Shuchi and Vikas live out of state in Washington and travelled to California for a Malibu beach engagement
Continue readingEuropean Vacation in Italy
European Vacation in Italy
Last Summer, we flew to Italy to photograph a wedding in Tuscany. Since we had already made the trip, we extended our stay to enjoy a European vacation in Italy. We landed at Fiumicino Airport in Rome in the early hours of the morning, hopped in our rental car, and headed out to Firenze. The first three days of our trip were spent exploring this spectacular city. While walking down the narrow streets and along the Arno, we feasted on spaghetti, gelato, and lots of tasty Italian beers.
In Italy, Florence specifically, is known for its leather goods. While walking the city streets one will see endless vendors selling everything from jackets and belts to shoes and backpacks. Other local artisans can be found throughout the city. Painters recreating local scenes are a sight to behold and their talent is just incredible.
San Gimignano and Siena
Following our stay in Florence, we headed South to Tuscany where our second stay awaited us- Borgo San Luigi. Nestled deep in the Tuscan countryside, this stunning resort was home for us for two nights. The staff took the absolute best care of us and we recommend to anyone who is planning a European vacation in Italy.
Breakfast consisted of an omelette bar with farm fresh eggs, a veggie and fruit juice bar, and daily-made pastries that knocked our socks off. Two major towns were located just a short drive away from where we were staying- San Gimignano and Siena. San Gimigano was at the top of our list of places to visit during our trip. This 800-year-old walled medieval town sits atop a hills and boasts 360 degree Tuscan views.
Nicknamed the medieval Manhattan, San Gimignano is known for its towers that are spread throughout the town. With classic architecture, absolutely incredible food, and unparalled views, we could have wandered around forever.
The next stop on our trip was the town of Siena. Most famous for their food, narrow streets, and the famous bi-annual Palio, this town is just overflowing with things to do. It just so happened that our visit would coincide with the famous Palio. This event, dating back to the 1600’s is the most important event that takes place in Siena. Ten riders, each representing a different city ward, ride horses bareback in the city center for three laps.
It is absolutely something one must experience in their lifetime.
Rome
Ah, Rome. Where do we even begin with this spectacular city. Filled with a seemingly endless list of landmarks to visit, we only just scratched the surface of this magical place. Only having a day here to explore before our flight home, we saw as much as we possibly could in 24 hours. The great coliseum was at the top of the list, followed by the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Altar of the Fatherland.
Needless to say, all of the walking and exploring certainly gave us quite the appetite. Fortunately, we just so happened to be surrounded by some of the most excellent restaurants in the world. For ten days straight we were in pasta, pizza, and truffle heaven!
On the morning that we were set to head home, I woke up before sunrise to capture the sleeping city, before the streets were overrun with people. There’s just something about that warm light from sunrise and a quiet city that’s just magical.
Borgo Santo Pietro
One venue in particular that was a must during the trip was Borgo Santo Pietro. This five star estate is truly a dream come true. They havean infinity pool, suites fit for royalty, lush gardens, and a spa that I could die happy in. We spent the first few hours of hour visit exploring the seemingly endless grounds. They have an organic farm that is absolutely mind blowing- not to mention their vineyard and culinary gardens. This property is truly like something out of a fairy tale.
We stopped into their restaurant, Trattoria Sull’Albero which hands down serves the best prosciutto pizza I’ve ever eaten. After a mild food coma, we continued our tour inside the property’s 13th century villa.
Amalfi Coast
One of our last stops on our trip was to visit the infamous Amalfi Coast. We stayed in Serrano, ja quaint little town just a short drive from the town of Positano. No one told us that parking a car in Positano is a hopeful wish. We left our rental at the top of the hill upon arriving and made our way down via a series of steep, narrow steps. After about a mile of descending, we finally made it.
The narrow streets were fulls of tourists and vendors who were selling their goods. The buildings in the town are almost overlapping one another, similar to Santorini. This place really exudes relation to whoever visits. Being there makes you want just kick back with an aperol spritz on your hand and your feet up. We (slowly) headed back up to the car after a relaxing lunch to visit our next destination: Villa Cimbrone in Ravello.
