Here’s a small taste of what I’m talking about:
The location
The bride and groom chose beautiful Pine Hill Twin Oaks as their wedding location. The venue advertises itself as an experience that will transport you to late 1800! Like a page ripped off a storybook. The location is surrounded by tranquil waterfalls, bushy gardens, and a romantic vibe that gave the ceremony a touch of intimacy and charm.
This private mountaintop retreat is filled with the most amazing trees; there were some native California Live Oaks, Cedar Pines, and lovely Manzanitas.
The décor inside the venue matches that earthy feeling with wood everywhere and brown tones. It all felt really close to Mother Earth – but not in a rustic way, more like a fairy tale feeling.
Of course, such a setting provided the perfect spots for the photoshoot.
The original meaning of the song, as lead signer Mattew Ramsey said was to talk about the importance of being in a band. How he cannot fathom experiencing his fame, and the crazy ride he’s living in all by himself. The band helps him celebrate his success but also get through life challenges.
And I can only imagine brides experience something similar. The wedding preparation, all the must be ready, and organized – it’s an overwhelming process. Including the big day! But having your family, your bridesmaids, and your friends by your side makes everything easier, and happier. I guess Alex and Sam feel their happiness is multiplied by sharing their joy with their “bands.”
The last song I want to mention about this wedding, (and continuing on the subject of thanking the guests for their presence), is the song Alex and Sam selected for the cutting the cake part, which is HOLY by Justin Bieber.
A controversial figure, no doubt, Bieber wrote this song reflecting on how he acknowledges he went off the rails for some years but rededicates his life to God. And this new way of feeling spiritual, Bieber attributes to the moment he got married.
The song was a lovely set for that wedding moment; a reminder that couples are reborn when they get married. And a new, spiritual bow, links them together.
Alex and Sam
Another day, another wedding. Even when the media is trying to engulf us in a wave of pessimistic news, here comes a great event, and a lovely couple to prove to us life is actually pretty good. I don’t know if it was the historical place, the views, the music, or the way Alex and Sam gazed at each other during their wedding, that uplifted my entire mood.
Let’s talk some music…
I just love when the whole wedding vibe matches. The music selection was spotless for this one. For the 1st song, Alex and Same chose Latch by Disclosure & Sam Smith. Now, let me tell you I’m a big fan of Sam Smith. His “Dancing with a Stranger” is one of those songs that when it pops out, will inevitably make me sing, whether it is in the car or wherever. This song, however, was originally created by Disclosure, they wrote the song in a funky, very distinct beat from other dance tunes you hear out there.
The fantastic chill track features the warm, catchy vocals from Smith. The band had the track ready. In just one day, Sam Smith had the vocals ready. The singer recorded his own acoustic version, and his candid about it. He says the Disclosure version makes you so euphoric, that you just need to start dancing! And that’s exactly the effect that caused during Alex and Sam’s union – it was a euphoric moment when you know something amazing is about to start.
Now, moving on… when we talk about wedding songs, of course, the 1st dance comes to mind, the mother and father dance, those are your typical. But this couple was detailed enough to carefully select meaningful songs for every part of their wedding. For example, the Bride’s song was: One Man by Old Dominion.
Favorite moments – Alex and Sam
A very fun fact I learned when I met them, was that Alex and Sam are big fans of Disney. So, it was no surprise when I entered the salon, and there were certain details and décor that resembled Disney’s unique princess effect. The honor table might as well have been featured in one of the princesses’ weddings!
At the top of the reception. The bride and groom gave it all by singing and dancing “Don’t stop me know” by Queen, and the crowd was on fire. Funny thing, in this reception I saw a lot of singing along; usually, guests limit themselves to dance, and a few cheers here and there. This group of people sang with all their strength. It was fun! Another moment was when all the ladies toasted on the dance floor, singing “I wanna dance with somebody” by the late Whitney Houston.
In all truthfulness, my very favorite moment of the day was during the ceremony. The Minister looked deeply into Sam and Alex’s eyes and gave a simple request: “Love each other the best you can, with all of your hearts.”
Wouldn’t the world be happier and better if we all did that? One thing I am sure, Alex and Sam started with the right foot. We wish you all the happiness in the world and thank you for making me part of your special day.
