Saturday, October 8, 2016

Mark and Juan: Hot Air Balloon Wedding

Juan is the brother of Elizabeth, who I photographed her wedding this past July.  He was so impressed with the photos, that he and his fiance Mark asked to book me for their hot air balloon wedding.  Well of course I would!  Colorful hot air balloons, Temecula Wine Country, and a gorgeous couple.

I had to get up extremely early that day since the balloons lift off at dawn.  With coffee in hand, I met everyone next to South Coast Winery and we then followed the balloon company to a secret spot for lift off.  Since the basket could only hold up to 12 people, cuts had to be made on who could witness their I Do's.  Both mothers were on board plus the family priest and a few others.  After a short prayer asking to keep everyone safe, they lifted off towards the sky on a journey that would change everything. With multiple photographers, we were able to get both take off photos from the ground and images shot from inside the basket.

The reception was held at Juan's mother's home in Pauma Valley.  They used a rustic decor and everything looked amazing.  After meeting everyone at his sister's wedding previously, I felt like family and was so honored to be part of the special day...and night.