Just after the First Look, when Derrek and Katie saw each other for the first time, Katie said to me “All that time planning it is so incredible to finally see everything come to life!” Everything was perfect – even the blue skies and light breeze were on point. So many details went into this DIY wedding and those personal touches did not go unnoticed.
Eight years ago Derrek and Katie first started dating. Throughout college and learning who they wanted to be they grew together in their relationship and are looking forward to a new journey as husband and wife in June 2017. This new chapter will continue on the foundation of love and friendship that they’ve built and my hope for them is that they continue to adventure together and always cherish the years of love they have.
View Derrek + Katie’s Beach Engagement Session »
Derrek and Katie tied the knot this summer at Coto Valley Country Club. Their ceremony took place on the grand lawn in front of a romantic iron gazebo. Coto Valley Country Club was originally opened in 1970 and recently renovated. It is surrounded by acres of natural woodlands, trails and trees in the heart of Coto de Caza in Orange County.
Katie wore rhinestone lined white Rainbow Sandals! My kind of girl! The bride and her sis-in-law hand planted all of the succulents, and put together all the centerpiece flowers decorating the reception. Talk about a DIY project!⠀
After their picture perfect wedding day, Derrek and Katie celebrated their honeymoon in beautiful Jamaica!
Derrek + Katie, I am so happy for you two. After talking with you for over a year about your wedding it was so amazing to see how everything came together. You two are so sweet together and balance each other well. Congratulations!! Wishing you all the love and happiness!!




Derrek and Katie had each of their guests take a Polaroid selfie and insert it in their guestbook. Great way to remember everyone that came!⠀

Be sure to make time for just the two of you at your wedding. It’s so easy to get caught up in the production of the day, it’s good to take a step back and remember that you are there to make a commitment of love to each other and enjoy the ignition of this new life together.

Meet the wedding team of vendors:
Venue // Coto Valley Country Club // @cotovalleycountryclub
Caterer // The Habit // @habitburgergrill
Florist // 800rosebig // @800rosebigcom
Hair + Makeup // Beauty & the Beach // @beautyandthebeach.oc
DJ // DJ IanB (Ian Brawner)
Videographer // FocalPoint (Clint Popineau) // @focalpoint_film
Cake // Susie Cakes // @susiecakesbakery
Wedding Dress // The Wedding Day // @theweddingdaybridal
Grooms Tux // Macy’s // @macys
Photographer // Wheeland Photography // @wheelandphoto
I’m excited to be going back to the Cabrillo pavilion next month. Santa Barbara is so charming and romantic.
#santabarbarawedding #cabrillopavilion #cabrillopavilionwedding
Here’s a recent album. I’m delivering to my clients tomorrow. I don’t get to show them off as I have them delivered directly to my clients, but I had this one on hand and wanted to show you. For the cover, they chose a stone, distressed leather with a cameo, showcasing, one of their photos and engraving of their name and wedding date. These albums make such a great heirloom and I love seeing their love story unfold in the album.
Sarah and Judah met at church and after just a couple coffee dates sparks were flying! Their relationship grew from there and over a year later Judah popped the question.
They share such a sweet love. I’m so happy for them.
The First Look is so special. 💕 It’s a time set aside, before the ceremony, for just the bride and groom to see each other and have a moment before they go into the rest of their day together.
Bride | Jess @jessica_r_marrs
Groom | Josh @jmarrs44
Venue & Caterer | Aliso Viejo Country Club @alisoviejoevents
Coordinator | Diana with Bella Magic Events @bellamagicevents
Florist | Bloom of Time @thebloomoftime
Cake | Sweet Traders @sweettraders
Beauty Team | Amy Park Studio A Newport Beach
DJ | Raise the Roof Entertainment @raisetheroofdjs.ca
Photographer | Janet Wheeland Photography @wheelandphoto