Sherman Library and Gardens Wedding | Janet & Ryan | Bokeh Weddings
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Sherman Library and Gardens Wedding | Janet & Ryan

Newport Beach, CA

Janet and Ryan walking through the colorful gardens at Sherman Library and Gardens in Newport Beach

If you've already read about Janet and Ryan's engagement session, you know they're the kind of couple whose love feels rooted deep, genuine, and ever-growing. On March 28th and 29th, I had the honor of documenting their Sherman Library and Gardens wedding in Newport Beach, and it was nothing short of magical.

The Tea Ceremony

Janet and Ryan in traditional Vietnamese ao dai during their intimate tea ceremony

The festivities began with an intimate tea ceremony at their home. Janet and Ryan welcomed me into their space like family. It was a heartfelt and emotional evening surrounded by loved ones, tradition, and a serene backyard nursery they've cultivated together. That detail alone says everything about them: grounded, thoughtful, and in sync with the world around them.

Ryan kissing Janet on the cheek during the tea ceremony, both wearing vibrant red ao dai Tea cups held during the traditional Vietnamese tea ceremony

Every moment of the tea ceremony felt deeply intentional. From the traditional attire to the warmth of the family gathered around, you could feel the weight and beauty of the traditions being honored.

Emotional family moment during the tea ceremony Family and friends surrounding Janet and Ryan during the tea ceremony celebration

The Wedding Day

First look at Sherman Library and Gardens, Janet walking toward Ryan among the plants

The next day, they tied the knot at the beautiful Sherman Library & Gardens in Newport Beach. This venue felt like a reflection of their personalities: lush, peaceful, and vibrant with life. With both Janet and Ryan being huge plant lovers (seriously, their backyard nursery is a dream), the setting couldn't have been more perfect.

Groom portrait of Ryan at Sherman Library and Gardens Janet's colorful bridal bouquet with blue, orange, and pink flowers Ceremony setup with floral arrangements by the fountain at Sherman Library and Gardens

Every little detail, from the abundant florals to the soft light filtering through the garden, felt intentional, timeless, and full of warmth.

Intimate couple portrait of Janet and Ryan at Sherman Library and Gardens Janet and Ryan celebrating after being pronounced married at Sherman Library and Gardens Colorful floral details at Sherman Library and Gardens wedding Janet and Ryan's bubble exit kiss surrounded by guests at Sherman Library and Gardens

Film Photography

Film photograph of Janet and Ryan in the greenhouse at Sherman Library and Gardens

Another thing I loved? They're both big fans of film photography, so naturally, they opted for my film add-on, and I was thrilled. I shot a few rolls throughout the weekend, and the developed scans turned out stunning. There's just something about the texture and depth of film that matched the nostalgic, organic vibe of their day so perfectly.

Golden hour film portrait of Janet and Ryan at their garden wedding Bridal portrait of Janet surrounded by flowers, shot on film Janet and Ryan sharing a kiss at their reception, captured on film Live wedding painting being created during the reception, shot on film

The Wedding Film

A Perfect Day

The weather was perfect. The energy was calm yet full of joy. It was the kind of day where everything aligned, and I felt lucky to be there to witness it all.

This wedding was not just beautiful, it was deeply them. And it was an honor to photograph it.

Planning your own garden wedding? Let's talk.

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