Our favorite way to get to know our couples is to ask them about their love story. Aurina & Hanyong's is both quirky and charming.


Aurina and Hanyong first met in college, it was a simple "hey" in passing. Five years later, this guy with name "Hotdog Cho" sent Aurina a message and she wondered what it could possibly be about. Naturally, she ignored him. Two weeks later Aurina finally replied back and asked if he loved Costco hot dogs - ever since they hit it off with their love of Costco!


The couple's favorite dates are ones spent exploring new places, cooking fancy dinners at home, and taking their dogs hiking or to the beach.


The proposal took place in Maui with an early wakeup call to watch the sunrise at Haleakala. Since they arrived a bit early, they enjoyed a nap in the car and nearly missed the sun rising over the massive volcanic crater! Hanyong went to set up the tripod so they could take pictures together, but he hit record instead. It was so cold and windy (yes, even in Hawai'i) so Aurina was bundled up with a hood and a blanket over the backpack she was wearing. Aurina claims she looked like a turtle! Almost ready to 'take the photo,' Hanyong starts saying mushy things to her that he doesn't typically say. She immediately darted her eyes at him and felt the emotions bubbling up in her eyes. He said more and more cheesy things, got down on one knee, and the rest is history!

Aurina and Hanyong prepared for their wedding day at the same property - an alpaca farm! The adorable farmhouse was the perfect setting where both bride and groom could prepare with their dear friends and family without seeing each other prior to their first look.

One of our favorite observations of their wedding preparations was there was not loud music playing! While many couples choose to have some favorite tunes on while they get ready, the lack of music was refreshing because we could hear the conversation and laughter that filled the room. There was certainly a sense of calm and peace for both guys and gals while they prepared for the day.

Unique ring box for wedding day with glass etching
Groom detail flatlay featuring brown shoes and dusty pink bow tie.
Groomsmen getting ready moments on wedding day in Northern California.
Grooms getting ready moments on wedding day in Northern California.
Groomsmen getting ready moments on wedding day in Northern California.
Bridesmaids and bridal gown detail shot on wedding day.
Bride getting makeup done by Makeup by Amy S
Bride and bridesmaids getting ready together in Turlock California.
Bride and bridesmaids getting ready together in Turlock California.
Bride adjusting finishing touches on wedding morning.
Bride adjusting finishing touches on wedding morning.
Bride adjusting finishing touches on wedding morning.

Aurina and Hanyong's first look on their wedding day was a truly intimate and emotional moment. As they saw each other for the first time in their wedding attire, their eyes locked and they couldn't help but tear up with joy. They hugged each other tightly, taking in the moment and expressing their love without words.

As they settled into their excitement, Eska and Koji, their beloved pups, joined in for a portrait, too.

Groom excited by first look on wedding day at Pageo Lavender Farm.
Groom excited by first look on wedding day at Pageo Lavender Farm.
Groom excited by first look on wedding day at Pageo Lavender Farm
Emotional first look in Northern California. Photography by top-rated California wedding photography team.
Emotional first look in Northern California. Photography by top-rated California wedding photography team.
Emotional first look in Northern California. Photography by top-rated California wedding photography team.
First look with dogs in Northern California. Photography by top-rated California wedding photography team.

Aurina and Hanyong's wedding party portraits were filled with laughter and joy. All dressed in elegant attire, they gathered together for group photos, each member beaming with happiness for the big day.

Full wedding party portrait with lavender bridesmaid dresses.
Full wedding party portrait with lavender bridesmaid dresses.
Fun wedding party portrait with lavender bridesmaid dresses.
Full wedding party portrait with tunnel.
Bridesmaids portrait with lavender bridesmaid dresses. Photographed by best female-led wedding photography team.
Bridesmaids portrait with lavender bridesmaid dresses. Photographed by best female-led wedding photography team.
Bridesmaids portrait with lavender bridesmaid dresses. Photographed by best female-led wedding photography team.
Groomsmen portrait with two tone jackets.
Groomsmen portrait with two tone jackets.
Fun groomsmen portrait on wedding day.

The couple themselves were radiant as they posed with their parents, siblings, and closest friends. The love and support of their loved ones was evident in every shot, making the portraits a treasured memory for years to come.

Elegant family portrait on wedding day.
Elegant family portrait with both sides of family on wedding day.
Elegant family portrait on wedding day.

Aurina and Hanyong's wedding ceremony was a deeply touching experience. The lighting was dappled, casting a warm and romantic glow over the ceremony as the couple exchanged their vows. Aurina walked down the aisle, arm in arm with her mother, her eyes locked on Hanyong's as tears streamed down her face. Hanyong was equally emotional, his eyes misting over as he watched his bride approach. The love and adoration between the couple was radiating through their friends and family as they exchanged their vows, promising to love and cherish each other for the rest of their lives. The ceremony was a truly beautiful moment that will be forever etched in the memories of Aurina and Hanyong, and all who witnessed it.

Ceremony details and welcome table at outdoor wedding ceremony in Turlock, CA.
Groom's entrance to wedding ceremony outdoors at Pageo Lavender Farm.
Bridesmaid and groomsman walking down aisle for outdoor wedding.
Bridesmaid and groomsman walking down aisle for outdoor wedding.
Bridesmaid and groomsman walking down aisle for outdoor wedding.
Bridesmaid and groomsman with dogs walking down aisle for outdoor wedding.
Ring bearer walking down aisle for outdoor wedding.
Young ring bearer walking down aisle for outdoor wedding.
Flower boy throwing petals to "A Thousand Miles" by Vanessa Carlton.
Grooms' emotional reaction to bride walking down aisle during outdoor wedding ceremony.
Mother walks daughter down aisle for wedding ceremony. Photographed by best Northern California wedding photographer.
Mother walks daughter down aisle for wedding ceremony. Photographed by best Northern California wedding photographer.
Outdoor wedding ceremony in September. Photographed by best Northern California wedding photographer.
Outdoor wedding ceremony in September. Photographed by best Northern California wedding photographer.
Outdoor wedding ceremony in September. Photographed by best Northern California wedding photographer.
Couple's first kiss during outdoor wedding ceremony in September. Photographed by best California wedding photographer.
Newlyweds' exit outdoor wedding ceremony in September. Photographed by best California wedding photographer.
Newlyweds' exit outdoor wedding ceremony in September. Photographed by best Bay-Area wedding photographer.

