A WEEKEND OF LOVE IN ORANGE COUNTY
I first met Aissata through our shared love for Taylor Swift on TikTok. Back in 2021, we had been posting about our favorites through Swift’s discography and sharing our excitement for new releases when we became friends and joined a group of other Swifties across the country.
Aissata has a kindness that radiates about them, with a deep desire to sow open-mindedness, understanding, and radical love for all in every group they’re a part of. Becoming their friend was as easy as getting lunch with someone you’ve known for years.
When they texted me to tell me they were marrying Juno, I was over the moon excited and knew I wanted to be there with them both to celebrate. When they asked me to fly cross-country to photograph their two-day elopement, it was such an easy yes!
The day before I arrived, the two of them shared their vows and signed their marriage license at the Laguna Hills Civic Center.
When I landed that Sunday, I came straight to meet them at their cozy Orange County home to get ready for their beach celebration with friends and family. Their first home together boasted a citrus tree in the backyard that was especially important to them. We took a few photos outside with it before heading off to Huntington Beach!
After arriving at Huntington Beach, we were greeted by family and friends who had come from all over to celebrate the union! Lots of hugs and kisses were exchanged, and we settled into a tent setup for some food and cake! Nothing stressful or performative, just pure fun and connection.
The next day was portrait day! I personally think this is a great idea if you're hiring a photographer for the full weekend. It allows you time to move slowly and intentionally through your portraits without taking you away from the friends and family you invited to celebrate with. And these two took me on a tour of their relationship through Orange County, California.
Starting at the house they met in during college, we approached and asked the current tenant if we could sneak a few pictures on the front porch, and they were so kind to oblige. Bringing yourself back to the beginning of your relationship is such a meaningful way to utilize portraits together and reflect on how far you've come. This was truly a special moment!
Afterward, we headed North to Los Angeles to the Win-Dow burger joint. Aissata and Juno spent many a date night here over the course of their relationship, and after sharing a meal with them here, I completely understand why. YUM! The surrounding area was gorgeous too, so we snuck a couple more photos while we waited on lunch.
Finally, we battled a little bit of afternoon traffic and made our way back down to Laguna Beach right before sunset. Stopping by the civic center, where Aissta and Juno had just signed the papers 48 hours before, and then straight to the beach for the most beautiful sunset portraits I've ever taken. The perfect ending to an amazing elopement weekend.
Planning your own destination elopement?
I would love to be there, wherever your love story takes you next. Whether it be one day or a full weekend celebration, I offer premium packages for destination work that include film, digital, and coming soon--super 8 coverage! Inquire today, let's get to planning the wedding celebration you want, on your own terms.
