Jen and Ryan’s rose garden wedding was filled to the brim with family, friends, tons of love, and overflowing with gorgeous florals. All designed by Fullerton florist Milieu Florals. As you will soon see, her stunning arrangements complimented their venue quite perfectly. Not to mention made her Custom Monique Lhuillier wedding dress all the more beautiful. Which by the way is for sale. Click here to view her gown. They said "I do" at the oh so lovely Descanso Gardens -a noteworthy Los Angeles wedding venue for all of you on the hunt for a Southern California wedding venue. Before you leave check out the full gallery here. All captured by This Girl Nicole Photography.
The day started at The Langham Huntington, Pasadena in Pasadena, CA, where Jen got ready, while Ryan got ready down the street at The Westin Pasadena. Jen was probably one of the most calm brides I have ever worked with as she was totally relaxed throughout the morning and enjoyed getting ready with all of her bridesmaids. Once Jen was ready, we headed to her wedding venue, Descanso Gardens in Pasadena, Ca. The ceremony took place in the Oak Forest and the reception was held in the beautiful Rose Garden. Jen and Ryan decided it would be best to do a first look on their wedding day so that they could relax and enjoy the full day together and not have to hide from one another until the ceremony.Love her dress? Well it's your lucky day because her gorgeous custom gown is up for grabs! Find it here.
The ceremony took place as the sun was setting, making the oak forest glow- it was so beautiful! The pops of colors from the bridesmaids bouquets was the perfect accent amongst all of the green. One of the sweetest moments of the whole day happened during the middle of the ceremony. It was the point when Jen and Ryan honored their families and took a second to express their gratitude. During these few minutes there was so much emotion and love; it was so real, making it so special. It was clear how much their families love and care for them and have come together to support their marriage.
The evening continued with a cocktail hour amongst the Rose Garden and the reception under the Rose Garden Gazebo. The rest of the evening was one big party, highlighting the union between Jen and Ryan. I constantly found myself smiling behind my camera listening to the stories their friends told and giggling at Jen’s family dominating the dance floor. Jen and Ryan are really something else. They are goofy, easy going, and so adorable, and I think that all of those qualities of them shine through in their photographs.
My one advice would be to try and invest in a videographer if possible. If not, at least ask a friend to record the vows as well as the speeches during the reception. Everything happens so fast and I wish I could replay the evening!
This couples budget can be broken down as follows:
50% - food and drinks
20% - venue and coordinator
10% - beauty, dress, shoes, makeup
20% - everything else (flowers, photobooth, decorations, etc.)