MODERN ROMANCE MEETS OLD WORLD CHARM | COCO PALM, POMONA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

When I think back on A+C'S wedding at Coco Palm Restaurant in Pomona, three things come to mind: stunning views, heartfelt moments, and seriously iconic details. Their day was filled with personal touches, stylish nods to classic romance, and just the right amount of Gen Z flair (looking at you, heart-shaped cake and parasol portraits).

As a Southern California wedding photographer, this venue had that old-world charm—perched high above the city, with golden light pouring onto the terrace and views that stretch for miles. Every corner of Coco Palm feels like a dream, and A+C truly made it their own.

A got ready in a soft-lit bridal suite, surrounded by her closest people, vintage lace gloves, and the most delicate white lily bouquet I’ve ever seen. Before she even stepped into her dress, I could tell how intentional she was with every element—her look, her details, her vibe.

One of my favorite moments from that morning was capturing her diamond ring balanced on the heel of her bridal shoe, framed by the soft curve of a lily.

These are the kinds of detail shots I live for—elevated, editorial, and totally unique to the couple. They might seem small, but they help tell the full story of your day in a way that feels rich and layered.

Later, Anna stepped out onto a Juliette balcony for a quiet moment to herself. The sunlight filtered perfectly through her lily bouquet, and she looked like she walked straight out of an old film—but make it modern.

One of the things I always bring to a wedding day is an eye for subtle but meaningful details—the kinds of things you may not notice right away, but later realize capture the spirit of the day in a powerful way.

For A+C, it was about more than just documenting moments. It was about noticing the way the light framed her bouquet, the stillness before their first touch, the joy during a spontaneous bridesmaid laugh. These details are what make each wedding gallery personal, not just pretty.

Instead of a traditional first look, A+C chose to share a first touch and private vows before the ceremony, standing back to back, holding hands, and exchanging words that were just for them. It was a beautiful and emotional moment, and one I always feel honored to witness.

If you’re not sure about doing a first look but still want to carve out space for a quiet moment together, this is such a meaningful alternative.

The ceremony took place on the upper terrace, surrounded by palm trees, soft breeze, and the mountains in the distance. The florals—an elegant mix of blush and ivory roses, white lilies, and fresh greenery—framed their arch beautifully, catching the sunlight as they exchanged vows.

That kiss under the floral arch? Pure movie magic. Their ceremony had that kind of soft glam feeling you get from golden light, real emotion, and a view that doesn't need a filter.

As they walked back down the aisle, guests tossed dried floral confetti, which floated beautifully through the air and added such a unique, celebratory touch. It was visually stunning and a fun, eco-friendly way to mark the moment.

Right after the ceremony, the energy totally shifted—in the best way. Cue the bridesmaids in flowy dresses, laughing under parasols, and everyone fully leaning into the joy of the moment.

The parasols were such a fun touch (and a great prop for photos), adding a whimsical, vintage feel that still felt fresh and playful.

Everyone was glowing, the lighting was perfect, and we captured tons of movement and laughter. These were the “we’re in our bridesmaid era” kind of moments that deserve their own photo spread.

Once the guests moved into cocktail hour, we stole a few moments on the French-inspired terrace for couple portraits—and wow, did Anna and Chris bring it. Between the lift, the veil shots, the parasol photos, and the way they looked at each other, it felt like every frame belonged on the cover of a magazine.

The light was chef’s kiss. We caught that dreamy, golden hour glow that turns skin radiant and adds this kind of cinematic depth to every photo. It was a perfect mix of editorial and emotional—styled, but still so full of feeling. With soft stucco walls, classic French balustrade railings, and panoramic mountain views, the terrace offered a dreamy, romantic backdrop that paired beautifully with A+C’s style.

We played with movement and light, incorporating their white parasols in creative ways. The parasols not only added a touch of vintage charm, but also helped soften and shape the light, casting the most beautiful shadows and diffused glow across their faces. They danced, embraced, and laughed, and I was able to capture a mix of both timeless, posed portraits and more candid, emotive moments.

As the sun began to set, the sky turned warm and golden, giving everything that soft, glowy light photographers dream of. We captured a few final frames during golden hour, including a lift, veil-draped portraits, and quiet moments where they simply held each other and took in the view. Every shot felt cinematic, full of warmth and genuine connection—truly some of my favorite portraits of the day.

As the sun dipped lower, Anna and Chris shared their first dance on the terrace, surrounded by friends and family. It was a gentle, heartfelt moment set against the pastel evening sky.

Afterward, the celebration moved inside to the main ballroom, where guests were welcomed by warm lighting, a classic layout, and thoughtful touches—including a retro-inspired heart-shaped cake topped with cherries. It was charming, unique, and a perfect nod to the couple’s personality.

Once the dance floor opened, the energy shifted into full celebration. I focused on capturing those candid, motion-filled dance photos that bring a reception gallery to life—movement, laughter, connection, and everyone fully enjoying the moment. From soft moments to high-energy dancing, it was a joy to document every part of their story.

Planning a Coco Palm Wedding?

Coco Palm is such a beautiful venue for couples looking for a romantic, scenic location with a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. If you’re planning your own wedding there—or anywhere in Southern California—and are looking for photography that feels intentional, natural, and artful, I’d love to connect.