The start of the day was quiet. Maayan spent the morning getting ready with her sisters and soon to be sisters-in-law before heading to the venue where two of her sisters helped her into her dress. Gabe waited patiently for the first look in the groom’s suite - when asked what he thought her dress might look like, his response was “I genuinely have no idea, but I know it’ll be beautiful.”
Their first look was sweet - Gabe was right, Maayan was a vision descending the stairs before they hugged and exchanged “I love you’s”. We went all around the venue for couple’s portraits as family trickled in. My favorite photos of Maayan + Gabe were taken in the little green room because they highlight the fun nature of their love.
After some family photos, it was time to head upstairs for the Ketubah signing. It was a host of all emotions. People squeezed in as close as they could to get a glimpse of the marriage proposal becoming official. Laughing, crying, cheering, praying and singing - all of it shared amongst the crowd of family and friends. Joy was tangible.
Underneath the most beautiful Chuppah, Mayan + Gabe were officially married under Maayan’s late father’s talit. Though her dad was not able to be there in person, his spirit was felt throughout the day. Small details - like the cup that belonged to him that was used during the ceremony - were little reminders that he was close by.
Throughout the day Maayan + Gabe checked in with each guest, exchanging hugs, laughs and dances, and made sure they knew how much it meant that they were there to celebrate. Their intentionality was reciprocated as each guest poured compliments and congratulations over the couple throughout the night.
Each room in the Ebell Long Beach served the day in a unique way. Its charming getting ready room was perfect for both Maayan to get spend a quiet afternoon getting ready with her sisters, and for everyone to gather for the Ketubah signing. Its grand courtyard with black and white patterned tiles complimented the red and white florals and greenery strewn across the floating Chuppah, and was the perfect spot for everyone to dance the night away once dinner concluded. The dining hall was the perfect spot for everyone to listen to heartfelt toasts and a poem written by the bride’s sister in honor of their dad. The day unfolded seamlessly as events brought people from one space to the next.
All in all, this day was sentimental and sweet - just like Maayan and Gabe.
Back to features
VENUE: Ebell Long Beach
FLORALS: Lucky Wild free
PLANNER: pop the champagne
Video: Lero Movie
CATERING: TrÈs La
DJ: DJ alert entertainment
HAIR + Makeup: Angeleno beauty
Photobooth: hashtag photobooth
dog care: the wedding leash
DRESS: Serene Amé Bridal
Seamstress: Jocelyn dungca
captured on a mix of digital + film
