few photos.

As we were getting ready to leave, the details put together at the guest book table under the gazebo caught our eye.  

Below are some of the adorable details of this beautiful and intimate wedding.  

That old fashion tape player was the perfect centerpiece for this welcome table.

This is one of my favorite Bible passages. We included it in our own wedding.

Aren't these little Orange shaped candies adorable? What a great touch for an Old Towne Orange wedding!

I love this guestbook!!!  The bride collected Vintage Postcards from Orange and Orange County. She used these postcards as her wedding invitations, and then she asked the guest to bring them to the wedding to incorporate them into her guestbook along with their special message to the couple.  Such amazing creativity :)

Topiary trees were an element that I really wanted to incorporate into our wedding, but it didn't quite fit. They worked beautifully here.

What a precious and intimate ceremony site, beautifully lit by the golden afternoon of the July sun.

Pitcher Park is located at:
204 South Cambridge St.
Orange, CA 92866

Contact Jessica Elizabeth: 

Jessica@JessicaElizabethPhotography.com

Long Beach Ebell Club | Wedding Session with PhotogShootout

Quick mention: we're fighting for the #1 spot and we're sooo close... #2! Please take the time to check out the finalists. But we would appreciate it if you take a couple seconds and vote for Jessica Elizabeth Photography: CA's 2010

 

This past Wednesday, the group dubbed PhotogShootout, led by Garrett Davis and Hanssie Trainor, put together a Wedding session at the Long Beach Ebell Club. Periodically, we will attend these events to socialize with new and veteran photographers as well as experiment with techniques. Really, it's our chance have fun with photography. 

Jessica and I have been really busy lately, but when we heard that the shoot was hosted at the Ebell Club, we had to clear our schedule because we've heard some great things about the venue. Even though it was only for a couple of hours, we were glad to have participated for some of it.

Check out some of the images from the shoot. Thanks Garrett and Hanssie for letting us tag along for some of it!

A tribute to fashion photographers: Markus and Indrani. It doesn't really do them justice, and unlike them, this shot was all natural light. 

The bride's eyes in this photograph has a wonderful fierceness to them. She exudes confidence and I think that is what's so beautiful and seductive about her. 

An allusion to what's to come. 

This shot was Jessica's idea. As the group walked around she said, "Make sure you get the window in the shot." None of us understood at first, but as I began to frame the image... well, see below. Very interesting composition in my opinion. 

Just because it isn't a beach setting or some surreal, endless, landscape, doesn't mean that it can't be compelling, cinematic, just awesome!

Eyegasm!

When editing this one, I was inspired to make a movie poster. Latin Romance... anyone? 

Contact Jessica Elizabeth: 

Jessica@JessicaElizabethPhotography.com

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Los Angeles Wedding Vendors | Big Man Bakes

As some of you may know, I am a cupcake FANATIC.  I may even qualify as a cupcake expert. (Well, in the eating that is- certainly not in the baking)

Several weeks ago, Kerry and I had the pleasure of visiting Vibiana.  Both of us had such busy mornings that we didn't get a chance to eat lunch.  Although we probably had enough time to grab a sandwich once we arrived to Los Angeles, we decided to look for cupcakes (much more fun than a boring sandwich).

I searched on my iPhone for cupcakes, and a place called Big Man Bakes came up.  That's a funny name for a cupcake place I thought, but that actually made me even more curious to check it out! 

Once we walked up to the shop, I saw a man sitting outside on the patio reading a newspaper.  He resembled a professional football player, yet he had the sweetest smile.  For some reason I felt compelled to introduce myself.  As it turns out, this man is Chip Brown- owner of Big Man Bakes.  And honestly, after meeting Chip and seeing his shop- the name could not be more perfect. Although Chip is a big guy, I like to think that the name refers more to his big heart.  I only had the pleasure of speaking to him for a few minutes, but I liked him already.  I could tell he is a truly genuine guy who is passionate about what he does.  He gets up at 3:00 a.m. each morning to bake the cupcakes.  Now that's dedication! For those reasons (and the facts that his cupcakes look and taste amazing), I am happy to introduce Big Man Bakes to our brides.

Read on to find out more about Big Man Bakes and the cupcakes they offer:

Big Man Bakes offers five different signature cupcakes. The "big flavors" are carrot cake, red velvet cake, double chocolate cake, the "old school" cake, and coconut cake.  All of which make my mouth water just thinking about them! The red velvet cake recently took first "Best Traditional" category of the 2010 LA Cupcake Challenge.   I normally don't like red velvet (weird I know)- but this red velvet is fantastic.  Zesty Lemon is also available and addictingly de-lic-ious!

The cupcakes come in "XL" and mini sizes. Love that!

If I had to choose a favorite, that would be tough.  So do yourself a favor, and bring a friend with you.  That way you can try one of each and share. Or just take a pack of minis home with you.

Next time you get a little sweet tooth, I recommend taking a trip to Big Man Bakes. First bite and you'll be hooked! They're cakes are the way we love them...moist!