Villa Cimbrone
I knew before even leaving for Italy that we absolutely had to visit this iconic hotel. Villa Cimbrone is perched atop the Amalfi Coastline overlooking the Mediterranean and has been around since the 11th century. This venue contains the iconic Terrazzo dell’lnfinito (perfect for cocktail hour) and an ancient crpyt that hosts the most beautiful wedding reception you’ve ever seen.
We had the most wonderful time visiting this beautiful country and we can’t wait to return for our next adventure!
Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab
European vacation in Italy
Must-See Places to Visit in France
Must-See Places to Visit in France
Just before COVID-19 took the world by storm, Lindsey and I took a Wintertime trip to France. We had been dying to visit for years and decided it was finally time to take the plunge. We made a list of must-see places to visit in France and spent ten days traveling around the country. My Rolleiflex came everywhere we went so I could document all of our experiences along the way. I even made it a point to wake up every day before sunrise. This allowed me the opportunity to enjoy the stillness of the morning and wander the streets before the hustle and bustle began.
We began our trip in Paris, where we spent six days exploring the city. Following Paris, we rented a car and took a day trip North to Normandy to visit Mont Saint Michel. The last three days of our stay were spent in the stunning countryside of Chambord.
Paris
Reading about Paris and seeing it in movies doesn’t come close to experiencing the real thing. This city is something that must be experienced by all of one’s senses. Walking by the cafes and brasseries, smelling fresh coffee and cheeses with bread stimulated all of our olfactory senses.
Ritz Paris
The Ritz Paris is one of the most iconic and beautiful hotels in all of Paris. This venue is known for hosting celebrities and providing 5 star service. Renowned for its opulent design, it’s worth a visit even just for lunch or a cappucino in one of their salons.
Notre Dame
The Notre Dame is currently undergoing a rebuild since the unfortunate fire they experienced a few years back. Nevertheless, this historic cathedral is still worth visiting and learning about it’s centuries old history.
The Eiffel Tower
The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Paris is the Eiffel Tower. This historic monument is without question a staple of France and shouldn’t be missed during your visit. There are even restaurants inside the tower you can enjoy a meal or cocktail along with a spectacular view. Just be sure to make a reservation in advance because they book out far in advance!
We recommend visiting early in the morning to get great photos of the tower without hoards of tourists obstructing your view. Because the tower can be seen from various locations around the city there are seemingly endless viewpoints it can be photographed from. We recommend scouting out your locations in advance if time permits. It’s also highly recommended to visit the tower at night at the top of the hour to view the spectacular light show.
Jardin des Tuileries
We stayed at Hotel Brighton just across the street from the Jardin De Tuileries. This beautiful and expansive garden is filled with beautiful views of the Louvre and the south side of the river Sienne. We walked through the garden daily on our way to and from our hotel just getting lost in the endless rows of trees and historic sculptures.
The Louvre
The Louvre was at the top of our list of places to visit in Paris. This historic museum filled with priceless art from around the world is an absolute must when visiting the city. I recommend arriving early in the morning to walk and explore the open courtyard as well as snag one of the first spots in line.
Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens are truly a sight to behold. Every flower and plant there is immaculately cared for alongside the palace itself. It dates back to 1620 and is a wonderful place to stop by for a picnic and enjoy some wine and cheese on the lawn.
Montmartre
If you’ve seen the movie Moulin Rouge then you’ve definitely heard of Montmartre. This hilltop neighborhood used to be the hangout for Paris’ Bohemian crowd and is now a destination hotspot. It’s filled with trendy cafes, the Sacre Coeur, colorful ivy-covered houses, and cobblestone streets. Definitely make sure to stop by this fun little town and grab a bite and cocktail while you’re there.
