Posts in Wedding
Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding, Beverly Hills City Hall Wedding, Beverly Hills Wedding Portraits - Emily + Chris
 

Emily and Chris decided to elope. The reason? “We just want to be married!”

They first met in 2013, and their first date was at Westfield Century City Mall where they watched the movie “Her” - and OMG, this is one of my absolute favorite movies!

Emily is from China but grew up in Los Angeles. They’re artistic, working in the film and design industries, and it was a great honor to be able to document their civil ceremony at the Beverly Hills Courthouse, filled with genuine moments as they exchanged vows.

Following the ceremony, we originally went to go to Greystone Mansion to make some portraits, but when we applied for a photo permit for their wedding day, the area was closed due to an event… So we ventured around the stunning Beverly Hills area, capturing the essence of their joy in portraits. The architecture of the courthouse and Beverly Hills City Hall provided a picturesque backdrop, allowing their personalities to shine in every frame. We’re blessed to have captured their unforgettable memories.

 
Durango Colorado Wedding, The Black Diamond Lodge Wedding - Crystal and Hunter
 

Crystal and Hunter’s wedding was our LAST wedding that was postponed and rescheduled from the COVID pandemic. I believe their date has changed at least 4 times, and a couple of location changes as well. Crystal and Hunter are very spiritual, so of course they wanted something simple and unique and gathered their beloved ones to celebrate their “overdue” wedding. Oh, and Brett and Crystal have known each other for many years when Crystal was a musician back in the days. I believe Brett photographed Crystal when she was in California.

Their wedding at The Black Diamond Lodge in Durango, Colorado offered a stunning backdrop, celebrating the couple’s love amidst the mountains. Nestled in the San Juan National Forest, we took a short car ride into lush aspen and pine trees. It definitely provides a picturesque setting that was ideal for their celebrations.

Their day was “perfectly” coordinated by Amber from Perfect Day Co., and the lodge offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with rustic decor that complements the stunning scenery outside. As the sun sets, the lodge transforms into a cozy retreat, where everyone can celebrate into the evening. They created a truly memorable experience, including a candy piñata for children, a kid’s room, pizzas, fires pits, and sparklers send-off to end the night.

 
San Jose Vietnamese and Chinese Wedding at Koi Palace - Vivian + Curtis
 

Vivian and Curtis had to be one of the most unique couples we’ve photographed in 2024. They didn’t want a wedding. They didn’t want a photographer. They don’t like taking photos of themselves without being goofy. They don’t like attention in general. But then, their kindhearted mind was changed to celebrate their love for their parents and extended family who have been waiting for the occasion for a while.

So Brett and I took a short flight to San Jose and documented their day, with a traditional Vietnamese tea ceremony held at the Vivian’s family home first. Surrounded by closed family members, whom by the way LOVE photos. Vivian dressed in elegant ao dai at her brother’s room, symbolizing her cultural heritage.

Following the intimate tea ceremony, the festivities transitioned to a short DYI Chinese tea ceremony, where the couple paid respect to Curtus' side of extended family members. This ceremony was to connect deeply with Curtis’ Chinese roots, joyfully serving tea to their elders, who offered blessings and advice, fostering a sense of unity among generations.

Later in the evening, the wedding reception at Koi Palace in San Jose brought together family from all walks of life. Guests enjoyed a sumptuous feast that featured traditional Chinese dishes, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. Brett and I sat with the couple and their closed friends and devoured all the delicious food. Just like their simplicity in life, there was no other “wedding traditional” elements in the reception, rather, they had an awesome karaoke stand where many guests started singing and dancing!