the hacienda west
what started as a styled shoot turned into the sweetest vow renewal
Setting the scene at The Hacienda West
Back in July 2023, the journey of Jacinthe and Louis's enchanting vow renewal began. It all started with a message on Instagram. Dominique, the creative force behind their 6+ lenses, reached out to me with a vision. They were orchestrating this masterpiece and had their eyes set on an up-and-coming micro-wedding venue in the historical University Heights neighborhood located in San Diego. The venue: The Hacienda West.
Excitement filled the digital air as Dominique, the owner of Castillo Holliday Photo + Film, expressed their admiration for my floral creations. The best part? They were on a mission to collaborate with businesses like mine – proudly queer and POC-owned. The prospect of joining forces with fellow trailblazers in the industry was the spark that ignited the magic of this project. It was more than just a shoot; it was a celebration of love, diversity, and creative synergy. And so, the journey began a story that would unfold in the heart of November.
Monochromatic Marvel and Textural Wonders
When I put together the main bouquet, I wanted to mix things up a bit. So, I went for a monochromatic look but added some different textures to keep it from being too basic. What came out of it? Well, not just your average bunch of flowers – it was like holding - not to be dramatic or anything but - a work of floral art.
I also brought a variety of different ribbons to wrap the bouquet on site. In my case, I had several neutrals to choose from and chartreuse that stood out like a sore thumb. When I asked Dominique what her thoughts were, she immediately said the chartreuse. Great minds think alike.
Blossoms and Tile-Inspired Hues
Now, let's talk about color inspiration. The venue, The Hacienda West, was adorned with these beautiful tiles that became the muse for our floral color palette. Nature and design intertwining – it was a match made in floral heaven.
A Statement Lapel Piece
Of course, I couldn't resist adding a touch of flair! I crafted a statement lapel piece for Louis. GONE ARE THE DAYS OF BASIC SUIT FLORALS. Why should the bouquet have all the fun? Like seriously this is just the beginning of what is possible for florals on suits. Once you open your mind to the possibilities a whole world of creativity will open and I’m SO onboard!!!!
Jacinthe & Louis
Okay, so you know how I said that this was a styled shoot turned vow renewal?! OKAY, allow me to spill the tea. So after a few model couples dropped out and we were left high and dry a few too many times, Dominique asked their parents if they would kindly model for us. TOTAL coincidence that it happened to be around the 6th anniversary of their actual wedding. You guys… because everything lined up so well they decided to renew their vows. They wrote new vows in custom vow books together and had a very private and intimate ceremony.
Quick Change: Flipping The Ceremony Space To Reception
WHOA! Hold the phone! We added a second look to this space?! YES, WE DID! After Jacinthe and Louis had their ceremony they went off and took some sunset pictures. Meanwhile, I was busy constructing their sweetheart table where they would later enjoy some fancy champagne and local artisan chocolates al fresco. PS: check out those cosmos. I sourced them from my friend’s garden. Can you believe it? The cosmos lent an ethereal touch, adding that extra sprinkle of magic.
kind words:
“Oh my goodness, where do I even start with Berry Blooms Floral Co.? They’re seriously the bomb! Tori, the mastermind behind all the floral magic, just completely blew me away with their creativity. We recently teamed up for a styled shoot, and I can’t stop gushing about how insanely amazing everything turned out. The color palette, the flower arrangements—everything was like a dream. Berry Blooms Floral Co. is hands down the best, and we are head over heels in love with their work. Tori, you’re an absolute rockstar! Thank you a million times for making my vision come to life. Couldn’t have pulled it off without your incredible talent. If you’re looking for a florist that will knock your socks off, seriously, look no further. Berry Blooms Floral Co. is where it’s at!”
Berry Blooms Floral Co.
One of my favorite memories has been meeting and working with Dominique with Castillo Holliday Photo + Film. I was in a place where I was kind of feeling done working on styled shoots when they reached out. But their kindness and work spoke for themselves. I'm so glad I said yes because I feel like I've found a real friend and just getting to continue collaborating on projects has been so so fun.
Does this blog post resonate with your style? Are you thinking wowza I NEED something like those colorful florals for my wedding? If so please reach out. I’d love to work with you :)
vendors:
venue: The Hacienda West
insta: @thehaciendawest
photographer, Super 8 Filmmaker, and Creative Director: Castillo Holliday Photo + Film
insta: @castillohollidayphotoandfilm
florals: Berry Blooms Floral Co.
insta: @berrybloomsfloralco
hair: Nikki San Diego Hairstylist
insta: @nikkidomyhair
mua: Yerusa Zarshah Dewan
insta: @artistrybyyzd
vow books: Calligraphy by Ally
insta: @calligraphy_by_ally
chocolates: Mission Heights Chocolates
insta: @missionheightschocolates
gown: Jenny Yoo
insta: @jennyyoonyc
shoes: Loeffler Randall
insta: @loefflerrandall
couple: @jacinthepare & @twoleapingfrogs
