Amelia and Alvin were married at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, a luxurious Mediterranean-style estate located just north of San Diego. They are both of Chaldean heritage, and wanted their wedding to be a celebration of their shared cultural traditions. When we arrived to photograph Amelia, and saw her sporting this stunning lace-satin dress, we knew we had to find an equally stunning backdrop to show it off.

By using creative shoot-through techniques and arches, we used our environment to create frames around this amazing bride. This highlighted Amelia’s dress in the image compositions, while drawing focus to her.

As is customary, the bride and groom began the day in separate locations, and waited until the ceremony to see each other.

Once she was ready to show off her final look, guests gathered at Amelia’s home for a special Chaldean ceremony. Amelia was escorted out, and was greeted with music and cheers.

Meanwhile, our groom Alvin was getting ready at a location nearby with his groomsmen.

With pocket aces hidden up his sleeve, our groom took home the gold. We love adding playful ideas like this fun set up shot of Alvin beating his buddies. Adding a bit of humor throughout the day helps to keep things light-hearted, and adds laughter to the wedding gallery.

Amelia and Alvin chose to exchange vows at their local church, St. Peter Chaldean Church in El Cajon.

Following the ceremony, Amelia and Alvin invited guests to the alluring Fairmont Grand Del Mar for a ballroom reception. Just before the couple’s grand entrance, we walked the property together, and made good use of the diverse backdrops all around. The venue’s grand staircases and Mediterranean-inspired archways beautifully complimented the pair’s modern glamor.

We loved using Amelia’s long veil in a variety of fun ways (extending it out, shooting through it) to add a whimsical sense of awe and drama.

At the reception, Amelia and Alvin joined friends and family for a festive zeffa dance, which is a Chaldean wedding tradition. The zeffa dance invites everyone onto the dance floor, and encourages all to congratulate and dance with the bride and groom.

The room was full of energy and love for the newly married couple, making for an unforgettable evening!

For more amazing moments from Amelia and Alvin’s modern wedding, please click here.