Jaclyn and Mike had an absolute fairytale wedding. Everything was perfect. I was really excited to photograph this wedding, because the couple is so sweet and happy, that I just knew it was going to be one of those perfect days. Everything was done right, even down to the shoes!
We started out at Jaclyn’s mom’s home. Jaclyn got ready in her old room, which was pristine and completely lacked clutter. Jaclyn was absolutely glowing from the inside and out. She was soo happy, it was infectious. This wedding was just such a pleasure to photograph. Jaclyn radiated warmth and joy all day long, and it seemed that there was no stress, everyone was just super happy. It’s true, Susan! (Susan is my most faithful blog reader, and can not believe how many of our brides are relaxed and happy on their wedding day). Amazing!
Aubrie headed over to the church to grab some groom’s portraits before the ceremony. When possible, this is a great way to get some really nice photos for the groom’s family, and it takes the pressure off the family photos after the ceremony, when some of them have already been taken care of. I love this one of Mike with his mom looking on. Mike has a very classic, retro style. He wore a classic tux with white bow tie and vest. He didn’t go too formal, though, did you see those cool shoes?
Inside the church, Jaclyn had the pews decorated with fresh bouquets of orange and green flowers, by Fiori. That’s going to be a big trend this year-the orange and green color combo. And doesn’t the flower girl look adorable? Aubrie was able to capture this from the balcony.
This day was about family. Jaclyn received a kiss from her grandfather before meeting Mike at the alter.
The lighting at this church was fantastic, all those stained glass windows let lots of natural light stream in.
One of the things I noticed throughout the day is that Mike always had his eyes on Jaclyn. I think that’s a really important indication of what type of husband a man will make.
The ring exchange…
Sealed with a kiss, and they are now Mr. and Mrs.!
The bridesmaids had individual black dresses; I think they’ll be wearing those again!
Jacklyn and Mike asked me to stop at a parking lot for some quick portraits on the way to the reception. This just happens to be the place where they had their first kiss, after drinks at the restaurant behind them, nectar. The bride’s simple, yet playful style allows her to relax and be herself on her wedding day, which is really one big family celebration.
The reception was held at the Garden Court in Palo Alto. This was my first time photographing at that location, and it is a gem! There is an inner courtyard area that turns into a great cocktail hour space. Throughout the evening, people wandered out for a drink or a breath of fresh air, it was really nice!
The couple chose a wishing well for their theme, as they got engaged right at the wishing well at Disneyland. The cake was lemon-something, and it was delicious. I had to stop myself from eating Aubrie’s piece too! Cake by Mayfield Bakery. The reception room at the Garden Court Hotel is L shaped, with lots of windows along the wall. This allows for tons of natural light to stream in, and also creates a very indoors/outdoors type of feel.
First dance. I LOVE the image on the right, just going into their final dip and a kiss. So romantic!
Here’s Jaclyn’s mom dancing with her grandfather, the patriarch of the family. In the background is Mike and his mom. Behind them, Jaclyn dancing with Scott, her mom’s boyfriend.
Aubrie captured this hilarious expression from Jaclyn!
Congrats to Jaclyn & Mike!
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
Gorgeous, as always! LOVE the shoes. I’ve been waiting and waiting for your next blog post…thank you!
Not worry, lots more is coming! We have a TON of weddings next month, super busy! I also have some AMAZING photos of Brittainie coming soon, from her prom and also a modeling gig she did recently (where I actually didn’t recognize her!). And then we had some hotties doing boudoir sessions for their husbands to be, but we have to keep those a secret! Things are good, very good.
Lara – you and Aubrie captured our love and excitement so well. Mike and I could not be any happier! These are moments we look forward to share with our children and grandchildren one day. Thank you so much!
PS: Thanks for the shout out. I didn’t catch it the first time because I had a line of students waiting for teacher’s attention.
I can believe that the brides are happy on their wedding day, it’s just how many times you report them being so relaxed that gives me pause. But if I had YOU as my photographer, I would have been WAY more relaxed at my wedding. But the reception was super fun….just ask Geoff!
CANNOT wait for more pix! I LOVE the Brittanie and Boudoir shots.
I know, I know, but it’s true. I have awesome clients!!!
Wow, what a gorgeous wedding.
you are most welcome Jaclyn, it was an absolute pleasure to photograph your wedding!