Aurina and Hanyong's tea ceremony followed their wedding. It was a beautiful and meaningful tradition that honored their families and cultures. Aurina changed into a beautiful traditional gown. They kneeled before their parents and siblings and served them tea, expressing their gratitude and respect. It was a heartfelt moment that showcased the couple's deep connection to their heritage and families, and the love and support they have for each other.

Tea ceremony decor at Pageo Lavender Farm
Traditional Chinese tea ceremony following wedding.
Traditional Chinese tea ceremony following wedding.
Traditional Chinese tea ceremony following wedding honoring late father.
Traditional Chinese tea ceremony filled with family love.
Traditional Chinese tea ceremony following wedding.
Traditional Chinese tea ceremony following wedding.

Cocktail hour was filled with fun and entertainment! From delicious food and drinks, like boba, to lawn games and a photo booth, guests enjoyed their time with one another as they celebrated the marriage of Aurina and Hanyong. Pageo Lavender Farms has a beautiful lawn space to host any wedding day entertainment one could imagine!

Wedding decor in cocktail hour area at Pageo Lavender Farm
Boba as drink option for cocktail hour at a wedding in Northern California.
Cocktails inspired by bride and groom's dogs at their wedding.
Photo booth at Pageo Lavender Farm

As cocktail hour came to a close, the guests transitioned into the beautiful reception hall. With great joy, the newlyweds made their grand entrance into a room filled with love for them. They swiftly began their first dance to You Are the Reason by Calum Scott and Leona Lewis. Their choreography rivaled the sophistication and elegance of dancing on Bridgerton.

Newlyweds' grand entrance into reception hall.
Newlyweds' grand entrance into reception hall with mother of bride watching.
Bridgerton-inspired first dance at wedding in Bay Area California.
Bridgerton-inspired first dance at wedding in Bay Area California.
Bridgerton-inspired first dance at wedding in Bay Area California.
Bridgerton-inspired first dance at wedding in Bay Area California.

Pageo Lavender Farm's reception hall boasts beautiful vaulted ceilings with exposed wood and an incredible greenery-filled statement piece. Aurina and Hanyong's table decor with eucalyptus and candles leaned into the day's romantic vibes.

Wedding reception details at Central Valley wedding venue.
Wedding reception details at Central Valley wedding venue.
Romantic reception details with eucalyptus leaves and candles.
Wedding reception details at Central Valley wedding venue.
Romantic reception details with eucalyptus leaves and candles.

As friends and family shared speeches about Aurina and Hanyong, emotion filled the room. As memories of Aurina's father were shared by her mother, you could feel his presence. Her mother shared about Aurina's love for her father and how proud he would be of her on the beautiful wedding day. Aurina and Hanyong both acknowledged their friends and family for the roles they have played in their lives as individuals and as a couple while expressing deep gratitude for all. Both bridesmaids and groomsmen shared hilarious stories about the bride and groom, filling the room with laughter from all. The speeches shared an insight to the joy they experience together in their relationship.

Mother of bride gives wedding day speech honoring her late husband.
Couple gives speech thanking guests on wedding day.
Best man gives speech during wedding reception.
Maid of honor gives speech during wedding reception.
Matron of honor gives memorable speech.
Newlyweds cut cake during wedding reception.
Asian couple feeds each other wedding cake as reception event.

The lavender farm has peak bloom in June, but that doesn't mean the fields are not beautiful year round!

We snuck the happy couple away to the lavender during golden hour for some adorable portraits. Aurina's calm demeanor highlights Hanyong's playful soul in the most endearing ways - their portraits reflected their personalities and relationship in such a beautiful way.

Golden hour wedding portraits for newlyweds in lavender field.
Golden hour wedding portraits for newlyweds in lavender field. Photography by Bay Area wedding photographer.
Golden hour wedding portraits for newlyweds in lavender field. Photography by Bay Area wedding photographer.
Romantic wedding portraits for newlyweds in lavender field. Photography by Bay Area wedding photographer.
Romantic wedding portraits in lavender field. Photography by Bay Area wedding photographer.
Romantic wedding portraits in lavender field. Photography by Bay Area wedding photographer.

As the dance floor filled with friends and family, Aurina and Hanyong enjoyed boogying with all! Aurina made a wardrobe change into a shorter gown and adorable tennis shoes so she could dance all night long.

Groom dances with his mom during wedding reception.
Groom dances with his family during wedding reception.
Bride changed dress and shoes during reception to dance.
Bride and groom's families dance together as combined family.
Wedding reception at Pageo Lavender Farm.
Bride changed dress and shoes during reception to dance.
Bride changed dress and shoes during reception to dance.
Dancing during wedding reception in Northern California.

Vendors:

Photography/Videography: Trevor & Elisebeth

Day of Coordinator: Kylie Dawn Events

Hair & Makeup Artist: Makeup by Amy S

Dress: Stillwhite

Florist: Florals 4 You

Venue: Pageo Lavender Farm

Catering: Pageo Lavender Farm

Cake: Olde Tyme Pastries

Ice Cream: Oak Barrel Creamery

Boba: T4

DJ: Martinez DJ Service