It's finally time for part 2 of Jacob and Alyssa's wedding story! Check out part one to see their beautiful Newport Beach Elopement! This time I'll be sharing the couple's Oak Canyon Nature Center wedding portraits.

If you've been planning a wedding at all in the last 16 months, I don't have to tell you what a roller coaster ride this past year has been. When we left off in part 1, this lovely couple had just eloped with plans to finally host their big event in September of 2021. But come March, their original venue closed without warning and it was time to pivot plans once again. Since things were still so uncertain the couple decided to simplify their plans and make the most of it! The new plan: Some adorable family portraits and a romantic couple's session. The couple ALSO included a special first dance, and parent dance in this session so that they could still have those special moments with mom and dad.

Since the Original wedding venue that Alyssa and Jacob had chosen had a wilderness, nature style we decided to find a portrait location that had the same vibe so that they could get the style of pictures they were hoping for when we first spoke. Oak Canyon Nature Center was the perfect location for the day!

Once again, Alyssa donned her stunning Kenneth Winston bridal gown (Style 1882) and Foxy Faces by Jen styled her hair for the occasion. She looked absolutely beautiful!

Her new husband, Jacob, proudly wore his Firefighter uniform and the boutonniere that Serenade of Flowers provided along with Alyssa's stunning bouquet was a nice addition to the look. Alyssa's vibrant and tropical bridal bouquet popped against the soft colors of the nature center. The ever-talented Gini from Serenade of Flowers created a gorgeous collection of florals that included orange lilies, blush roses, and varying shades of fuschia florals, along with a variety of lush greens.

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After the couple shared the super sweet first dance in the "Forrest," we photographed them with their families, and then spent the rest of the afternoon exploring Oak Canyon Nature Center. The gorgeous golden glow of afternoon sunlight coming through the trees made for an incredible, magical backdrop to their romantic afternoon.

There are so many favorites from their special day that it was hard to narrow down which images to share, but these are a few of my personal favorites:

Here's what Alyssa had to say about her photography experience:
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"I cannot speak highly enough about Belinda - both as a person, and as a professional. Planning a wedding during COVID was HARD, but working with Belinda was by far the easiest and most rewarding part. From having to move dates multiple times, to our venue actually permanently closing just months before our event, Belinda has been the backbone of our marriage experience. She worked with us, and provided SO much additional support and experience through the process. We ended up having a wedding photoshoot in a nature center recommended to us by her and I couldn't be happier with the results. She responds extremely quickly, and will provide you with ANY information you seek. Literally. She is like an encyclopedia of wedding knowledge. She is funny, personable, has a wonderful husband helper, and the know-how to get the job done. My husband and I are not photogenic, but she made us look excellent with great direction and patience. Can you tell how much I love Belinda?"

I hope you enjoyed part two of Alyssa & Jacob's intimate wedding story!

Are you planning your own elopement or wedding? I'd love to help you get amazing photos to remember the day! Fill out my contact form to inquire about availability and pricing.