McGovern Centennial Gardens Wedding

Gabrielle and Steven’s outdoor McGovern Centennial Gardens wedding was gorgeous. The black and white color palette with pops of orange and hot pink had the romantic vibe these high school sweet hearts of ten years were going for. Everything about this wedding was dreamy and it was such an honor for the Aly Matei Photography team to be a part of it.

All in the Details

When brides ask me what is one thing I recommend for their wedding day, my answer is always, “Hire a good planner! And, preferably one from my vendor list”. Gabrielle and Steven did just that.

We had the pleasure of working with Maria at Vida Events and let me tell you, she knocked it out of the park. Maria and I had previously worked together on a styled shoot so we had already developed a great relationship. How does that help you as a couple? Communication, communication, communication! When you choose a planner that is highly recommended by your photographer, you are getting a team that has already established great lines of communication. Your timeline with be just right with every detailed covered. Your wedding day will run more smoothly because your planner and photography are cohesive from the get go. Maria and her team are such a bright light! Professional and immensely talented, she is my go to gal. I am so glad Gabrielle choose a planner from my vendor list.

First Look with Dad

Gabrielle and Steven had an evening ceremony in November 2021. Knowing this, I shared with these high school sweethearts the benefits of having a first look and doing all the portraits and family formals before the ceremony. With ceremonies in November, you begin to lose the light a bit earlier than in the Spring and we don’t want that to affect your portraits.

Gabrielle shared the sweetest first look with her Dad. The lighting was absolutely perfect and we captured the deep love and respect these two share for each other.

Bride and Groom First Look

After getting ready, we took Gabrielle out to the gardens and captured bridal portraits. Steven had been waiting all day with great anticipation for the moment he would see his beautiful bride for the first time. It was finally time for the first look. His smile and reaction say it all. He was overcome with joy as he stared at the women who was going to become his wife. Gabrielle was stunning!

McGovern Centennial Gardens Wedding Portraits

After the first look, we roamed the gardens for bride and groom portraits. We were able to take advantage of the beautiful lighting. We also completed all the bridal party photographs and family formals. This allowed for the bride and groom to enjoy cocktail hour and have more time with their family and friends after the ceremony.

The Outdoor Garden Ceremony

This lovely, intimate garden wedding ceremony was everything Gabrielle and Steven dreamed of. With friends and family gathered around them, they said their “I do’s”. The bright florals reflected the cheerfulness that both Gabrielle and Steven share with others.

 McGovern Centennial Gardens Wedding Reception

What a fun reception this was! After a lovely first dance, Gabrielle and Steven enjoyed visiting with each guest throughout the night. There was so much love for this couple shared by every person there. Vida Events designed a gorgeous sweetheart table for the newlyweds taking full advantage of the garden fountains. We were able to whisk Gabrielle and Steven away for night time portraits, always one of my favorite things to capture at any wedding!

The evening ended with a streamer exit. If you know me at all, you know I am a huge fan of streamer exits. Let the photos speak for themself.

Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Santos! It was the greatest joy being a part of your journey to becoming husband and wife. I look forward to our continued friendship and wish you the best years ahead.

 

Shout out to the amazing Vendor Team at McGovern Centennial Gardens Wedding

Photography | Aly Matei Photography

Venue | McGovern Centennial Gardens

Planner | Vida Events

Florals |  Ponderosa Blooms

Rentals | Peerless Events and Tents

Hair & Makeup | Hey Lovely Makeup

Catering | Churrascos

Videography | Justin Ruiz Media

Photobooth | Selfie Booth Company

 

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