Musee Rodin
Paris is bubbling with a seemingly endless list of historic museums. We weren’t able to visit them all but we did spend an afternoon at the iconic Rodin Museum. It is located in the 7th Arrondissement and was by far one of the highlights of Paris. The gardens are filled with authentic sculptures including the infamous “Thinker”. Spend an afternoon wandering the gardens and then head inside for an in-depth tour of Auguste Rodin’s works.
Maison Sauvage
Maison Sauvage is a beautiful little restaurant located in the 6th Arrondismont. We stopped off there one day for lunch and are so happy we did. I enjoyed one of the best burgers during my trip to France along with their signature “Pornstar Martini”. We knew as soon as the drink was suggested to us that we had to order the cocktail. It was served in a chilled martini glass with vanilla vodka and topped with passionfruit alongside a shot of champagne. Trés magnifique! The restaurant even has a quaint little second floor that you can dine and overlook the street.
Monet’s Garden
There is a quaint little town located near Normandy called Giverny. Pronounced “G-ver-knee”. This town is special because it hosts Claude Monet’s home, gardens, and water garden. The beauty of this property is immediately apparent after stepping foot on the grounds. Every flower, tree, and plant is perfectly maintained. It’s no wonder Monet created work as beautiful as he did while being surrounded by such beauty. We were fortunate enough to visit during Fall when the leaves were turning to brilliant shades of yellow and orange.
Mont Saint Michel
Mont Saint Michel is a tidal island and historic abbey in Normandy. It’s about a two-hour drive from Paris but the trip is well worth it. You might or might not catch the island surrounded by water since the tide is always changing. If you do luck-out and get there during high tide you can take a long walk around the island for some truly unique photo perspectives. It boasts gothic architecture and has a quaint little town nestled inside that you can actually stay in if you choose.
Chateau De Chambord
Chateau De Chambord is another absolutely stunning destination located just two hours south of Paris. It’s one of the most recognizable chateaus in the world and for good reason. In addition to it being absolutely massive, it has very distinct French Renaissance architecture. We toured the property in a golf cart we rented because we knew walking would take us hours. Not to mention our feet were already so tired from the six prior days of walking around Paris. It was affordable and well worth it. We would just pull over whenever we wanted to stop and take in the view or capture photos.
We chose to stay in the hotel just next door- the Relais de Chambord. This modern hotel was overflowing with amenities including a sauna, jacuzzi, spacious rooms, white-linen dining, and tennis courts.
Photography | Alex W Photography
Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab
Topanga Canyon Engagement | Brittany & Ryan
Topanga Canyon Engagement | Brittany & Ryan
We started 2021 with a bang and met with Brittany and Ryan to capture their Topanga Canyon engagement shoot. We tossed ideas around to find something that fit their style as well as the vibe they were for. They rented a cabin for the weekend that doubled as a romantic getaway for Brittany’s birthday and our shoot location.
While the two prepared their outfits and unloaded their pup, Bentley, and I methodically walked the property looking for beautiful light. Brittany stepped out of the cabin, rocking an open-back white satin dress paired with white open-toe heels. Meanwhile, Ryan donned a cuffed-sleeved white button-up, navy trousers, and a pair of deep brown leather chukka boots.
The trick to capturing the natural moments and expressions of my couples is to just let them be themselves. Rather than posing them, I’ve found greater success in giving direction to evoke a certain look or mood. An example of this would be directing a scene in a movie. Giving them certain things to think about or the act they’re performing results in the most organic images. This could be as simple as walking hand-in-hand, leading one another down a path, or pulling each other in tight and whispering something into the other person’s ear that will make them smile.
We found a beautiful Bohemian-styled hammock that was tied between two trees. This made for a great first location and for the two to get comfy in front of the camera. The two have such palpable chemistry that getting them used to my camera took no time at all. Soon after we headed to our next location and kept chasing that beautiful, golden light.
Ending the Evening In Style
Ryan brought a surprise Vespa for the shoot that I knew would make for some stunning shots. We brought it to a hilltop for the last few minutes of sunlight.
This combination of sophisticated, timeless styles just can’t be beaten.
Now that’s what we call a proper exit!
