I almost don’t want to write anything for this post. And just let the images speak for themselves. Because the day was filled with such an overabundance of love, such an overwhelming sense of joy – that I’d like to leave the words behind in hopes that these images do the day justice and that you can get a sense of how amazing it was just through the photos.

But I keep feeling compelled to tell you about certain things. Like how Ann and Connie designed and handmade almost all of the colorful and happy details you see below – the beautiful pillows, the adorable pom-poms that were thrown at the end of the ceremony, as well as of course the amazing invitations and programs. And how Ann’s mother and sister came for the wedding all the way from Thailand. And how Connie’s father learned and practiced a lengthy toast in Thai to welcome them. And how Connie wore her late mother’s beautiful green ring, how rather than doing a bouquet toss each presented their bouquets to their sisters as a sign of love and gratitude, how they did a casual lounge style reception rather than the more traditional dinner. And how when we snuck away to do portraits at the beach and we found that the tide was higher than expected, both Connie and Ann happily gathered up their dresses, braved the waves, and ran around barefoot on the sand.

Can you feel the love in these photos? Because it filled up every corner of this little beachside inn. Connie and Ann have been together for years, which has led to a beautiful deep comfort and understanding that’s so wonderful to witness. But there is also a way that they interact, that they look at each other, where it’s like they just met and are still giddy with excitement and falling in love at this very moment.

This combined with an intimate gathering of their closest family and friends created a very special day. I feel so beyond blessed to have been able to document it.

I love how every aspect of a wedding serves as a reflection of a couple’s personalities. The color palettes that adorn the day, the choice of food to be served, the selection of dance music at the end of the night. And one of the biggest expressions is undoubtedly the choice of venue – the backdrop against which all the evening’s memories will be created. I LOVE both seeing new venues and revisiting ones I’ve photographed at before, since every couple puts their own spin on the location!

If M & P’s venue choice were to speak for them, it would describe them as modern, fashion-forward, considerate and conscientious. The Seven Degrees in Laguna Beach perfectly mirrored their style and personalities and it was a joy to share in their wedding day! A big thank you to the lovely and talented Bonnie Tsang, who invited me to come along. I adore working with my clients as the main photographer, but love second-shooting as well – it’s such a great opportunity to take chances and flex my creative muscles sans the usual responsibilities of being the main photographer!

We started off at one of the bridesmaid’s homes, which was absolutely stunning. The fresh and clutter-free location made for some great photos!

We then headed to Seven Degrees for a sweet first look and some relaxed portraits inspired by the venue and the surrounding architecture:

Laughing photos are my absolute favorite!!

Sparkly-sweet lighting? Coming right up!

Some peeks at the artistically modern decor of Seven Degrees. How utterly fabulous are the hanging mobiles?

The beautiful & touching ceremony. Like always (it never fails, never!) I found myself blinking through tears a few times:

I love how the quintessential Southern California hills frame the venue on all sides. They really play up the contrasting sharp and modern vibe of the venue!

Now before we go on please take a deep breath, hold onto your seats, and prepare yourself for these details. The purpley-pink goodness was just breathtaking!!

Dancing the night away…