I'm a sucker for a well-planned intimate wedding, so when M + P reached out about having me photograph their wedding at Hakone Gardens in Saratoga, California, I was thrilled! While I've been to the gardens a few times before, this was my first time experiencing a wedding there, and it was absolutely stunning! This couple had their ceremony earlier in the morning, which made for some really beautiful lighting for details and couple portraits; and having their ceremony on the bridge was so stunning.
I also loved how they incorporated aspects of the groom's culture in the ceremony by exchanging floral garlands. Known as the varmala or jai mala, this part of the marriage ceremony is a significant cultural exchange in Hindu weddings. This exchange symbolizes not only the couple's love for each other, but accepting each other into their families, and a sign of their pledge to respect each other for the rest of their lives.
While the couple started their inquiry by telling me they're "awkward subjects" who don't know how to pose for photos, I had such a great time playing with the lighting and scenery to accent and amplify their excitement and love for their big day.
