Anchor ties and Nike skate shoes on, the boys steamed away at the O Hotel in downtown LA. The girls were already cozied up at the Marvimon, laughing and toasting to all the bestest things. Amanda’s dress straight-up took my breath away… the gauzy layers and glittering sash just floored me. Of course, the gals were all in sparkly golden heels. Amanda also wore the most seriously rad vintage aqua chunky jewelry. No joke, that bracelet belonged to her grandma. AMAZE. I swooned repeatedly at seeing all the layers of teals and seafoam and aquas, extra-specially in the coordinating bridesmaids’ (and moms’) dresses.

The Marvimon is an incredible venue, and I do not exaggerate when I say it was a dream come true to shoot there. Built in 1924, it started out as a racecar showroom. Much of its history has been beautifully preserved while delightful modern updates and chic style have been added. I kept catching my breath everywhere I looked. Amanda (talented designer that she is) made the very most of its magic, bringing in the most fun and fabulous summery  touches to every tabletop and backdrop. From the wooden table names (all southern california geographics!), to the succulent planters (done themselves!), to the striped napkins, it was so snazzy, and so them. I loves how she made mason jars way more refined, and that sequined table runner killed me.

I think I got caught on the beauty marks on Amanda’s back, like a constellation. And how about the heart-shaped sequined barrettes? One of the coolest projects that wowed me was their big, bold, graphic guestbook. A wall of envelopes, awaiting secret and private messages that would soon be integrated into a dazzling album.

Their incredible ceremony, nestled in a courtyard wrapped all in succulents, was unplugged. Meaning every guest put down his or her cell phone, set aside their cameras, and connected deeply to this moving marriage. I can’t fully tell you how wonderful it was to see every guest fully engaged, involved in this beautiful tradition. As Amanda said—they wanted to invite the guests to enjoy not just how the wedding looked, but how it felt. They decided to warm the rings by passing them through the hands of every single person present, who could say a prayer or make a wish, investing themselves and their support in this union. The emotions and the tenderness were palpable from everyone.

We escaped with the whole bridal party to bask in this grand city. Beside speeding cars we adventured, trekking all the way to an abandoned lot that allowed these gorgeous people to positively glow before the grandness of the LA skyline. Miles of laughter and love abounded.

Amanda and Matt were fearless in their snuggling, and I loved every minute of it. Their kissing and canoodling in this vacant lot led to more kissing and canoodling in a grove of trees, and then some more kissing and canoodling in front of some incredible graffiti. YES PLEASE.

Beneath the raw wood rafters, and before an elated audience of gleeful guests, so many wholehearted words were spoken and love shared. Amanda’s father might possibly have made me cry more than once. And Matt’s grandpa definitely made me laugh my rear off. Such wonderful stories. Such bright, shining people.

Cupcakes and dancing and deliciousness. I felt like I was gorging on fun for this entire night. Just thinking back on it now gives me that feeling of buoyancy and beauty that comes from hope and love and happiness. What a treasure and a treat to be able to have indulged together with such a raucous and utterly sweet community as they rallied together in the glittering joy and wonder of these two people, together for the long haul. I can’t imagine a day more ideal for these two. A dream. A wonderful, wonderful dream.

If you want to check out the stop-motion video of their amazing day, Stephanie Collins just posted it!

TALENT ROLL CALL: Photography: Let’s Frolic Together / Assistant Photography: Jamie Lawler / Venue: Marvimon House, Los Angeles / Coordinator: East West Event Productions / Catering: Savour This Moment / Dessert: Sprinkles Cupcakes / Florist: Clementine Floral Works / Videography: Stephanie Collins / DJ: TheMarknessLA / Officiant: Eric Shwartz / Hair & Makeup: Self-done with bridesmaids / Dress: Saja / Headband: Bando / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Simple Dress / Tuxes: Jean Yves / Shoes: Nine West & Nike / Rentals: Orchid Party Rentals / Bartending: Catered Cocktails