If you are on the fence and want both nature AND ballroom sophistication, this wedding is good inspiration to get both!

I met Drew & Rula in the French Alps. I always like saying that because it makes me sound sophisticated and worldly. They are two of the NICEST people I’ve ever met. Nice as in, “offering to help move furniture when they barely know you” nice.

Drew & Rula planned to have their ceremony under the trees at La Casita Del Arroyo, and then we did formal portraits at Pasadena City Hall. All that followed by dinner at their favorite restaurant The Arbour in Pasadena.

They had a simple, intimate, down to earth celebration with their immediate families, and the photos show it!

When I first became a wedding photographer I connected most with the brides. Now I connect with both the bride AND the moms. 🙂

Preparing for a simple ceremony under the trees at La Casita Del Arroyo.

Their dog’s name is Kiah and in case you can’t tell by the photos I’m posting of her, I am obsessed.

After the ceremony we went to Pasadena City Hall to capture some timeless portraits.

Kiah wanted to be part of the action.

Rula: “Can I twirl? I’ve been wanting to twirl in this dress.”

Dinner in a private room at The Arbour – one of Drew & Rula’s favorite restaurants.

Talking to mom. I love this photo. I don’t have kids (maybe in the future), but I imagine it must be a little weird (in a good way) to sit across from a human being that you created.

Passing around childhood photos.

Drew & Rula will be heading to Walt Disney World for their honeymoon (talk about similar interests – I love Disney!). It just so happens I will be in Orlando the same week, so I get to capture some honeymoon photos for them as well to add to their memory collection. 🙂

Wedding Vendors:

Venues: La Casita Del Arroyo, Pasadena City Hall, The Arbour Restaurant

Make-up & Hair: Kelly Zhang Studio

Dresses: BHLDN

Florist: Jacob Maarse Florists

Photography: Christine Chang Photography