April + Matt: Huntington Beach Wedding

Paper flowers?  Polaroid cameras?  Peanut butter and jelly cupcakes?  At a wedding?!  Absolutely!  Three weeks ago, Keith and I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph the nuptials of April and Matt. Their wedding took place at the Newland Barn at Newland House Museum in Huntington Beach.  But this was no ordinary event.  You see, April and Matt are two very creative people, with a keen attention to detail, and they planned a ceremony and reception that truly reflected their personalities, style, and love for each other. For you creative types and DIY brides, this is one post you’re not gonna want to miss.

We first met up with the girls at the Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort. Matt’s sister, Natalie, did a fabulous job doing April’s hair and makeup.

Keith and I knew we were in for a treat that day when we saw April’s paper flower bouquet and Matt’s home-made boutonniere.  April designed and made each one herself.  The colors are amazing. And the best part is—these flowers will never die.

We love the vintage feel of April’s dress and hairpiece.  She made a gorgeous bride.

Keith went to go visit the guys getting ready next door at the Huntington Beach Hyatt. Matt looked quite dapper himself.

While most people who marry at the Newland Barn choose to do the ceremony next to the facility’s veranda, April and Matt opted to wed next to the water tower.  It made for the perfect location as the sun dipped below the Newland Museum during the nuptials.

A small preserve is located next to the Newland House.  We lucked out with blue skies for that warm fall afternoon.

One of our favorite shots of the day.

Remember our mention of peanut butter and jelly cupcakes?  They were, in a word: AMAZING.  Along with some vanilla and chocolate cupcakes, these tasty treats were baked by Miss Priss Cupcakes & Such in Long Beach.

Also amazing—In-N-Out for the reception.

April and Matt’s craftiness and attention to detail shined during the reception.  The glittery guest cards in their wedding theme colors were gorgeous.

April and Matt have a great appreciation for art and photography, especially Polaroids.  Instead of a traditional guest book, an instant film camera was left near the reception entrance for guests to take pictures of themselves and provide some kind words and advice for the bride and groom.  April and Matt also put together a personal photo collage next to a vintage camera for guests to peruse.

Stunning, vintage-inspired table decorations came to life at dusk.

And last, but not least, a shot of the rings on the back of their wedding invitation that was, of course, designed and embossed by the bride and groom.

April and Matt’s bridal party is one we will never forget.  There was a lot of love, fun, and humor circulating around this group of friends all day.  They started out pretty tame.

But once the yellow parasols came out, the fun really began.

Congratulations, April and Matt! Thank you for allowing us to share in your big day. It’s definitely one we’ll always remember.