Their friends said they didn't have pet names for it each other. It was only ever Lance and Clarissa, or Ria if you're close. Her maid of honor had never seen them kiss until the wedding day, although she was sure they had in the past since they'd been together for almost eight years. The sight of them pressing their lips against each other was raw and open. His best man said Lance takes care of those he loves in quiet, but confident ways. They compliment each other in the most assured and protective ways.
But things happened if you looked closely. The way he touched her hand–sweetly, gingerly–and the way he took care of her family members in the chaotic moments of a wedding day, and the way she whispered into his ear and he took care of things. Anything. Everything. And then there was the box. Earlier that morning, Lance surprised Clarissa with a box. As she opened it, she pulled out every card and letter she'd every written to Lance. Throughout their long-distance relationship, the letters amassed. And he saved them all.
So they don't have pet names. But where the Honey, Baby, Pumpkin, Schuckums, or Sugar create a void, Lance and Clarissa fill it with their unadulterated love. A love so rich it fills the hearts of those around them and their loved ones feel the aftereffects.
Lance and Ria, thank you thank you thank you. Getting to know you has been a delight and a true honor. I couldn't think more highly as a couple. You're gracious, giving, and incredibly warm. Thank you for allowing me to be your wedding photographer. It was a joy documenting your love and I know this could only be the start to something greater! Enjoy your month-long honeymoon in Hawaii and the cruise…I can't wait to hear about it upon your return! Much Love and Appreciation… j*
The day started at Pelican Hill Newport Beach with diamonds and a pair of Christian Louboutin's…
Clarissa had a hard time deciding between wedding dresses. Should she get the more traditional Reem Acra gown or the fashion-forward Monique Lhuillier? Oh…the…decisions! Lucky for her, Lance stepped in and said to buy both. Now, he's a total KEEPER!
Many thanks to Marie of Kelly Zhang for doing a wonderful job with makeup…
Clarissa decided to wear the Reem Acra for her wedding ceremony, and change into the Lhuillier as her party dress…
Clarissa radiated on her wedding day and looked absolutely stunning…special bouquet love to Ed Libby…
Meanwhile, JD was off with Lance as he prepared for his wedding day…
The wedding rings with thanks to Harry Winston…
The ceremony was at Our Lady Queen of Angels in Newport Beach and Lance was beyond happy to see his future wife walk down the aisle…
Clarissa and Lance…I adore you both! 🙂
Then it was off to Pelican Hill for wedding photos and the wedding reception…
Clarissa, seriously?! I mean…really…you're unbelievable beaute!
The best thing about shooting wedding photos at sunset at Pelican Hill is there are always pockets of streaming light that make for amazingly lit photos…my perspective…
JD's perspective…
Many, many thanks to the ever fab Jeannie Savage of Details, Details for planning and coordinating a perfect day. I worked with her at Pelican Hill last week as well, but she and the team at Ed Libby transformed the ballroom to look entirely different and every last wedding detail perfected…
A nice, sugary thank you to the Pelican Hill pastry chef for this adorable wedding cake in the shape of a cupcake…and, again, George and Erin from Pelican Hill events…they always welcome me and take such good care of their vendors…such an honor…
The night was filled with perfect speeches…
…that were also hilarious at times…
…and many beautiful toasts…
The First Dance as captured by JD…
Special thanks goes to DJ Mike Soltani for mixing especially well and providing great music, and my favorite videographers, Elysium Productions for being so great to work with…
To see more of Clarissa and Lance's Pelican Hill wedding photos, CLICK HERE for a slideshow!