Finally, Bentley got Mom and Dad back from the day’s activities and had them all to himself.
Photography | Alex W Photography
Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab
Dress | Park and Fifth
Rosewood Miramar Beach Wedding | Katarina + Dominic
Rosewood Miramar Beach Wedding
I had the pleasure of photographing a gorgeous Rosewood Miramar Beach wedding earlier this year in Montecito. The Rosewood opened just over a year ago and now serves as one of Santa Barbara’s premier luxury hotels. The property boasts private villas, five-star dining, and even a trained hawk to keep stray birds away. This beautiful venue served as the backdrop for the day’s festivities.
Getting Ready
Katarina and her bridesmaids got ready in the upstairs bridal suite of the hotel. Everyone was in great spirits while the ladies of TEAM hair and makeup worked their magic. A Chinese tea ceremony was held in the morning before Katarina slipped into her wedding dress. Both families attended and gave gifts to the couple along with words of wisdom and well wishes.
Following the tea ceremony was the first look for the bride and groom. Katarina slipped into her dress with the help of her bridesmaids and Mom. She paired her outfit with a pair of sparkly Louboutin heels and a bouquet from Toast Santa Barbara. The bridesmaids all wore stunning velvet dresses from Jenny Yoo’s newest line. The couple’s dog, Teddy, was included in the big day and even donned a tux of his very own.
Ceremony
Nina Moore and her team designed the most beautiful ceremony space. The aisle was lined with cherry blossom trees and loose petals were given to guests to toss. Roses, orchids, and hydrangeas adorned the floral arch at the head of the aisle. A live artist was present on the day to paint the couple as they recessed back down the aisle and enjoyed their first dance as husband and wife.
Reception
The reception space was decorated with stunning monochromatic white and gold tones. The sweetheart table was adorned with candles and surrounded by cherry tree blossoms.
Katarina and Dominic enjoyed a sparkly cake-cutting white surrounded by all of their loved ones.
Photography | Alex W Photography
Venue | Rosewood Miramar Beach
Planning | Nina Moore
Florals | Toast Santa Barbara
Videography | The Quail and The Dove
Makeup + Hair | Team Hair and Makeup
Dance Floor | RCD Dance Floors
Rentals | Bright Event Rentals
Linens | La Tavola Linen
Photo Booth | Mir Mir Photo
Fall Inspired Hotel Bel-Air Wedding | Melissa + Michael
Hotel Bel-Air Wedding | Melissa + Michael
I had the distinct pleasure of photographing Melissa and Michael’s Hotel Bel-Air wedding earlier this Fall. I first met this sweet couple last Summer when I photographed their friend’s wedding in Tuscany at Conti Di San Bonifacio. We were seated next to one another at the rehearsal dinner and instantly hit it off. Since then, I’ve documented their proposal on the top of a skyscraper in downtown Los Angeles and their engagement session at Sunstone Villa in Santa Ynez.
I arrived at Hotel Bel-Air the day before the wedding to photograph both their rehearsal dinner and to scout the grounds for tomorrow’s wedding. It was my first time visiting the venue, and as soon as I stepped foot on the grounds, I felt like I was transported to Northern California. The redwoods and sequoias encompassing the property were reminiscent of being in Muir Woods. Our team arrived the next morning to Melissa’s suite where she and the ladies were having their hair and makeup done. Michael and the guys were enjoying brunch on the main lawn before getting suited up for the day. We styled all of Melissa’s beautiful details in the courtyard outside her room. Honeycrisp Designs created the burgundy-influenced invitation suite that is perfectly balanced with the florals and color scheme of the day.
Morning Details
After Melissa’s mom helped her into her dress we headed out to meet Michael for the first look. Michael was eagerly awaiting Melissa’s arrival at the main lawn. When Michael turned to see his bride, the look of excitement and happiness on his face said it all. Soon after bridal party portraits were over guests began to arrive. They were led down a staircase that revealed the ceremony site below. Thousands of pink rose petals adorned the walkway that Melissa would walk down and modern, gold-backed chairs lined the aisle.
