On a perfect summer day in Temecula in June, James and Taylor said “I do” in a stunning ceremony overlooking the hills of California. We were fortunate enough to capture the day in both photo and film, and it’s not one that any of us will soon forget.
James and Taylor opted to forgo the common “first look”, and instead, James saw Taylor for the first time as she was walking down the aisle on the arm of her father. When the double doors opened, his face lit up with such unencumbered joy that it made me wish every couple would skip the first look. And no wonder- Taylor made one of the most stunning brides I’ve ever seen. Her chiffon dress was simple with the perfect amount of lace detailing, and she wore her long hair in curls beneath her cathedral veil. The effect was angelic, and James wasn’t the only one who was spellbound. Reverend Ty Tyler officiated the ceremony, and before we knew it James and Taylor were saying “I do” and sharing their first kiss as husband and wife. They walked back down the aisle together accompanied by the beautiful harpsichord music of Ted Nichelson.
The couple had a HUGE bridal party- 8 bridesmaids and 10 groomsmen in all! Even their adorable pup made an appearance. The bridesmaids wore cotton candy pink, floor length gowns which complemented the men’s traditional black tuxes perfectly. They carried stunning bouquets with the perfect balance of pink and white florals accented with greenery and designed by Mums and Lilies of Temecula. The men wore pink boutonnieres by the same designer.
After the conclusion of the ceremony, we ventured into the vineyards of Leoness Cellars to take portraits, and between the late afternoon light and the budding vines, the effects were breathtaking. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky, and there was even a light breeze to keep us cool. You couldn’t ask for better weather, or for more breathtaking scenery, on your wedding day.
At the start of the reception James and Taylor stunned us all by breaking out into a meticulously choreographed dance as their first dance as husband and wife. It was executed beautifully, and it was both elegant and timeless. 150 of their closest friends and family members dined in the dimly lit barrel room of Leoness. Candles were lit everywhere, and white curtains intertwined with twinkle lights draped the ceilings. Between the scenery and the understated, yet classically beautiful, decorations, it was the perfect romantic combination.
Guests danced the night away to tunes provided by DJ Devaughan of Timmy D Productions, and I think it’s easy to tell by the photos what a hit he was. The dance floor was never empty, and it was clear that the guests were having the time of their lives. It seemed like the only time they took a break was to devour some of the delicious 4-tiered cake artfully designed by Kathy Stringer of Bo Cakes (and to listen to the speeches, of course!).
This was an unforgettable day, not just for the newlyweds and their guests but for the vendors as well. A wedding is such a personal experience that I always consider it an honor to be given the task of preserving their memories in photos and in video for them to enjoy for years to come.
James and Taylor, thank you so much for including Nicholas G Photography in your special day. I wish you a lifetime of love, and endless happiness in the years to come.
Cheers!
Additional vendor credits:
Rentals (Chargers): Destinee/A Better Party Rental/951 674-9332/info@abetterpartyrental.com
@design.abetterparty
wedding film
