Fairytale Outdoor Wedding at Gardens of Paradise

Wedding in Los Angeles

Justin & Rita

A Message From Our Bride

Describe your experience with wedding planning during the current pandemic: Planning a wedding during a pandemic was very stressful. We originally wanted our wedding to be at a banquet hall, but due to the current circumstances, we decided to move it to an outdoor venue.

In the beginning, we were very reluctant since both of us aren’t fans of outdoor weddings due to the rustic look.

Fortunately with the help of Kat Minassi, Butterfly Floral, and our entire team, we were able to create a glamorous wedding that no longer felt like a typical outdoor wedding.

Our original guest count was 700 people, but unfortunately we had to reduce it substantially. To follow CDC guidelines, we limited the number of guests per table and created double the size dance floor.

We also want to thank Rene and Ninette from Rene Zadori Photography for continuously checking in on us and putting our mind to ease. Ninette was always a text away when we needed something and we really truly appreciated that!

Describe your experience with finding your wedding gown: I’ve always had a vision that on my wedding day I would look like a fairytale princess.

I’ve always loved the fully beaded ballgown look with a long train, which was brought to life thanks to Ryan and Walter.

I had started dress shopping last year before the pandemic and went to a bunch of stores. I tried on countless dresses and never felt that moment, that this is the one.

I decided to make an appointment with Ryan and Walter based on their work and reputation and they were able to customize my dream ballgown. It was everything I’ve always wanted and more!

We did our portrait session at Pasadena Princess, through Wedding Estates. We were so happy to be able to have our portraits taken here, this is what I always dreamed of!

What are your favorite moments of your wedding day?: Our favorite moment from the wedding was the first look. The first time Justin saw me in my wedding dress and all the emotions that started to rise was just a different feeling.

The moment I saw tears coming down from his eyes made me realize how happy I am to be marrying him.

Our ceremony was supposed to be at a church but we decided to do it in Paradise Island at Gardens of Paradise. It turned out to be so amazing!

It was such a beautiful day for a wedding ceremony, the sunshine was perfect and we ended the ceremony as the sun was setting.

Any advice you have about wedding planning in 2020?: To all the brides planning a wedding in 2020, I highly recommend to always stay positive. Always do what’s best for you without paying attention to negativity.

Wedding Reception Design Theme: Our wedding Reception Design theme, was romantic and dreamy. It was filled with candles, flowers. and gold leaves.

Wedding Reception Design Inspiration : Justin and I specified to Kat Minassi what we like and didn’t like and she created something beyond either of us could have imagined.

We never thought an outdoor venue can be turned into such an amazing masterpiece. I mean, we were totally blown away!

At times, Justin and I, had differences in opinion when it came to design and Kat did an amazing job to find a middle ground which combined both of our desires.

Interesting facts about the wedding: Justin and I chose our first dance song, “Can’t Help Falling In love With You,” from one of our favorite movies.