Marriott San Jose Wedding
This post is about Maria Elena and Jose’s Marriott San Jose Wedding. But first, let me say this. When I build relationships with my couples, often it’s truly for a lifetime. I’ve been fortunate to connect strongly with former wedding clients, to nurture those relationships, and to watch their lives develop. From the first few awkward shots of the engagement session, to the wedding itself, to baby bump, to kids. It’s amazing to mark the passage of time in this way, and to watch my couples’ families grow.
Two Engagement Shoots
Maria Elena, Jose and I connected in a very strong way before their Marriott San Jose wedding. We did not one, but two engagement sessions. The first in San Francisco, on chilly Baker Beach, and the second in Niles Canyon, near Fremont, where their love story began. It was an amazing way to develop our comfort level with each other, and to set expectations for their Marriott San Jose wedding day. I admired the couple’s sense of style, and their easy physical connection with one another. I also appreciated their endurance – especially when our Baker Beach engagement session turned chilly.
The Wedding Day – Ceremony
The couple held their ceremony at the historic Mission Santa Clara de Asis. This was a perfect way to honor the religious and traditional parts of their heritage. I love, love, love shooting in dark, moody places. Naturally I took full advantage. Before the ceremony I was able to sneak in some iconic shots of Jose and the groomsmen reflected in the grand piano. I captured the processional in my usual low-light, long exposure style, taking in as much of the warm ambient light as possible. After the ceremony we took formal photos on the altar, and then headed out into Santa Clara’s verdant courtyard for wedding party fun.
Marriott San Jose Wedding Reception
After a fun cocktail hour where Mariachis performed, the guests were invited to enter the reception room. Maria Elena and Jose’s reception was gorgeously decorated. The couple chose lots of elegant gold details, such as charger plates, menu fonts, and sequined tablecloths. This gave the wedding a very upscale feel, and made for great photo backdrops for yours truly. The Marriott’s wedding coordinator, Gigi, was super helpful, and even gave us access to the roof deck. There we got some awesome shots with the couple and wedding party. There were lots of emotional speeches, and some super high energy dancing. The party was a huge success.
Podcast
After the wedding, I invited Maria Elena and Jose to participate in my podcast. Their podcast episode focused on their relationship, and the experience of putting together their wedding celebration. It was really a treat to reconnect with the couple so many months after the wedding day, to relive their experience and find out what they learned.
I am excited for my relationship with Maria Elena and Jose to stay warm and connected as the years go by. In the meantime, this post is a pleasant way to relive the memories. Enjoy!