Cocktail Hour
Following the ceremony, Melissa and Michael recessed back down the aisle as guests showered the newly married couple with rose petals. Hors de oeuvres and cocktails were served as guests mingled during cocktail hour. While guests wined and dined, Melissa and Michael explored the property to capture their sunset portraits.
Reception
Guests were soon ushered indoors to dinner. Everyone’s jaws dropped as they made their way into the reception space. The area was adorned with blush, red, and burgundy flowers that perfectly complemented the golden tableware and blush seats. La Tavola linen supplied the most beautiful velvet napkins and Borrowed Blu’s burgundy stemmed glassware was just perfect.
The couple’s fathers and close friends gave heartfelt speeches while everyone joined in for toasts. After the speeches concluded, everyone surrounded the dance floor to watch Michael and Melissa have their first dance together. Fireworks shot out from the head table to end the dancing with a bang. Once dinner and cake cutting concluded, the dance floor opened up for dancing.
Outside of the reception space, an endless dessert bar of pastries and sweets awaited the guests. Everyone danced the night away while celebrating Melissa and Michael. The day was even more beautiful than anyone could have hoped for and it was an honor to have documented it.
Photography | Alex W Photography
Venue | Hotel Bel-Air
Planning + Design | Kelsey Events
Florals | Flowers By Cina
Beauty | Kelly Zhang Studio
Stationery | Honey Crisp Designs
Video | Monroe Films
Tableware | Borrowed Blu
Rentals | Bright Event Rentals, Chameleon Chair Collection, Chiavari Chair Rentals, Found Vintage Rentals
Photobooth | Shutter Booth
Lighting + Draping | Amber Event Production
Cake | Simply Sweet Cakery
Acrylic | Delovely Details
Heels | Jimmy Choo
Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab
Switzer Farm Wedding in Westport | Jennifer + Andrew
Switzer Farm Wedding
You need to drop what you’re doing and come take a peek at this gorgeous Switzer Farm wedding. This newly opened venue is located in Westport, CA, and made for the perfect backdrop for Jen and Andrew’s wedding day. The house was originally built in 1884 by the Switzer brothers and was restored in 2015. Before the renovation, world-renowned photographer Ansel Adams actually photographed the property in 1964! The property overlooks the Mendocino Coast and would be a dream for any couple looking for a unique venue.
We flew up for the weekend to document the festivities. After seeing their wedding photos below, we have no doubt you’ll want a coastal wedding as well!
Getting Ready
Jen and Andrew rented out the entire property for the weekend. Their bridal party stayed on-site and enjoyed the in-house chef and got ready alongside them on the wedding day. While Andrew and his groomsmen prepared downstairs, Jen and her bridesmaids were getting pampered in the upstairs suite. All of the ladies toasted Jen on marrying Andrew and Even their three dogs were included on the wedding day. After Jen finished with hair and makeup she slipped into her dress for portraits. Her mom was by her side to assist and capture some sweet moments in the process.
Ceremony
The ceremony was held on the property’s lawn overlooking the cliffs and the Pacific Ocean. Floral arrangements composed of pampas grass, spray roses, and fountain grass lined the aisle way. There was a flower-adorned wooden arbor at the altar for Jen and Andrew to stand under that framed the coastal rocks perfectly. Soon after the guests arrived, they were ushered down the hillside to their seats. Jen was walked down by her mom and Andrew was accompanied by his pup. After a heartfelt exchange of vows, the couple sealed their marriage with a kiss. Soon after, they made their way down the aisle with their dog in tow as their guests cheered them on.
Cocktail Hour
Guests made their way back up to the house for cocktail hour and to enjoy the sunset. Fresh oysters and handmade signature cocktails were served for everyone to enjoy. The most inviting lounge area was designed in the lower courtyard located beneath the main deck. While heading over to the lounge area with drinks and appetizers in hand, everyone stopped off at the welcome table to write in Jen + Andrew’s guest book.
