By Sun & Sparrow
Cindy and Chris’s Dreamy San Juan Capistrano wedding was a wonderful day, and we were so honored to be their Mission San Juan Capistrano Wedding Photographers. Their day started at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano, and their reception was at El Adobe de Capistrano. Come with us as we explore Cindy and Chris’s fairytale love story.
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The Couple: Cindy and Chris
Cindy and Chris were such a wonderful couple to work with. I had an amazing time photographing their dreamy San Juan Capistrano wedding. Their love is impossible to miss and I’m so glad that I got to be involved in such a special day.
Cindy is a bride with an immaculate style. Throughout everything leading up to and through the wedding, she had an impeccable taste for details. From her Adrianna Papel engagement dress to her Louis Vitton wedding shoes, every moment was elegant and intentional. She has a wonderful support system in place too. During her getting ready process her whole family was involved, creating sweet intimate moments. My favorite moment was when Cindy’s dad put her shoes on her. The bond that they share is so inspiring to me.
It was also special for me to share a little bond with Cindy and Chris as they live in Fullerton, where I spent a few years going to school. They moved into their new house just before the wedding so Cindy was able to get ready in their new home, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
The Venue
Cindy loved the San Juan Capistrano mission because of the architecture, and I love it for the same reason. The rustic arches and textured walls speak to a time long past while reminding us that we are living in the present. Weddings are just a moment in your happily ever after, but with dreamy photographs, you can hold onto those memories as they become reminders of your everyday fairy tale.
The ceremony took place in the basilica because of Cindy’s catholic upbringing, to keep long-held family traditions alive, honoring loved ones by emphasizing their faith.
The Day
Getting Ready
Cindy and Chris’s Dreamy San Juan Capistrano Wedding day began with getting ready pictures at their beautiful new home. Cindy’s family was there partaking in the celebration which was wonderful to see. Her dogs were dressed as a bride and groom, which epitomized the fun and joyful atmosphere of the entire day. It was really special to watch her create some of her first memories in her new home as a bride-to-be, getting ready for her special day.
Each of Cindy’s family members helped her put on different details. The moment that stood out most was when her dad helped her put on her shoes and they cried together, sweetly.
Wedding Ceremony at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano
Once everyone was ready they went to their catholic ceremony at the mission, after which we had a photo session, stopping at all of the iconic spots the mission offers. It was almost unreal taking pictures in the mission’s brick-pillared hallways and the mission bell courtyard.
Reception at El Adobe de Capistrano
Following the photo session they went to their reception at the El Adobe de Capistrano. They had their grand entrance with a live mariachi band and had their first dance to the song “It is Love” from Cinderella. This led to a special moment when Cindy’s parents had an anniversary dance because Cindy and Chris’s wedding fell on their anniversary. Everyone was in tears as we saw a wonderful example of what a happily ever after can look like.
Five Iconic Photo Locations at Mission San Juan Capistrano
The Great Stone Church
Built in 1797, this beautiful structure was brought down by an earthquake in 1812. Before it collapsed it was the tallest stone building west of the Mississippi and boasted beautiful arches that must have been amazing to look at. A ton of work has been done to make the mission safe from earthquakes so we should get to enjoy this historic landmark for years to come.
The Gardens
Upon entering you walk into a garden area with a pretty fountain and lots of colorful flowers. In the distance, you can see the Great Stone Church. The pathways are really pretty because they are lined with flowers all over, making the gardens a peaceful place to be.
Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano
The Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano is gorgeous. Though the entryway in the front is very grand, most people enter through the side. Once you get inside, the building is full of hand-painted artistry all over the walls representing biblical stories. It has a very old world feel to it, and makes for a beautiful traditional wedding.
The Sacred Garden and Bells
This is a patio off to the side of the small cathedral. You have to pass through a picturesque brick arch to get through the fountain area. The sacred garden is a large space with tall terracotta-covered brick walls and succulents all around. I love the old-world feel of this space. The bells in the background give the space a rhythm and always make me think of wedding bells. This space takes you to another world.
Historically, the bells were used to call people to Mass at Serra chapel and was built after the earthquake destroyed the great stone chapel.
Gorgeous Verandas
These outdoor hallways give a lot of variety to a romantic session. I love the dark wooden doors and the arches that seem to be everywhere. Some of my favorite photos from this wedding were taken in this space.
Dreamy Mission San Juan Capistrano Wedding Photo Gallery
San Juan Capistrano Wedding Photographer
I love photographing weddings at San Juan Capistrano. Over the years, photographing weddings in Southern California, I have been very privileged to photograph weddings at many iconic Southern California locations and San Juan Capistrano is one of the most iconic. This mission is part of a series of missions throughout Southern California, each one carrying tons of California history.
Details and Vendors
Cindy’s favorite Disney princess is Cinderella, which is why she chose a dress with a ballgown skirt and an off-the-shoulder neckline. She looked so gorgeous with a crown-like headband that paid tribute to Cinderella’s similar headband. Here are the vendors that worked on her wedding!
Florist: Flower Allie
Venue: San Juan Capistrano Mission
Dress: Demetrio’s Bridal
Bridal Shop: Mon Ami Bridal Salon
Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Reception: El Adobe restaurant
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