Ryan & Jessica's Romantic Wedding at Marina Village of San Diego, CA

Ryan messaged me on a nice day in March of 2018 asking me to photograph his wedding in September of 2018. Ryan and I have been friends since second grade which is 20+ years ago. So hearing the news that he is getting married to his 7 year girlfriend, I could not be happier for him.
Jessica and Ryan started their story 7 years ago when they were new hires at a college bookstore. I met Jessica back then when they first started, she was a bit shy but was very nice to us (I was traveling to San Diego with 2 other friends). Fast forward to 7 years later when they were at a beach, Jessica and Ryan were both enjoying the California weather as they were walking. Jessica wanted to catch some clams. She did not want to get her hands dirty so she was digging with her foot. Ryan then got on his knee and Jessica thought he was trying to help her dig. But unlike what she was thinking, Ryan pulled a small ring box from his pocket, looked up, and said “Look what I found, something better than a clam!” And they were engaged!
I flew into San Diego International airport at midnight. And despite of me telling Ryan and his twin brother, Nick, that they do not need to pick me up as I would have a rental car and more than anything, I don’t want to disturb their sleep. But they came to the airport to pick me up anyway. That is how they have always been to me, super sweet. We hung out the next day while also got ready for the wedding on Saturday. The brothers and their significant others were so hospitable showing me around town and taking me to nice restaurants.
Wedding day came. I started at Jessica’s house for her getting ready. The special bond between Jessica and her family is something that I was honored to witness. Jessica’s mom helped her to get ready, and even though her eye sight was not that great, she still managed to button all of Jessica’s wedding dress back buttons. The church ceremony was meaningful with a lot of Ryan and Jessica’s families and friends. After the church ceremony we drove to Balboa Park for some outdoor photos. It was a gorgeous day! On the way to the venue, The Marina Village, something about San Diego weather surprised me. It could be a nice sunny day in the city but as soon as we reach the bay area, the sky became cloudy. However, the venue was absolutely stunning. I, as a friend and a photographer, had so much fun during the reception. A lot of people participated in Ryan and Jessica’s money dance, and we laughed so hard during the garner toss. Good job, Ryan! And then they just danced the night away.
Vendors:
Photographer: Half A Rice Studios
Videographer: Willmus Weddings
HMUA: HMH Beauty
Venue: Marina Village
Wedding Dress: Bridal & Veil
Cake: Ranch Events
DJ: DJ Evan
Officiant: Church at St Patrick
Decor and Lighting: Ranch Events and Jessica’s family