If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I’m a sucker for moments that thrill and showcase personality in a BIG way. There is no “right” way to celebrate a wedding. There are a multitude of traditions and ceremonious customs with which to honor those tried and true beliefs that marriage is a journey of two people – who can’t live without each other, facing the world together for better or worse. However, from my experience, the greatest celebrations are a blend of tradition and “whatever the #$%@” makes you happy! 

So, when I tell you that Janel and Jake’s wedding was one of the most perfect pairings of tradition meets personality you know it was off the hook. Hawk Ranch in Murrieta, CA, the neighboring town to Temecula, was the backdrop for these two rock stars tying the knot, a venue made more timeless by the pond and grassy knolls. The seclusion offered by Hawk Ranch accents the surrounding wine country of Temecula with beautiful wide open spaces offered in Murrieta, and thriving peppercorn trees which serve to veil the surrounding area from view. The ceremony took place in front of the pond and was brilliant. Whitney Graham of Everly by MGE coordinated the details, she’s freaking amazing! It showcased a structure adorned with blooming flowers. The pampas grass celebrated with every sweeping breeze and guests clung to every word of Janel and Jake’s heartfelt vows. This moment was even more personal through unique love and friendship. And also, a puppy named Pixel – the cutest ring bearer of all time who executed the role perfectly for the record. 

Every photographer’s dream is to work with a couple bold enough to be themselves in front of the camera. A couple who surrounds themselves with a supporting cast of family and friends sharing that tenacity for life which heightens moments both big and small – especially those moments spent coming up with creative and hilarious poses for portraits, capturing this spirit of the moment is easy with a great bridal party. Genuine love, romance and laughter tell the story of a lifetime worth of memories. These are the qualities that create picture perfect moments throughout the wedding day. Jake and Janel don’t conform much at all, and that’s what makes them exceptional. 

Throughout the night, while surrounded by family and friends, these two wild romantics continued to deliver on breathtaking moments. Janel, the complete icon that she is, snuck out of the reception and swapped out the traditional white dress and made a grand reentrance in an elegant and edgy wedding gown draped in all black – while My Chemical Romance’s, “Welcome to the Black Parade” served as a theme song to this highlight moment. It was such a personal touch that could only be matched in creativity and showmanship by what followed. Jake, being an actual singer/songwriter serenading his bride during the reception, was one of the greatest displays of owning the moment and making it entirely yours (even though technically the entire wedding is YOUR moment, obviously.)

These elements of personality make these memories that much more intimate and that much more meaningful. We can all take a page out of Jake and Janel’s book to live a little more boldly and much more ourselves during these milestones in life. And, in that, we will find the right way of celebrating such an amazing occasion is… however it feels right! Thanks Jake and Janel, and congratulations to the beautiful start to the rest of your lives together, continue to march to the sound of your own drums. If these thrills are more your speed than an average wedding, I like your style and would love to chat about your wedding goals, click HERE to get the ball rolling.

Groom: Jake Bride: Janel VENDOR INFORMATION: Venue: @hawkranchweddings Planner: @whitney_everlybymge, @everlybymge Florist: @soireefloraldesign Photography: @archer_inspired DJ: @voxdjs Catering: @catering_temecula Dessert: @cakerellacreations Beauty Team: @itsada