Natalie and Patrick had a gorgeous and fun summer outdoor wedding at Gold Coast Farms near Laguna Beach, California. Read their love story to find inspiration for your summer outdoor wedding!
First, The Engagement Photos
I met Natalie and Patrick in 2019 via Instagram. Our paths crossed when I posted on Instagram looking for a couple to model for me in Yosemite National Park. The couple had recently gotten engaged and were willing to make the 4 hour drive to meet up with me. We started in Yosemite Valley and then hiked up to Taft Point to take some stunning engagement photos. Years later, these are still a few of my favorite photos I ever have taken. Just look at them!
About a year later Natalie reached out to me to photograph their wedding in Aliso Viejo, California. I was over the moon excited to see these two again and document more of their memories! And now, I am finally getting around to sharing their love story on the blog…
Natalie & Patrick’s Summer Outdoor Wedding Day
This is my first time at Gold Coast Farms, so when I arrive at the venue I acquaint myself with their team and Natalie’s Wedding Planner, Sammie. Then, I check into the bride suite where Natalie is getting ready.
While the girls continue to get ready and drink mimosas I took detail photos of Natalie’s dress, made by Casablanca Bridal and the rings. Then once Patrick got to the venue I took a couple detail shots of him. The groom’s details are just as important. Patrick got his initials embroidered onto the cuff of his shirt, making for a lovely detail shot.
The First Look
Natalie and Patrick chose to do a first look prior to their ceremony. This gave them a moment to themselves where they read private vows to each other.
The Bridal Party
Next, we took family and bridal party photos before all the guests arrived for the ceremony. This helped the day run more smoothly! If you aren’t dead set on having your first look be down the aisle, I would highly recommend doing a first look and photos before the ceremony!
The Ceremony
Time to say ‘I do’ in front of their beautiful floral arch!
The Reception
Natalie & Patrick’s reception is filled with people that love them. They have some beautiful tablescapes with beautiful florals from their florist Francesca.
Kicking off the reception with a fun grand entrance from the bridal party, bride and groom!
They provided their guests with a yummy catered dinner and the most aesthetically beautiful dessert table to pick from.
A few of their loved ones gave speeches after dinner before moving to the dance floor.
Lets Dance!
Natalie’s dance with her dad was lively and fun. Now I know where she gets it from! And Patrick’s dance with his mom was very sweet. The sun really showed off during their first dance making for magical shots!
Now it’s time to party! This was such a fun wedding to photograph because everyone was drinking, dancing and having fun. Natalie is the life of the party and was always on the dance floor!
These two wanted to cut the cake privately before send off. I thought this was a sweet moment for the two of them.
Then everyone lined up with their bubble guns for send off!
Pro tip: bubble send offs are so fun, but individual packs of bubbles alone aren’t enough. Be sure to have 3-4 bubble gun machines so you can see all the bubbles in the air! Click here for the best affordable 2 pack of bubble guns. They have different style and color options to choose from.
Natalie and Patrick’s wedding was full of fun and smiles. The weather was great! A little hot during the peak of the day, but a beautiful summer evening. I had a great time documenting their special day. If you’ve liked these photos and are looking for a wedding photographer, reach out to me and see if I have your date available!
Here is more inspiration for your summer wedding day:
Ashley & Alex: Summer Mountain Wedding
Zion Wedding Day: Ana & Zach
