A Morning of Love & Laughter | Getting Ready and Some Details

The day began in a charming Airbnb, just a few miles down the road from Powell Gardens, where Hideko (Hidee as she's known to her friends) got ready surrounded by her closest friends and family. The space buzzed with excitement as she had her hair and makeup done before driving to Powell Gardens to don her dress. Her bridal details perfectly reflected her style, but the most sentimental item was a pin with her grandmother's face inlaid on one end. Hidee's grandmother was one of the most influential matriarchs in her life and though she could not be there in person, she was undoubtedly there in spirit. Another homage Hidee paid to her grandmother was by wearing her kimono while she got ready.

After getting ready and collecting the finishing touches for the day ahead, we drove the short trip over to Powell Gardens to get Hidee into her dress in preparation for her first look with her dad and then her soon-to-be husband, Noah. She wore Adele by All Who Wander, which elegantly matched the garden theme of the day and beautifully flattered her curves and stature.

Tearful First Looks | A Father’s Love & A Groom’s Joy

Before seeing Noah, Hidee shared a private first look with her dad. As he turned to see his daughter in her wedding dress, his reaction said everything. It was then compounded as Hidee shared her gift for him. It was a beautiful, emotional moment that set the tone for the rest of the day.

Then came the moment Hidee and Noah had been waiting for—their first look at Powell Gardens. Standing amidst the lush greenery, Noah anxiously awaited the tap on his shoulder. The moment he turned around, his face lit up with emotion, unable to hold back the tears that welled behind his glasses. The two shared a quiet, intimate moment together, soaking in the significance of the day before heading into their ceremony.

A Ceremony Surrounded by Nature | Saying "I Do" at Marjorie Powell Allen Chapel

The ceremony took place inside the breathtaking Marjorie Powell Allen Chapel, an architectural gem with a post and beam structure and soaring glass windows that let the beauty of nature pour in. As guests took their seats, the sunlight filtered through the trees, casting a soft glow inside the chapel.

The doors opened, and Hidee walked down the aisle, arm in arm with her teary-eyed father while her mother awaited them, ready to officiate the ceremony. Their vows were heartfelt, filled with love, laughter, and solemn promises for the future. As they exchanged rings and shared their first kiss as husband and wife, their guests erupted into cheers.

As they exited the chapel, loved ones showered them with dried flower petals—a whimsical, romantic touch that made for the most beautiful moment and photos.

Portraits in the Gardens | A Dreamy Backdrop for Newlywed Moments

During cocktail hour, we explored Powell Gardens for bridal portraits, and the scenery was absolutely stunning. From winding garden paths to vine covered gazeboes, every spot felt like it was made for Hidee and Noah’s love story. It was also an ideal opportunity for the two newlyweds to enjoy some quiet time together before the grand party to follow.

The Start to a Celebration to Remember | First Dances and Speeches

With the guests and wedding party all seated, Hidee and Noah made an beautiful entrance into their reception, heading straight into their first dance. Their song choice was Honeymoon (Forever) by hellogoodbye and was the perfect reflection of their relationship, and they swayed together as guests watched with love-filled tears in their eyes.

From there, emotions continued to run high as family and friends gave heartfelt speeches. All of them were poignant in their own way, but Hidee's father in particular tugged at everyone's heart strings.

Golden Hour Magic & A Night of Dancing

Before the dance floor filled up, we snuck away for golden-hour portraits, and it was so worth it. The soft evening light bathed them in a pink and golden romantic glow as they shared a few more quiet moments together before rejoining their guests. These portraits are always some of my favorites because they capture the pure joy of the day, away from the hustle and bustle of the celebration.

Then, it was time to party! The dance floor was packed as guests celebrated with good tunes, strong drinks, and plenty of sweets. A perfect and easy ending to one of the most beautiful weddings that I have had the privilege of documenting.