Love has a funny way of finding us in unexpected places, and for Kacee and Eric, it all began in 2014 at the College of San Mateo. Their shared passion for the pool brought them together as swim coaches and instructors at the San Mateo Athletic Club, marking the beginning of a journey filled with laughter, adventure, and, of course, love. Beyond the pool, their shared interests in dining out and enjoying the great outdoors, particularly with their beloved dogs in tow, became the backdrop to countless cherished moments. Fast forward to a surprise Maui getaway that turned into a life-changing adventure. Eric, with a clever plan to propose on a private waterfall hike, navigated the hurdles of airport security with a ring hidden in his bag, creating a memory that perfectly captures the essence of their relationship—filled with humor, surprises, and a resounding 'yes' in the midst of unexpected twists.

Every aspect of Kacee and Eric's wedding day reflect their love and the love they share with their community of friends and family. From the tender getting ready moments to the heartwarming ceremony to the exquisite dancing, the radiation of their love was felt by all.

The day started off with the hustle and bustle that all weddings experience. Kacee prepared at The Studio in Downtown Sacramento. The bright and white salon was the perfect setting for a wedding morning. Kacee and her ladies shared laughter, mimosas, and a grand dress reveal together.

Bride has makeup done at Sacramento salon.
Bridal hair done in downtown Sacramento captured by best California wedding photographer
Bridal details during getting ready including getting into wedding dress captured by documentary wedding photographer.
Bridesmaids first look with bride at The Salon in Sacramento
Getting ready moments captured by top wedding photographer in Bay Area California

Nearby, at an AirBnB, Eric's preparations were under way. Drinks were passed around as Eric was surrounded with the many important men in his life. Flutters of laughter and warm memories were shared between Eric's friends and family up until the final touches were in place.

Groom prepares for wedding morning.
Groom getting ready moments captured by Bay Area wedding photographer and videographer team
Getting ready moments for men on wedding morning

Everyone moved from their getting ready locations to Eleganto Rancho, a private estate where the wedding was held. To begin group portraits, Kacee and Eric shared a first look. The couple was filled with anticipation as the moment unfolded near a pine tree located near the ceremony space. As the heat of the day soaked in, both Kacee and Eric settled into the intimacy of their first look before the rest of the day ramped up.

First look with anticipation and groom's emotions
Happy first look in Sacramento
Bride and groom portrait after first look
Veil portrait during wedding day by San Jose wedding photographer
True color wedding photographer captures details

As sun peeked through the beautiful greenery, we found a pocket of shade to stay cool in for wedding party portraits. As the wedding celebration came closer, the wedding party hooted and hollered in support of a day nearly 10 years in the making. Pups, Oakley and Aria were also included in photos as key members of the wedding party!

Bridesmaids in sage color gowns
Candid bridal party portraits captured by wedding photography and videography team
Candid bridal party portraits captured by wedding photography and videography team based in San Jose
Large formal wedding party portraits near San Jose, California
Dogs in wedding portraits in California
Dogs in wedding photos by San Jose wedding photographers
Bridal party portraits at multicultural wedding near San Jose California
Candid bridal party portraits captured by wedding photography and videography team
Groom with groomsmen in candid photo

Unknowingly, the wedding date coincided with an airshow at the nearby Sacramento airport! As guests waited for the ceremony to begin, they had a perfect view of some exquisite aerial art, including this perfect heart.

Airplane heart above wedding ceremony
Groom walked down aisle on wedding day
Outdoor wedding ceremony with sunshades
Emotional groom at beginning of wedding ceremony
Why to write personal vows on wedding day
First kiss as married couple
Dramatic and romantic wedding exit photos

Cocktail hour was filled with delicious drinks, yard games, and an amazing fruit spread to munch on before being seated. The personalized details at each place setting made for both delicious and thoughtful favors for guests to enjoy.

Signature drink inspiration for wedding with dogs
Unique meal ideas for wedding: fruit charcuterie board
Unique wedding guestbook ideas
Unique wedding favor ideas include favorite types of candy

Once everyone mixed, mingled, and enjoyed a beverage or two, the first dance began. Kacee and Eric shared a beautifully choreographed dance to Perfect (Spanish and English Version) by Ed Sheeran. As the song began to wind down, the wedding party encircled the newlyweds. The joy in the moment was shared by everyone in attendance and could be felt so tangibly.

Lightly choreographed first dance on wedding day before dinner
Lifts during wedding dance give beautiful wedding pictures
Wedding party surrounds couple during first dance

As dinner began to be served to the 300 guests in attendance, the newlyweds snuck out to the field behind the venue for a moment to reset. During their golden hour portraits, they reflected on how their wedding day had gone so far and shared in anticipation of the party about to begin.

Newlywed portraits during golden hour in September
Sacramento golden hour wedding portraits
Unique ring photos for wedding day to show photographer

Following portraits and a delicious meal, family and friends shared speeches filled with funny anecdotes and touching memories of Kacee and Eric as both individuals and a couple. Laughs were shared by all, tears rolled down cheeks, and everyone felt a warmth as the newlyweds were celebrated through each of the touching toasts. As many guests in attendance spoke Spanish, some speeches were given twice - in both English and Spanish!

Bilingual speech given during multicultural wedding
Father speeches during large wedding
Bridesmaids give short speeches during large wedding
Cutting multi-level cake during wedding reception

To kick off an open dance floor, Kacee and Eric danced to the band's brassy, upbeat music. From dancing with friends and family members to the snake dance, the reception was quite the event to participate in. The snake dance was a tradition from Eric's Hispanic roots they chose to incorporate in their wedding. During the snake dance, Kacee and Eric stood on separate chairs and held the veil between them. First the women in attendance wove under the arch and around the bride and groom. Then, the men took their turn. As the tempo quickened, preserving the arch created by the veil becomes more difficult! This tradition fosters an atmosphere of joy and unity, bringing everyone together in celebration.

Bride and groom dance as mariachi band serenades
Father daughter dance during outdoor wedding reception
Mother son dance during outdoor reception near Sacramento
Latino wedding reception tradition: the snake dance
Latino wedding reception tradition: the snake dance
Latino wedding reception tradition, the snake dance, with the veil as arch
Bride and groom lifted on chairs for kiss

As their happily ever after begins as husband and wife, Kacee and Eric continue to live a life full of adventure with their dogs.

Vendors:

Photography/Videography: Trevor and Elisebeth

Day of Coordinator: Sparkle & Lace Events

Hair and Makeup Stylists: Aria Collective - Cristin, Erin, Natalie

Dress: Blush Bridal - Eugene, OR

Jewelry: Olive & Piper

Menswear: Men's Wearhouse

Venue: Eleganto Rancho

Catering: Elena's Kitchen and Catering

Cake: Freeport Bakery