Wedding Recap: Colby and Gabby

Colby and Gabby. I fell in love with these two the moment I met them and knew their day was going to be amazing. The first word I think of looking back on their wedding is “authentic”. Their day felt creatively, genuinely, authentically theirs. I am especially excited to share this wedding because it was shot by one of my FAVORITE photographers- Kenzie Kate, and at one of my FAVORITE venues in LA- Valentine.

Colby and Gabby spent the day getting ready together, with their closest friends and family at a nearby hotel. I love when couples choose to spend the day and get dressed together. While a true “first look” and the drama of spending the day separate is fun and exciting- the comfortability and sweetness of just doing the whole thing together is so unique.

They arrived to the venue together with their families, and because they didn’t have a huge wedding party, we actually did a mini-rehearsal on the day-of, before guest arrival. This is one of my favorite new tips I have been doing a lot with couples, and works great with laid back groups. Also have to add, the couple and many of their friends and family members are artists, so the fashion was ON POINT with this creative crew!

Colby and Gabby’s brothers stood up with them and the tears started even in our mini rehearsal!

Shout out the the sweet and talented Annie at Best Day Ever for the simple yet gorgeous florals. The venue is a really unique space that already has so much character. The decor and furniture is funky and colorful so Annie kept things monochromatic and modern.

Check out these rad programs, painted by Gabby’s artist mother!

Just before the ceremony, the ketubah was signed, and there was some sweet moments alone with the couple. I love to build in time within the day to relax, and enjoy the moment- there is very little time with just the two of you- drink it in!

Colby and Gabby stood under a chuppah and had a friend officiate their ceremony with blessings from family members and the absolute sweetest personal vows.

Always my favorite shot…the “HELL YES WE DID IT” vibe walking back down the aisle.

Once the party got started, the day felt like a warm holiday. Like everyone was family. Thanksgiving dinner but with a big ass dance party. Emotional toasts, copious cocktails, lots of tears.

As always, I like to ask my couples what their top 3 “lessons learned” are…from Colby and Gabby…

Be Present

Everyone will tell you that your wedding will pass by in a flash, and as much as we didn’t want to believe them, they were right. Try your best to remain present for as much of your engagement, planning process, and wedding as you can – we found it to be an especially magical time. It also helps in managing the potential stress of planning when you’re able to be present and enjoy the ride.

Take a Deep Breath

The last leg of wedding planning can feel overwhelming with a lot of little details to sort out, and the excitement of the day approaching. While it might feel really important in the last couple of weeks to spring for the more expensive flatware or last minute add-ons, we promise it is not. Take a deep breath, trust yourself and pace yourself.

Have Fun

It sounds simple and cliche, but there are many ways to get lost in the production of a wedding. Surround yourself with good people, and trust the vendors you’re working with. Take little breaks during the day when you need a moment of calm with your partner, and then get out there, have a drink, and enjoy!