Reception
Following cocktail hour, the reception space on the main lawn was opened to all the guests. Dinner was set to be served at an alfresco dining space beneath the stars. The tables were decorated with soft blue hues and gilded silverware. Loose blooms and floral centerpieces could be found throughout. Alongside the floral arrangements were the guests’ place settings written on agate. The sweetheart table sat at the head of the lawn surrounded by pampas grasses, overlooking the guests.
Guests soon made their way to their seats and the bridal party was about to make their grand entrance. Everyone stood, cheering on Jen and Andrew as they made their way to the dance floor. The two shared their first dance as husband and wife with views of the sunset over the Pacific. Meanwhile, their closest friends and family watched with adoration as the couple swayed, spun, and dipped one another.
Sunset Romantics
We absconded for a few minutes to capture a few more portraits before the sunset. We visited the home’s garden and captured the pair as they walked the property. After visiting the lounge area down in the courtyard, we headed back to the reception for dinner and a night full of dancing.
Guests raised their glasses and toasted one another during the speeches for the couple.
Jen and Andrew served one another bites of wedding cake while laughing and dancing into the night.
Photography | Alex W Photography
Planning | Two Roads Event Co.
Venue | Switzer Farm
Florals | Little Boy Flowers
Hair + Makeup | Megan Cary Artistry
Video | FonD Productions
Band | Lucky Devils Band
DJ | All Ears
Rentals | Bright Event Rentals
Film Lab | Indie Film Lab
Botanical Garden Engagement | Hannah + Vaughn
Botanical Garden Engagement
I had the pleasure of capturing this stunning botanical garden engagement shoot as my last session of 2018. I’m so happy I did because this turned out to be one of my favorite shoots of the year!
I met with Hannah and Vaughn on a warm afternoon and walked the grounds together taking photos. As we walked, we found beautiful light and marveled at all of the different gardens. You might even think you were transported to the jungle or the desert because of how beautifully designed each location is.
Hannah and Vaugh’s outfits both complimented each other and balanced perfectly with the natural color scheme of the property. They both looked timeless! These two have such natural chemistry and laid-back attitudes that working with them is a dream. You can really capture magic when your couples relax and trust in your vision.
We made our way through the different gardens, making sure not to miss anything. I always gravitate toward desert landscapes; there’s something about the golden tones of the sand and the colors of cacti that I just love.
Throughout our session, we captured a ton of belly laughs, kisses, and soft embraces. This allowed us to get a great variety in their photos. While we walked from one location to another, we chatted about their wedding plans in Palm Springs later this year and the fact that we live just around the corner from one another. So while I gave them recommendations for the wedding day they gave me a great new spot in our neighborhood to grab bagels in the morning.
We ended the session just as the sun set behind the trees. We captured some final images with the two dancing and an epic “lift and kiss”. I had the most amazing time capturing their botanical garden engagement session and am absolutely giddy about photographing their wedding later this year.
Lab | Richard Photo Lab
Southern California Beach Engagement | Ellie + Trevor
Southern California Beach Engagement
Ellie and Trevor traveled all the way from Hong Kong to Laguna for a Southern California beach engagement shoot. We were originally scheduled to meet in Malibu, but the date chosen coincided with the Woolsey fires that devastated the area last year. Because of this, I suggested that we instead drive down to Laguna Beach. Fortunately for us, there is no shortage of beautiful coastlines in California to play with.
We met on a warm November evening and had the beach almost completely to ourselves. This is always a pleasure because we can run up and down the sand without anyone in the photos. It’s also helpful to not have many people around when having romantic photos of yourself and your partner captured for the first time. Ellie and Trevor were pretty fortunate for the warm water that day as they were mostly surrounded by the crashing waves.
We chatted as we walked along the sand and across the algae-covered rocks. They shared about their wedding plans in Hong Kong later the following year, how they met, and their bunny, Snowball. We hung out at the beach until the sun dipped behind the ocean and everyone else left. They both really opened up once it was just us. This allowed me to capture some truly romantic and unique shots for them.
