My second Connors Center Wedding was picture perfect, and despite storms being forecast we had incredible weather all day long.

Jessica got ready upstairs in the Connors Center, and it was a pleasure working with Hilary Warner for makeup, and Jessica’s bridesmaid Kia who is a talented hair stylist in San Jose, CA. The bridesmaids were super emotional throughout the getting ready, which I loved! Jonathan and the guys got ready at the opposite end of the retreat building, then headed over to the main level when it was time for the first look.

The first look was held on one of the gorgeous terraces and I had my favorite background to work with: soft, sun drenched trees. I love a simple foliage background so that the focus is on the couple and their emotions. I loved that Jessica brought along not one but three cards for Jonathan to open right after they saw each other for the first time.

After some family photos on the front lawn, Amanda and I headed down to the garden area for the ceremony. The decor was simple but absolutely gorgeous; New Leaf Flores did a magnificent job with the floral design (as always!) and I loved that they highlighted Jessica and Jonathan’s home grown hops on the ceremony arch. The loose theme for the day was beer (Jonathan is a keen home brewer). I loved the color choices for the flowers too; rich, warm oranges, pinks and golds.

Cocktail hour was super fun at this wedding; there were lawn games on the terraces, including giant Jenga, and cornholes, as well as a raw bar set up inside the retreat center. Guests then descended the beautiful stone stairway for the tented reception.

Connors Center weddings benefit from a huge choice of rooms and outdoor spaces, and the reception was held on another lawn under a beautiful clear tent (I loved being able to look up and see the sky changing throughout the evening). Highlights included a fun first dance, and great toasts by Jonathan’s best friend and Jessica’s sister Rachel. There was also an absolutely delicious spread of cupcakes laid out towards the end of the evening.

Thanks Jessica and Jonathan for choosing me to document your Connors Center wedding; I hope you enjoy these sneak peek photos!