October 11th, 2011:

I’ve said before on this blog that one of my favorite things about shooting weddings is that Felicia and I are constantly surrounded by happy people, and we also have the privilege of meeting lots of people from all walks of life, and sometimes, from all over the world. We are indeed fortunate to share great chemistry with Justin and Natalie: We already had so much fun during their engagement shoot earlier this year, and by the time we shot their wedding, it really felt like we were being part of our friends’ wedding day.

Natalie – who incidentally spent several of her formative years in Singapore – decided to test Justin’s commitment with some traditional wedding ‘door-stop’ games. For those who don’t know what this is, basically, the bride & bridesmaids come up with several challenges to make it difficult for the groom to get to his bride. The groom has to show his sincerity by completing these challenges, and often resorts to offering bribes of money in red envelopes to the bridesmaids in the hopes that they will spare him more torment.

After witnessing what Justin had to go through, all I can say is that I’m lucky Felicia chose to spare me. I’m pretty sure she (and her very evil friends) could have come up with some pretty nasty challenges for me.

Justin was blindfolded and made to consume spoonfuls of the following, symbolizing the ups & downs of a marriage: spicy chili pepper sauce, balsamic vinegar, coffee beans, and honey. Only after he was done with these – without stopping for a drink of water – that he was able to meet his bride and proceed with the tea ceremony. I honestly felt bad for the guy. Especially since he was hurting really, really bad from a killer hangover. [Don’t judge. Justin’s groomsmen all flew in the day before the wedding, so he HAD TO have his Bachelor Party then. And of course, being such awesome groomsmen, they were very generous with the alcohol.]

 

 

Natalie & Justin had their ceremony and reception at the Alta Dena Country Club. The reception space was absolutely awesome with large windows and lots of gorgeous light. Love it.

 

 

 

Natalie & Justin, congratulations, and we’re absolutely thrilled for you both. Thank you for your friendship, and we wish you both a lifetime of happiness!