It’s so flattering to have couples entrust me to document such a special time in their lives. It’s even more humbling when they fly from the other side of the world for me to do so! We ended the session with smiles on our faces, sand in our hair, and new memories. I can’t wait to see them both again (hopefully in Hong Kong) and finally meet Snowball.
Photography | Alex W Photography
Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab
Film Stock | Fujifilm 400h Ilford Delta HP5
Southern California beach engagement
Conti Di San Bonifacio Wedding in Tuscany, Italy | Lily + Steven
Conti Di San Bonifacio Wedding
Prepare yourselves for Lily and Steven’s stunning destination wedding at Conti Di San Bonifacio. This bi-coastal couple did away with a local wedding and instead flew to Italy to tie the knot. They had originally planned for a Summertime wedding in Napa, but with a guest count approaching 300 and temperatures nearing 100, the couple knew that just wasn’t for them.
Conti Di San Bonifacio winery and resort boasts 360-degree vineyard views and rolling Tuscan hills. This spectacular venue is nestled deep in Tuscan wine country and served as the backdrop for the wedding weekend.
Bridal Party
Lily’s bridesmaids wore a collection of soft pink dresses. Instead of the traditional bouquet, the ladies instead wore delicate flower crowns. Steven’s groomsmen kept it traditional with black suits while he donned a classic black tux.
Portraits
We walked throughout the property during Lily and Steven’s midday portrait session. The overcast weather allowed us to shoot in all directions and really utilize what Conti Di San Bonifacio had to offer. We began at the back of the property where cocktail hour would be held. Lily and Steven walked hand in hand around the pool and made their way down to the main lawn. With the rolling Tuscan countryside in the background, it looked like we were on a movie set. It was absolutely unreal!
Getting Ready
Lily and Steven combined Italian elements and held a traditional Chinese tea ceremony in the morning. They were surrounded by their closest friends and family, some of whom even flew in from China. Afterward, Lily returned to her suite to change into her wedding dress for her first look with Steven. She paired her strapless, open-back dress with a classic pair of nude Louboutin heels. The bridesmaids chose to forgo the traditional bouquet and were adorned with flower crowns.
Bridal Bouquet
Lilly’s traditional bouquet was composed of lush greenery and white roses and was held together with a long white ribbon.
Cheers
While the ladies got ready, Steven and his groomsmen enjoyed a shot of some Hibiki whiskey. After some liquid courage, the guys headed over to the pool to get in a quick dunk and cool off.
Ceremony
While we captured portraits, the floral installation was underway at the ceremony site. Infinito Amore spearheaded the floral design. There was a seven-foot-tall ceremony arch at the end of the aisle composed of pampas, roses, and eucalyptus.
Lily and Steven officially became husband and wife in front of their closest friends and family. Everyone cheered and tossed olive leaves on the couple during their recessional down the aisle.
Just Married
Guests showered Lily and Steven with olive leaves as they made their way back down the aisle as husband and wife.
Cocktail Hour & Reception
Following the ceremony, guests were ushered to cocktail hour poolside. A spread complete with local meats and cheeses, fresh Caprese salad, and delicious homemade sliders awaited everyone.
During cocktail hour, we captured romantic portraits while Lily and Steven savored their just-married sunset together. The ceremony site was converted into the reception space where garlands of greenery and roses adorned the communal tables. Upon sunset, market lights illuminated the dining space with a warm glow. The floral wreath was moved to be the backdrop for the sweetheart table. Lily and Steven’s grand entrance was welcome with cheers from their guests. Everyone soon took their seats to enjoy a candle-lit al fresco dinner. Endless courses of authentic Italian food accompanied by local wine from Conti Di San Bonifacio were served.
End of the Night
Conti Di San Bonifacio served traditional Italian wedding cake and pizza for guests to enjoy as a late-night snack. This wedding was truly one for the books and I was honored to have documented it.
Photographer | Alex W Photography
Venue | Conti Di San Bonifacio
Florals | Infinito Amore
Scanning | Richard Photo Lab
Bride’s heels | Christian Louboutin
As seen in Magnolia Rouge.