Oh, and if you do select Big Man Bakes for your wedding or special event, please make sure to save us a cupcake.  I mean it's only fair- we did introduce you!

"Like"  Big Man Bakes  here: http://www.facebook.com/BigManBakes

Big Man Bakes is located at: 413 South Main Street, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Big Man Bakes Phone: (213) 500-4351

Contact Jessica Elizabeth: 

Jessica@JessicaElizabethPhotography.com

Garden Grove Wedding Photography | Mark and Jessica's Wedding: Pt 2

The End.... ???

Contact Jessica Elizabeth: 

Jessica@JessicaElizabethPhotography.com

Garden Grove Wedding Photography | Jessica and Mark Flicker

Sneak Preview

On a sunny Saturday afternoon, June gloom stayed away, and we were lucky to be guests for Jessica and Mark's intimate backyard garden wedding at a private estate in Garden Grove, CA. OK, we weren't guests, but it didn't feel at all like we were working. Heck, it never does! Jessica and I had fun bonding and being a part of such a special day. Here's a sneak peek!

Meet Mark and Jessica: sweet, adorable, and down to earth

These are Mark's wedding shoes... 

These are Jessica's wedding shoes...

This is Jessica's look...

This is Mark's look... 

Mark + Jessica = AWESOME  

=D !!!

If you don't already know, purple is a trendy color this year. It was refreshing to see the green and yellow color combination, and we're totally loving the house that was painted to match. =D

Stay Tuned!

Contact Jessica Elizabeth: 

Jessica@JessicaElizabethPhotography.com

Vibiana | Los Angeles | Wedding Photography

This Tuesday, Kerry of de Luxe Weddings & Events and I had the privilege to attend a venue tour of a property in Los Angeles, CA. And let me tell you- I fell in love!

I absolutely love old buildings, ones with lots of character and history: this former Archdiocese Cathedral was built in 1876, complete with Baroque inspired interiors. Check!

This venue was designed using a neutral color palette, so that all the colors and elements chosen in your design and decor will truly pop. A style and desinger's ultimate playground. Check!

Vibiana's choir loft is a photographer's dream because it allows us to capture those bird's eye view, scene setting photographs without having to climb up a tree or into another hotel guest's balcony. (Although Rob will do those things for the shot though- If that's what it takes.) Check!

Vibiana's carefully placed lighting fixtures throughout the Main Hall and the garden area makes adding up lighting or colored lighting a breeze for your DJ or event design team. Check!

As an added bonus, Vibiana provides a bridal lounge and a groom's lounge for the bride and groom to get ready along with their bridal party. Yes, the groom's lounge has a flat screen TV. The on premises day of accomodations are a huge plus because everyone can spend the day together and get ready all in one place instead of rushing around town. This is also a treat for us because we can easily move from room to room capturing photos of all the getting ready activities.

If you decide to do a First Look, we have a few romantic spots in mind already :) There are also several modern and also historic buildings located within walking distance if you would like to do a mini bridal shoot before the ceremony.

This is truly a hidden gem in downtown Los Angeles. I purposely chose to include just a few photos because although Vibiana photographs beautifully, an in person visit will truly allow you to experience all of its granduer.

If you are still searching for an amazing venue, take an afternoon and go check it out. And as they say at Vibiana: "Experience the Divine."

I owe a big thank you to Anika for giving Kerry and I a first class tour of Vibiana!

Vibiana is located at: 411 South Main Street Los Angeles, CA 90012  Phone: (213) 626-1507

Check out the layers of century old marble that adorn the Grand Stage at Vibiana.

These Baroque columns stand 45 feet tall and contain some of the original painting and artwork dating back to the 1800s.

Standing at the center of the Main Hall of the former Cathedral is quite awe inspiring!

 

This is one of the rooms available as part of the Bridal Lounge. Sweet!

Once you are finished getting ready in your Bridal Lounge, we'd love to take some gorgeous Bridal Portraits here.  Love the light streaming in through the windows!
 

Check out this beautiful garden area that can be used for your cocktail hour or an outdoor reception.  At night it will be lit by the lovely LA Skyline.

 

Contact Jessica Elizabeth: 

Jessica@JessicaElizabethPhotography.com

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Shade Hotel | Manhattan Beach | Wedding Photography | First Look

What is the "First Look"? 

To put it simply, the First Look is the first time on the wedding day that the groom sees the bride in her wedding gown, with hair and make-up complete.

But isn't it bad luck for the bride and groom to see each other before the ceremony?

In present day, this superstition is largely a myth.  The tradition began when arranged marriages were the popular custom.  Often, a bride's family was trying to marry their daughter into a wealthy/wealthier family to secure a dowry.  The bride's parents did not want the groom to back out on what was largely a business transaction if the groom saw the bride and found her unattractive.  Thus, the bride was not allowed to see the groom until the veil was lifted at the conclusion of the wedding ceremony.

While many couples find the tradition of not seeing each other until the ceremony romantic, a look at the history of the ritual reveals that it is in fact quite the opposite of romantic.

What are the benefits of a first look?

