I met Chris and Gina several years ago when I first started dating Taro. It was actually in Mammoth and that was when Gina said, “Did you go to…” We realized that this was not our first encounter with each other, but we actually had P.E. together in junior high. It was great to reconnect and since then, our friendship has grown. So throughout those years, I watched Chris and Gina date, build a relationship and foundation with each other, marry, raise a beautiful girl and welcome a handsome young boy into the world, and renew their vows. Gina talked about renewing their vows several times so when I received their invitation in the mail, I was ecstatic and ready to celebrate the unconditional love Chris and Gina have for each other.
Some would say it was a downpour that day. If you ask others, Gina’s dad was showering her with love and happy tears from above. Regardless, the ceremony was intimate and touching, especially when the couple thanked each other for being the other half and for allowing each to give them a family. Afterwards, the celebration continued inside the beautiful cottage, The Raymond Restaurant.
The night was not just a celebration of Chris and Gina, but a dedication to family. Chris surprised Gina with a slide show of her father; with “Dance with My Father” playing in the background, tears were shed by everyone. It was a moving dedication, followed by a heartfelt dance between father and daughter, Chris and Jade. Gina, also, had a surprise for Chris. She discreetly took off her shoes and performed a solo Hawaiian dance. It felt like the world closed in on just those two – Gina only looked at Chris and Chris stood there in admiration of his friend, wife, partner, and companion.
It was a beautiful ceremony and reception, Chris and Gina, and I feel lucky to have been a part of it and have you two as friends. May your love continue to grow and flourish!
Tags: Los Angeles Photographer, Los Angeles Wedding Photographer, South Pasadena, The Raymond Restaurant, Wedding