About thirteen years ago, Karina and Mike met at UC Santa Cruz… and thirteen years later, Karina and Mike’s wedding took place in at Holy Cross Church and the beautiful Chaminade in Santa Cruz, CA.  Just as relaxed and enjoyable Santa Cruz is, Karina and Mike’s wedding was as good as it gets; the weather was warm, it wasn’t windy at all, everyone had smiles on their faces, and… well, it was wonderful.

They got ready and had their reception at the Chaminade Resort and spa – surrounded by eucalyptus trees and a breathtaking view, it seemed like a great place  for a romantic weekend getaway.  While the girls were getting ready, it was lovely seeing another local Bay Area artist, Jira of WowPretty and her team doing the girls’ makeup and hair.

Karina and Mike saw each other for the first time as they walked down the aisle at the Holy Cross Church.

After they tied the knot, in a very fun old-school car, we headed to the Santa Cruz lighthouse where we took a few portraits while the guests enjoyed themselves at cocktail hour at the Chaminade.  As the beautiful sun set, Karina and Mike’s reception began.  She had beautiful up lighting and curtains dangling from the ceiling and it was everything she ever dreamed of.  Floral arrangements even had apples in them!  The speeches were heartwarming.

The most unique thing I’ve ever seen by far is this wonderful father/daughter dance.  Many years ago, Karina’s father used to sing, and so he wrote and recorded a song for her, which was the song they danced to during their father/daughter dance.

For the remainder of the night, everyone danced the night away to 80’s music!  I couldn’t thank both Karina + Mike enough for having us there!  You two are amazing people, and you both have such amazing families – we all had a great time and I couldn’t thank you two enough!!  Congratulations, *big hugs*  wishing you many years of happiness!

Assistants:  Jeff Kuo & Jose Morales

Makeup & Hair:  Jira from WOW Pretty

Hotel Resort & Reception:  Chaminade Resort & Spa, Santa Cruz

Church:  Holy Cross Church

❤ mn