One of the most important benefits of a First Look is that it allows for a more intimate and romantic experience.  At Jessica Elizabeth Photography, we often tour the wedding venue with the couple prior to the wedding to find the best locations that will allow for privacy during the First Look, so that the couple can enjoy the few moments together without distractions.  This allows the couple to take a time out and just focus on each other with out all the other guests and details interfering.    This helps the couple relax and creates much more genuine expressions which makes for better photos that truly capture who the couple is.

Since there is usually more time available for portraits prior to the ceremony, we often get to spend closer to 25 minutes instead of only 10-15 minutes taking portraits of the bride and groom during a First Look.  This extra time often allows us to take photographs in a variety of settings and backdrops, as well as take not only traditional photos but also the more creative and artistic photos that our clients enjoy.

Based on the other elements of your wedding day timeline, the First Look often allows for time to take the family and bridal party portraits before the ceremony.  This allows you more time to spend with your guests after the ceremony.  This also allows your family and bridal party to spend more time enjoying the cocktail hour and reception.

Won't the first look make the ceremony "less special"?

During the ceremony, you are getting MARRIED.  There is nothing that could possibly make the significance of that particular moment less special.  You may have seen each other earlier in the day if you chose to go with the option of a First Look, but this time you, the bride, are walking toward your groom for the last time as a single person.  You look at each other in an entirely different light at that moment and know that shortly you will be husband and wife. 

When is it essential to do a First Look?

Well, if you are not doing a first look, then by default that means that all of your formal portraits as well as all the group portraits with the family and the bridal party must be taken AFTER the ceremony.  We like to allow 30 minutes for the portraits of the bride and groom and at least 15 minutes each for the family portraits and the bridal party portraits.  So, if the sunset occurs within one hour of the time your ceremony ends, it is essential to have a First Look. 

Here in Southern California, we are blessed with plenty of sunshine, but the sunset time is of particular concern for weddings in the Fall and Winter (September-March).

Do you require us to do the First Look?

We don't require it.  Like all other aspects of Jessica Elizabeth Photography, the experience is designed uniquely for each of our couples.  The First Look is largely a personal preference.  But honestly, you'd be kinda silly not to do it :)

Did you and Robert do the First Look at your wedding?

Of Course!!!  And I can tell you right now that it didn't make the walk down the aisle any "less special."  If anything, those 15 minutes during the First Look are some of my most favorite moments of my wedding day.  We were able to escape from all the hustle and bustle that is a wedding day and spend just a few minutes together reflecting on the significance of the day and each other.  

If you didn't get the hint by now, we highly recommend it!

Here is a peek at Ashleigh and Luke's first look.  We had the entire rooftop pool deck at the Shade Hotel to ourselves for their First Look.  

After a brief session on the rooftop, we had some time to take photos by the Shade Hotel's fountain, one of Ashleigh and Luke's favorite areas of the hotel.

We also had the opportunity, to spend some time at their ceremony site before all the guests arrived...so romantic!

And we even had a few minutes left to take some fun photos with the bridesmaids :)

Special thanks to their wedding coordinator Kerry Pulverman of de Luxe Weddings & Events who was instrumental in developing a photographic timeline with us and overseeing it on wedding day, so that we could fit in all these photos.

Shade Hotel:

1221 N Valley Drive

Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Contact Jessica Elizabeth: 

Jessica@JessicaElizabethPhotography.com

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Arroyo Trabuco | Wedding Photography

Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club is a lovely venue, that honestly, until a couple of weeks ago Robert and I did not even know existed.  We didn't want you to miss out on this place, so we thought we would share it with you here on our blog.

If you are still looking for that perfect Southern California wedding venue, this is one place you should seriously consider checking out. 

Kerry Pulverman of de Luxe Weddings and Events invited us to the Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club Bridal Show, and we fell in love with this venue.  Here are just a few of the photos we captured during our visit. Hopefully, you'll get some floral inspiration here too!

The Wedding Garden:

The 2,500 square foot Wedding Garden at Arroyo Trabuco is simply breathtaking!  I love the large tree that hangs over the ceremony site.  So romantic :)

  

  

The Arroyo Trabuco Ballroom is 5,600 square feet and can comfortably seat up to 240 guests.  The Ballroom also has a cozy patio looking out to the canyon hillside and lake area- perfect for a cocktail reception.

This lovely White, Pink, and Green Centerpiece was created by Holly-Hill floral design.

I thought this display with the bird and the books was just adorable.  This display was created by Green Leaf Designs.  So was the Yellow and White Centerpiece below.

These elegant Purple and Green florals were also designed by Green Leaf Designs.

In case you hadn't noticed, Purple and Green is quite the trendy combo this year.  This fun and vibrant design was created by Elegant by Design.

Now that's one HOT Candle!

These beachy florals were also created by Elegant by Design.

Arroyo Trabuco Country Club is located at:

26772 Avery Parkway

Mission Viejo, CA 92692

A big thanks to Alyson Gabaldon, the Catering, Sales, & Event Manager for showing us around!

Contact Jessica Elizabeth: Jessica@JessicaElizabethPhotography.com

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