I *love* themed weddings, when a bride is inspired or passionate enough to create something unique or intimately connected to their personality. When Erin told me about her Roaring ’20s vintage wedding idea – replete with flapper dresses and bowler hats, I knew I had to be the photographer she would choose! She explained to me what she was looking for in a photographer, and although there really wasn’t anything in my portfolio to associate with her vision, I must have convinced her of my abilities nonetheless.
As a trial run, I met Erin and Justin at their friend’s house in the Santa Cruz mountains. Erin had scrounged up an old Victorian-style chair and lamp to use as props in their ’20s-themed engagement session. We had a fantastic time together exploring the possibilities – my favorite technical addition was using one of my speedlights to simulate the unplugged lamp being “on.”
Fast forward to the wedding held at Laurel Mill Lodge which, while technically in Los Gatos, is on the Santa Cruz side of the mountains and is nestled deep in the woods off Laurel Lane. I almost got lost driving there (don’t trust google in remote rural regions!), and was delighted when the valley opened up to reveal the rustic lodge. From the hanging jam jar lights in the trees to the tastefully decorated Speakeasy and Corona typewriter (for guests to write letters to the couple!), Erin brought her vision of the 1920s in all its splendor to the lodge that day. When the guests began to arrive, the illusion was complete – almost everyone wore period clothing and accessories!
Needless to say, I went crazy with the photos. I’ll let them speak for themselves – enjoy the slideshow below and if you want more (or would like to order prints), please visit my main website at www.GoodEyePhotography.com.
Vendors:
Catering: Coastal Catering, Jeni Brill, sales@coastalcateringsantacruz.com
Flowers: Santa Cruz Floral, Nita Akerson, nakerson@yahoo.com
Venue: Laurel Mill Lodge, proprietors@laurelmilllodge.com
Hair & Makeup: Sherry Montoya, Le Salon Cruz
Bride’s Dress: Vera Wang from Glamour Closet, San Francisco
Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Self-chosen
Cakes: Bridesmaids & Mothers
Groom’s Suit: Nordstroms
Men’s Hats: The Hat Company of Santa Cruz
Cake Toppers & Vintage Decor: Etsy
Rentals: Alexis Rentals
Looking for Wedding Photography in Los Gatos or the Santa Cruz Mountains?
Bay Area Photographer Chris Schmauch wants to shoot your wedding! (831) 216-6210
If you haven’t already, feel free to review our portfolio site, browse past weddings, check our romantic {and FREE*} engagement sessions, follow our business on Facebook (like us while you’re at it!), or read our awesome Yelp reviews.