When we first walked into the lobby of the Hard Rock Hotel in Downtown San Diego, we could just tell this was going to be an awesome day. Walking out the door was a reality film crew following a pro-skater while inside the lobby was a packed crowd of ladies attending a scrap booking conference. The energy was electric

We headed upstairs to Catherine’s room and were surprised with a fantastic view looking west over the Gaslamp district, the convention center, and the rest of downtown. While peering out the window, we noticed an amazing wrap-around balcony to our right and knew we had to have the first look there. So, we left Catherine’s room in search of the room that with the balcony. Turns out the room was newly occupied by a bunch of guys that graciously gave us the thumbs up to take over their room for our first look shoot. Once Catherine and Wilbur were ready to go, we sent Wilbur out to wait on the balcony. When Catherine tapped on his shoulder and he set eyes on her for the first time in her wedding dress, he just couldn’t help letting a few tears escape. The moment was simply perfect.

After a quick photo session, the party headed down to the pool deck for a beautiful, classic ceremony officiated by a good friend of theirs. A few more pics and everyone funneled downstairs for the cocktail hour and reception. From heartfelt speeches to a performance by a traditional Filipino dance troupe, the reception was truly enjoyable. In fact, both Catherine and Wilbur both used to be a part of that dance troupe and jumped in at several points to show off their skills. Then, Wilbur surprised everyone with an acoustic performance of the Plain White T’s Rhythm of Love for Catherine. Such a perfect night.

Congratulations, Catherine and Wilbur!! We were so privileged to have shared in such a beautiful day with the two of you.

Vendors:

Cinematography: Weddings by FortyOneTwenty
Photography: David & Kim Baxter (Ohana Photographers)
Venue Coordinator: Rebecca Zweig (Hard Rock Hotel San Diego)
Event Coordinator: Herna Cruz-Louie
DJ: Arlo Magpantay (3 Style Attractions)
Florist: Tess Parea (Tessilk Flowers)
Bakery: Sumithra Ramu (Sumi’s Oven)
Officiant: Anjo Sanchez

It’s been awhile since we last shot in the tower at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay…about a year to be exact. It was great the first time with Stephen & Caroline and this time with Jen & Brian was no exception. While Jen went through the usual hair and makeup rituals and Brian scrambled to get last minute items ready, everyone nervously watched the weather. The morning started out clear and sunny but we were soon enveloped in a heavy mist, bordering on rain. However, before Jen had to make the decision to move her ceremony indoors, the sun broke through and the rest of the day was perfect. It was good thing the sun came out too otherwise Brain and his guys wouldn’t have been able to hit the hotel’s pool and water slides!!  Being a groom is tough work

The ceremony took place at a nice little garden area out near the front entrance of the Hyatt. It was beautiful of course, and by the end, everyone was ready to party with Jen & Brian at the reception in the big tent next door.

Congratulations Jen & Brian!!

Vendors:

Cinematographer: Weddings by FortyOneTwenty
Photographers: Jen & Shane (Acqua Photo – check out Jen & Brian’s pics here)
Officiant: Fr. Stephen Gregory

There aren’t many better ways I can think of to start a morning than looking out over a calm, quiet harbor at Mission Bay. There’s something just relaxing and peaceful about it. This also makes it the perfect setting for a bride and her girls to begin getting ready for the wedding day festivities. Once Honeylette was dressed and stunning, we left the Suites at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay and headed south to the impressive Iglesia Ni Cristo church in Chula Vista. With a full choir to back them up, Jay and Honeylette made their vows and elatedly departed as husband and wife.

After pics with family and friends were completed, we all headed north back to the Hyatt for the reception in their huge, gorgeous, white tent. The rest of the night played out beautifully and we enjoyed every second being their to capture it. Congratulations Honeylette & Jay! We wish you both the best in your new life together!

Vendors:

Cinematographer: Weddings by FortyOneTwenty
Photographer: Joan Solitario (es-sense photography)
Venue Coordinator: Hillary Ginsberg (Hyatt Regency Mission Bay)
Hair & Make-Up: Joanna Lopez