From the moment we arrived at Nella Terra on Lauren and Rigel’s wedding day, we knew this was going to be an extraordinary celebration. We are fortunate to be a preferred vendor with Nella Terra, and even though we are there frequently, we are always taken aback by its beauty. The stunning white tent and lush vineyard setting were perfect backdrops for Lauren and Rigel's wedding. The venue's unique charm, from the beautiful staircase to the seamless guest flow, truly set the stage for an unforgettable day.
Plus, the wedding was on the day of their 10 year dating anniversary, making it even more special and spectacular.
How They Met
We have to briefly tell their story - from how they met to when they got engaged - because all of it is just so endearing.
In 2012, Rigel spotted Lauren dancing on stage to Bangarang by Skrillex during a philanthropy event. He had to know who this amazing woman was! He will never forget everything about that moment, down to what she wore and the dance moves. A whole year later in 2013, Rigel saw Lauren again while at Target. Even though he was under the weather, he finally asked her out and their first date was at Pizza My Heart. Lauren cheesily told us, "Needless to say, he stole a pizza my heart." Super cute!
In 2022, Rigel proposed to Lauren while they were on an early morning hot air balloon ride in Temecula. Of course she said yes, both of them so excited to begin the next stage of their lives together.
Now, on to the wedding day!
Getting Ready: A Morning of Anticipation
The day began at Status Salon Bridal Suite, where Lauren and her bridesmaids used the space to get ready and use their incredible hair and makeup services. J'aime Bridal provided Lauren’s gown, a stunning creation that made her look like she had stepped out of a fairy tale. Her bridesmaids, dressed in beautiful Birdy Grey gowns, complemented her elegance perfectly. Everyone did a phenomenal job and the bridal party looked absolutely radiant.
Over at the AC Hotel, Rigel and his groomsmen were donning their sharp Black Tux suits. The atmosphere was filled with raucous excitement as they prepared for the day ahead.
The Ceremony: A Heartfelt Exchange
It was important to Lauren that both her mom and dad walk her down the aisle, so that her mom be just as present as her dad on such an important moment. The three of them looked stunning together, walking down the aisle with the vineyard as a backdrop.
Lauren and Rigel's brother-in-law officiated, bringing a personal touch that made the ceremony feel intimate and special. They exchanged vows they had written themselves, and you could feel the emotion in the air. The couple was in their own world, despite being surrounded by loved ones. This heartfelt moment was one of the most touching ceremonies I've had the pleasure to photograph.
A Surprise Entrance and Two Dances to Remember
One of the highlights of the day was the couple's grand entrance and first dance. Lauren and Rigel, both dancers, had taken lessons and prepared a special routine that wowed their guests. They started with a fun grand entrance dance, immediately flowing into their choreographed first dance. It was a beautiful expression of their love and connection, and the guests absolutely loved it.
During the traditional father-daughter dance, Rigel escorted his new mother-in-law to the dance floor for a surprise mother-daughter dance. It was another moment very important to Lauren, who felt it important to include her mom with something that traditionally only includes the father. The look of pure love on her mom's face throughout the dance was absolutely beautiful. They will both cherish this moment for the rest of their lives.
Capturing Unique Moments
As photographers, we're always looking for those unique shots that make each wedding memorable. Lauren mentioned her love for cows, so we called the cows down the hill to be part of the wedding photos, creating a charming and whimsical backdrop. It was a moment that truly reflected Lauren’s personality and added a special touch to the day.
Another memorable moment was when one of the groomsmen ripped his pants before the ceremony. Thanks to the amazing team at Simply Lovely, the pants were sewn back together just in time. Alas, the groomsman’s pants continued to rip throughout the reception, much to the amusement of the guests who thought he was tearing up the dance floor, despite being a self-confessed wallflower.
The Reception: Music, Dancing, and Surprises
The reception under the beautiful white tent, lit with incredible lighting from Ace Entertainment, was filled with laughter, dancing, and heartfelt speeches. Andy Rossi from Second Song was the DJ, and he did a fantastic job keeping the energy high and the dance floor packed.
Rigel surprised everyone with a DJ set of his own, looking out at his friends and family dancing and singing along. It was a surreal and joyful moment for the couple, and we are thrilled that we were able to capture the sheer delight on their faces.
Due to the cloudy weather, the day was perfect for photos. We love how the overcast sky provided soft, diffused light that made the colors pop, and the beautiful chandelier inside the tent stood out against the gloomy backdrop. After cocktail hour, just as Lauren and Rigel were about to make their grand entrance, the first raindrop fell. By the time Lauren's dad gave his speech, it started to downpour. Watching the rain through the clear tent, feeling cozy inside, and sitting at their sweetheart table, made for a magical and intimate setting.
A Perfect Ending to a Perfect Day
The day ended with a stroll outside, where Lauren and Rigel purposefully took a moment to soak in the joy of their wedding. They watched their guests dancing, laughing, and celebrating their love. It was a beautiful way to conclude a day that was not only a celebration of their marriage but also of their ten year journey together.
Lauren and Rigel's wedding was a testament to their love, their personalities, and the strong bond they share with their friends and family. It was an honor to capture these moments and to be part of such a special day. Here's to a lifetime of happiness for The Garmans!
Lauren and Rigel's Wedding Photo Gallery
featuring Nella Terra Cellars.
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