We’ve been waiting for this day since we met Peter & Bridgette! We met them for the first time, when they came up to us after we spoke at Showit United in 2017. Then, we really got to know them when they came to our James & Jess Workshop a few months later, and the rest is history. They’ve become our dear friends as we’ve simultaneously watched them grow deeper in love with each other. They are best friends, they make each other better people, and they are such a talented photo/video team!
We had the honor of photographing their proposal last year at Butterfly Beach. He surprised her by telling her they were doing a branding video of us at the beach but when they arrived he walked her over to a white blanket surrounded by florals, greenery, and a bottle of champagne. What could be better?! He sat her down and started telling her all the reasons why he loves her. Then, he pulled out his guitar and sang a song he wrote for her 10 years ago on that day, before getting down on one knee and asking her to be his wife!! All four of us were crying and we absolutely loved capturing such a special moment for our two dear friends.
And then we got to do their engagement at the incredibly gorgeous Sunstone Villa. We absolutely love photographing them because their connection with each other makes our hearts stop. So it was quite an honor to capture their wedding day as well! And we just can’t get over how good looking they are, and that first look reaction, oh my gosh, we just love them so much!!
The day finally came. The girls got ready at the Langham Pasadena. This is one of the most unique hotels, right in the middle of Pasadena. It has a floral wall at the entrance (yes please) and the hotel has a classic and vintage feel. When I (Jess) walked in, everything was perfectly laid out for me because Peter & Bridgette are photographers and know how amazing it is when the bride lays out her details! They even included a multi pack of ribbons that were in their color scheme for the wedding. Thank you. Seriously. After a relaxed morning of getting ready, the girls headed over to the venue where they guys were already getting ready.
This venue was incredible. It felt like we walked into a Tuscan style villa in Italy! From the stairs, to the decor and even the color of the outdoor area, it truly felt like we were back in Europe and we loved every single moment! Their first look was one of our favorite moments of the day. Peter’s reaction made us all cry happy tears together! He was SO happy to see his gorgeous bride and could not contain his joy!!
We worked with Peter and Bridgette to design a timeline that allowed for them to spend maximum time with their guests, so we did all of the portraits beforehand. We love when our couples focus on celebrating and want to spend ample time with their guests. They had a gorgeous ceremony overlooking the lily pond. Seriously we can’t say this enough – this venue is insane!!
Guests enjoyed cocktail hour while we photographed the details of their gorgeous reception space. We love how they used a neutral color palette with accents of French blue in their design. Guests were seated and enjoyed amazing speeches by their friends and family. Lindy, Peter’s long time friend, pinpointed their growth together in life so well.
“They have had their ups and downs and they figured out who they are, where they wanted their life to go, and they decided they were on the same path together. We all knew you were each other’s person, and we just waited for you two to figure that out. We all knew. It was just a waiting game. I love you both so much and I can’t wait for all of us to see your forever starting today.”
And Bridget’s mother, Kathy, had the sweetest memory of them together, which is when she knew that Peter was the one for Bridget.
“Peter, there’s a memory when I knew you were the one. Bridge was going through a very difficult time and she called me and asked me to be with her. I went down and you were already there. And she was laying with her head against you, you were stroking her hair, and you were singing a beautiful song over her. She had peace. It was a beautiful picture of Christ. Peter you have proven over and over and over again by your good character, by your love, and by the way that you cherish Bridgette, by your sense of humor, that you are not only good, but you are Godly.
We’ve all waited for so long and it’s finally here. Bridget I admire your courage. Peter, I admire your perseverance, that you guys have been true to yourselves, that you made sure that you were right for each other, that you were doing the right thing and you were on the right trail and there’s something so beautiful about you being a team together, being one together.”
We cried happy tears all over again as Bridgette danced with her dad, and Peter danced with his mom to Singing in the Rain. Guests danced all night and enjoyed cake, crepes and the Wittybooth. We had an absolute blast and loved every moment of capturing their day! We were honored to be there and we are so excited to share a few of our favorite moments captured with you.
VENUE: Villa del Sol d’Oro
DRESS: Lili Bridals by Essence of Australia
MAKEUP: Ja’Nice Ramos
PHOTO: James & Jess
VIDEO: Our Story Creative
FLORALS: Blomma Bloem Designs
COORINDATOR: Above & Beyond Events
CATERING: Santa Anita Gardens Catering
RENTALS: Lindbergh Services & Rentals
DJ: Dance Syndicate DJ Entertainment
CAKE: Sweet Creations by Beth
DESSERT (CREPES):Bon Cafetit
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