Hannah and Balem could not have found a more perfect location to realize their elegant and romantically rustic wedding vision than Calamigos Ranch. During the intimate outdoor ceremony, redwood, weeping willows, and eucalyptus trees arched above as they exchanged vows. They kept the color palette fresh and clean with light blush bridesmaids dresses and gorgeous florals by Fleur de Rye in blush, white, and lots of greenery, incorporating some wood touches as well, a nod to Hannah’s Texan roots. Their day was effortlessly romantic and the epitome of simple, natural beauty. You will fall in love with these photos from Valorie Darling Photography Collective, so be sure to view the entire gallery!
In their own words
How did you meet?
We were set up by a mutual friend, Jasmine. She was so smooth about it though. She introduced us and then slowly started having him around at all of our group hangs so we became friends and then ultimately ended up getting together. Thanks Jasmine!
What is your proposal story?
We used to walk the strand in Santa Monica and so he set up a cute little spot at the beach where we normally would walk and proposed there! Champagne, blanket, etc. He had our parents in town as well so we celebrated afterwards at a local restaurant we love, Frito Misto, with our parents and close friends.
What was the most important to the two of you while planning? Was there anything that you chose to splurge on or skip?
I think the atmosphere of the day/night was most important to us. We wanted it to be perfect, comfortable and romantic for everyone attending. We also splurged a little bit on our live wedding band and bringing in our favorite local ice cream, McConnell’s. My family back home in Texas loves a live band and so that was something that was non negotiable for us from the start – creates such a fun atmosphere and vibe for everyone.
What were your favorite parts of the day?
My favorite part of the day for sure would be the time between the ceremony and the reception. We had a little down time to eat snacks and have a drink just the two of us and I think we’ll cherish that forever just soaking in the moment. Of course, the reception was amazing and so much fun. I think watching all of our friends and family come together and have fun and dance the night away to the band was also one of our favorite memories.
Do you have any advice for couples planning their weddings now?
I think I would say enjoy it! It can be such a stressful process but it’s also so fun. I’d say don’t sweat the small stuff and zone in on what’s important to you. We wanted to make sure our wedding stayed true to us as a couple. At the end of the day, the best thing about it is marrying your best friend so that’s something we always tried to keep in mind.