Rancho Las Lomas Wedding | Mikey & Michelle
October 2023 brought one of the most memorable and personal weddings I've ever had the pleasure of photographing. Mikey and Michelle's wedding at Rancho Las Lomas in Silverado, California was the kind of day that reminded me exactly why I love what I do. As close friends, I had the unique opportunity to capture not only their wedding day but also their graduation, engagement, proposal, and other key moments in their journey together. That history made all the difference. I knew their story inside and out, and that connection brought an extra level of depth to every frame.
Getting Ready at the Marriott Irvine
The day started at the Marriott Irvine, where we took getting-ready shots with both sides. Michelle looked absolutely stunning in her bridal attire, and the morning was full of laughter, nerves, and all the best kind of energy. Mikey, with his Hawaiian and Samoan heritage, brought his own cultural style to the day, and it was clear from the start that this was going to be a celebration rooted in love and tradition.
One of the things that made this wedding stand out was the incredible trust Mikey and Michelle placed in me as their photographer and videographer. They gave me complete freedom to capture their day, which allowed us to take our time and create some truly magical moments. That kind of creative trust is something every photographer dreams of.
The Ceremony at Rancho Las Lomas
From the Marriott, we moved to the breathtaking Rancho Las Lomas, a venue nestled in the heart of Silverado Canyon. The venue's natural beauty, combined with thoughtful floral arrangements by Beautiest Florist and perfect weather, set the stage for an unforgettable ceremony. Rancho Las Lomas offered countless backdrops for stunning portraits, from its lush gardens to its rustic architecture, and I made sure to take full advantage of the venue's charm.
The ceremony itself was heartfelt and emotional. With Michael officiating, the vows felt personal and grounded. Surrounded by family and friends in one of Orange County's most beautiful outdoor settings, Mikey and Michelle exchanged their promises under the Silverado sky.
The Reception: A Celebration of Culture
Mikey's Hawaiian and Samoan heritage added a special layer of cultural richness to the evening. One of the highlights was the traditional Samoan dance during the reception. It was a beautiful way for Mikey and his family to honor their roots and share their culture with the guests. The joy and energy of the dance, paired with the elegance of Rancho Las Lomas and the couple's radiance, made for some truly spectacular moments to capture.
YC Entertainment kept the party going all night, and the mariachi performance by Mariachi Torres Max added another layer of celebration to an already incredible evening. Between the dancing, the food, and the love in the room, it was one of those receptions where nobody wanted the night to end.
The Venue: Why Rancho Las Lomas is Perfect for Weddings
Rancho Las Lomas is one of those venues that feels like a world of its own. Tucked away in Silverado Canyon, just a short drive from the rest of Orange County, it offers lush gardens, rustic stone architecture, and a sense of privacy that's hard to find elsewhere. As a wedding photographer, I love how the venue gives you so many different looks in one location. You can go from a garden portrait to a rustic archway to open hillside views within minutes.
For couples considering Rancho Las Lomas, I can say from experience that the venue photographs beautifully in every season. The natural light in the afternoon is incredible for portraits, and the transition into evening creates a warm, romantic atmosphere for receptions. It's one of the best wedding venues in Orange County for photography, and Mikey and Michelle's wedding proved that once again.
Photos and Video
The wedding day was full of emotional and heartfelt moments, and I was able to capture some of my best images ever at this event. Whether it was candid shots of the couple, tender moments with family, or the beautiful scenery, every element came together seamlessly. Having the freedom to experiment and take my time made all the difference in crafting a gallery that truly reflects their love and the joy of their day.
In addition to the photos, we produced a comprehensive video set for Mikey and Michelle, including a highlight reel for sharing with friends and family and a full documentary video. The documentary was especially meaningful, as it featured intimate family interviews that added a personal touch to the storytelling. Creating something that's not just visually stunning but also emotionally resonant is always the goal at Bokeh Weddings.
Wedding Highlight Film
Wedding Documentary
Planning Your Rancho Las Lomas Wedding
If you're planning a wedding at Rancho Las Lomas, in Silverado Canyon, or anywhere in Southern California, I'd love to help you capture your day. From engagement sessions to the wedding itself, my goal is to create timeless images and films that feel both artistic and genuine. Mikey and Michelle's wedding is a perfect example of what happens when a great venue, a beautiful couple, and creative freedom all come together.
Vendors
- Venue: Rancho Las Lomas
- Planner/Coordinator: Harlow Planning
- Photography & Videography: Bokeh Weddings
- Officiant: Michael
- DJ: YC Entertainment
- Mariachi: Mariachi Torres Max
- Florist: Beautiest Florist
- Signage: Freelored Projects
- Photo Booth: Booth by AP
- Cake: Diva Wonder Cakes
- Churro Cart: Churro Cart
- Hair & Makeup: Glamour on the Go
- Shuttle: Catch Transportations & Events
Planning your Orange County wedding? Let's talk.
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