Everyone knew this was different.  It wasn't the giddiness, excitement, or laughter that comes with a bourgeoning relationship that showed how smitten they were.  While those things were present, it was quiet, methodical actions that made friends and family realize that this?  This was different.

Stephanie would wake up early to help Phillip plan for USC tailgating parties, even spending the night before loading his car with snacks, a grill, and libations.  Phillip would stay up late studying for law school finals with Stephanie, even heading back to the library after a Lakers game just to be by her side.  It was their systematic actions of care and devotion that made people realize they were destined for a long life of love and commitment.

Stephanie and Phillip married at The Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel, along the shimmering Pacific Ocean.  They promised each other to continue their love not by way of mere words, but actions.  Late nights at work, sunny tailgating days, and a Maldives honeymoon was on the horizon, but little mattered more than their simple promise to remain at each others' sides.  Forever.

It was a bright and sunny day in Orange County, California.  The couple prepared at The Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel and had lots of sparking accoutrements on hand…

Stephanie surrounded herself with friends linked back to her childhood days in Massachusetts…

Stephanie and Phillip opted to see each other before the ceremony, which created lots of time for wedding photos…here Phillip waits to see his bride…

Phillip was clearly excited to see his future wife…

Stephanie was a radiant bride…

The beauty of seeing each other beforehand is the bride and groom can enjoy a private moment on their wedding day to simply be and enjoy…

The afternoon was gorgeous and spending the day with a group of amazing bridesmaids was a blast…

Phillip, you're looking might dapper, pal!

The groomsmen were full of laughter all day…

The couple set aside ample time for wedding photos and the beautiful grounds of the Ritz Carlton made for a gorgeous backdrop!

Lucky for the sweet couple, the sun created the most stunning patterns of light…

Off to the wedding ceremony…

After the wedding, the couple walked to the beach and enjoyed more time together…

Officially Mr. and Mrs…

An all white, classic reception?  Yes, please.

Guests dined around long tables filled with aromatic scents and beauty…

The First Dance…

 

A little bit of showing off…

And a round of applause for their first spin as husband and wife…

The toasts were hilarious and sentimental…

And lots of toasting ensued….

The dance floor was packed the entire night…

Love…and laughter…

I'll end on this note because the couple spent their first night as husband and wife surrounded by those they love the most:  friends and family…

Many thanks to the amazing team who brought this wedding to life…

Venue:  The Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel

Planner:  Kerrie Underhill

Florist:  Nisie's Enchanted Garden

Makeup and Hair:  Flawless Faces Inc.

Videography: Elysium Productions

Band:  DuBois Entertainment