We just love when elegance meets the sands of an Orange County beach. As Professional Photographers, we love taking in weddings that have a lot of detail, even though some wedding venues are a little more difficult to pull that off with. Then add in two very special people and you have the ingredients for a successful wedding ceremony and reception. But for these two, it’s more than just the wedding, it’s a lifetime together of pure happiness.
Sarah and Richard hosted an absolutely perfect ocean-inspired Summer wedding at the Ocean Institute in Dana Point Harbor. All of the turquoise, cream and white touches throughout the day came together so nicely and made for a stunning celebration! From the cream and turquoise get-ups that the groom and his guys wore, to the gorgeous flowing turquoise gowns that the ladies had, the beachy ocean theme rang true throughout.
Although the bright turquoise was the main color for this gorgeous day, Sarah definitely stole the show in her white mermaid-silhouette gown! She finished off her elegant bridal look with beautifully done make-up and hair, and a blooming white and blue bouquet.
After their outdoor ceremony on the terrace, the celebration moved indoors where the party started with some awesome music.
We would really like to thank Sarah and Richard for allowing Three16 Photography to be part of your special day. We wish you many years of love and happiness.
Check out their love story. We hope you enjoy it, and their photos, as much as we do.
Sarah and Richard’s Love Story
How did you both meet and who liked who first?
We met playing co-ed softball in Fullerton. I was going to school at Cal State University Fullerton and we both got recruited by his groomsman Adam Morgan, who knew both of us and wanted us to play softball. We still play every Friday night (now in Orange) and our team is called the Sons of Pitches. I pursued him, but he was the one that made the first move.
Tell us about your first date. Who was more nervous and what did you guys do?
We hung out at one of his legendary parties. We sat and talked all night. Then we hung out the next day and sat on his roof sharing beverages and getting to know one another under the stars. We both have never felt nervous around the other and have always felt comfortable like we could be ourselves from the very beginning.
What’s the proposal story? Give us all the details and tell us who cried first?
He proposed at my father’s restaurant Ruth Chris in Irvine on our fifth-year anniversary. He had been acting weird all day. My fiancé worked with my dad and the staff to make it extra special. During dessert he got up to presumably go to the bathroom and suddenly was down on one knee with the ring in the lighted box. I could see people filming and taking pictures. I saw my dad smiling and the wait staff holding their breaths. I couldn’t believe it and didn’t even hear him ask me to marry me. I was in shock and the first thing I said was, “Are you serious?” since I was totally surprised. I said yes and they got out the champagne. My dad gave me a hug and we all took pictures. My fiancé was so excited he posted it all over social media. I was calling family at 2am, it was one of the best nights of my life.
As you approach the wedding day, what have you both enjoyed most about the wedding planning process?
I think what I have enjoyed the most is just how much more loving my fiancé has become. He helps with the planning and has really been there for me. I feel like we just started dating again and everything is exciting and new. It’s like we are dating all over again and we have come together as a couple. I see him relaxed more and be excited for the future more. I think his favorite was the cake/food tastings. Mine was finding my dream dress.
What has been the hardest part about planning your wedding?
At one point I broke down in tears because finding all the vendors and planning everything by yourself is such hard work. I went through three different make-up and hair trials before finding my perfect match. My engagement photos weren’t up to my standards and had to start from scratch. My sister-in-law dropped out as a bridesmaid and he has a groomsman that isn’t returning his calls or texts.
Why did you choose your particular wedding and reception venue?
It is my hometown and it fits the ocean/beach theme since it is an aquarium. We really didn’t want to get married at a golf course, church or on the beach per se. This was the right price and allowed for customization.
Where did you draw some of your inspiration from for your wedding day?
I guess Pintrest, talking to my wedding planner and MOH.
Where are you going for the honeymoon? Are you excited and why did you choose that destination?
Sandals St. Lucia All-Inclusive Resort with a butler and pool in our room. Water sports and golf included. We chose it because we wanted a room with a pool and a butler. We wanted to relax and eat/drink as much as we want while still enjoying some sports.
Vendors used for Sarah and Richard’s gorgeous Ocean Institute Wedding:
WEDDING VENUE: Ocean Institute
24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point, CA 92629
WEDDING COORDINATOR: Golden Dot
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY: Three16 Photography
FLORIST: 800 Rose Big
CATERER: Richard Jones Pit BBQ
CAKE: Old World Bakery
HAIR & MAKE-UP: Vanity Belle
DRESS: Blush Bridal Couture
Brand / Designer: Martina Liana
GROOM’S SUIT: Mens Warehouse
DECOR: Bel Events
PHOTO BOOTH: A Sweet Memory Photo Booth
CHAIR COVERS: Events by Angie G
CHARGER PLATES: Something Borrowed Party Rentals
Loved reading about Richard and Sarah’s Ocean Institute Wedding? Show them some love by liking and commenting below! Also check out another one of our recent blog posts: Joey and Laura’s Stunning Fairy-tale Wedding!
