Candise + Jon | Post modern DIY wedding

When I hear DIY the first things I think of is fake flowers, $100 discount dress, and plastic table cloths from the dollar store. Little did I know I would be walking into one of the most beautiful weddings I have ever witnessed.

Not only was this wedding beautiful, But It was also so much fun photographing! The love these two amazing individuals share fills my heart! From frolicking around the desert and cacti drinking beer and watching the sunset, to ending up in Temecula, California with them… I’d say overall, we’ve had an amazing adventure together. 

I was really excited to photograph at the secluded gardens again, and I am blown away at how different it looks every time I’m there! (being a Wedding photographer you shoot as some of the same venues sometimes) But the more amazing thing is that Candise made most everything you see pictured. If she didn’t make it, she styled it! She spent hours upon hours (I can’t even imagine how much time it all took!) putting everything together, and the amount of care she put into every detail truly shined on the wedding day. It all came together splendidly. She purchased two dresses: (both off of poshmark) and completely reconstructed them. An outfit change on your wedding day is always legit. ALWAYS. Jon’s shirt is from Asos and it was sick, and honestly, I’m stoked at how well everything flowed together. She purchased an incredible, hand-made crown from Amaroq design, and it was essentially the cherry on top. The vibrant colors she picked just popped in the greenery of spring. The pinks, the blues, the greens pulled every aspect of her dream wedding into one, epic success story. It got even better when I saw all the beautiful and amazing (and hilarious) bridal party. All of them looked so bad ass together. BUT WAIT. It gets EVEN BETTER, because they had a vintage CAR, an amazing moon photo-op for guests (and Colby and I, of course), and a gorgeous neon light illuminating the last name they now share for the rest of their lives. 

Every moment that unfolded from this day was not only beautiful, but it was inspiring. Their loved ones cried tears of joy for them in these big moments. The toasts were heartfelt and full of cherished memories from their favorite people. Their bridal party surrounded them with inside jokes, complements, support, and a damn good time. Everyone laughed and drank the night away, celebrating two people who came together to create one epic couple. All the amazing weekends they spent together hiking with the pups, listening to music by the fire, and drinking beer; all the mischievous smiles she’d give him when she’s messing with him, all the years they’ve known each other came to this wonderful day, all tied up in a bow. It was an absolute honor to be a part of something that was meant to be for so long. Congratulations, you beautiful people! I’m so honored I got to be there and photograph such an immensely special event in your lives. I hope you get that tiny “shit house” as you call it, and renovate it into the home of your dreams. All the happiness and all the joy forever! Let’s get drinks soon! 

Each Miss matched bridesmaids dress was ordered postmark either from For Love & Lemons or Free People.

Getting ready photos are such a special moment of your wedding day. Once the wedding day gets rolling everything moves so fast, but this is a time to soak in and enjoy with your girls and even more importantly your mom. Candise’s mom had one request, all she wanted was to help Candise get into her dress.

Photography & Videography | @uriel_photography Floral & Coordination | @bellaflorinaeventsRentals & Styling | @witty_rentalsPaper Moon Photo Booth | @nicoleburbankevents Catering | @mexicocitycuisine Hair | @hair.by.jamieqrosa Makeup | @dominiquerosemakeupart DJ | @sleepinggiantmusic@djramseyDesserts | @lerendezvous.frenchbakery CROWN | @amaroqdesign