Perona Farms Wedding - Marissa + Joe

Marissa and Joe had a beautiful wedding day at The Reserve at Perona Farms! Through all the uncertainty of this past year, Marissa and Joe were certain that they would marry each other on their original date. And they would also celebrate with their family and friends!

The Love Story

Marissa and Joe met 8 years ago on a dating app! Joe made the first move because Marissa claimed to make the world’s best grilled cheese. He might still be waiting to try that grilled cheese, but they’ve been inseparable ever since the beginning! Their first date was at Houlihan’s in November 2012. They were both very nervous but ended up staying there for 4 hours! One of those hours was taken up by some random person at the bar offering stock advice! They knew if they could endure stock advice from a stranger together, they could overcome anything! In January of 2019, Joe proposed to Marissa in their home after a quiet night of watching Parks and Rec. It was an amazing night they will never forget!

Bride and Groom Preparation at The Cottage House

On the morning of their wedding, Marissa and Joe got ready with their closest friends at Perona Farms. We loved the look of the white cottage house which was perfect for First Look photos, and also had a pretty awning where we could take photos while it was drizzling. The inside of the cottage is spacious and had a lot of room for the entire bridal party to get ready. The ladies were on the top floor and the guys (and groomswoman) were on the bottom floor. It is a great spot and very convenient when both partners are getting ready at the same location!

Marissa had beautiful details that matched the color scheme of different shades of pink and also navy blue. Also, she had asked her florist to provide loose florals for her flat lays!! As a photographer, you know it’s going to be a great day when you receive a separate collection of stems to play with! She also had included a custom ring box with Mr. and Mrs. Cook on the cover, and it was such a beautiful touch!

First Look at Perona Farms

It was a top priority for Marissa and Joe to get as many photos done early on in the day as possible. They opted for a First Look which is the best way to ensure making it to cocktail hour and enjoying the party! We set up their First Look on the lawn in front of the Cottage House in the background. The Cottage House at Perona Farms is a gorgeous white cottage which was the perfect backdrop for these portraits! As Marissa called Joe’s name, he turned around with excitement and a HUGE smile on his face!! He admired her as he walked closer and reached for her hand to look at his gorgeous bride. It was the sweetest moment for just the two of them!

Following First Look, we were able to finish all bridal party and immediate family photos. We can’t thank Marissa and Joe’s bridal party enough for being kind, cooperative and an absolute joy to work with! Doing these photos prior to ceremony was a breeze because no one was too hungry or thirsty yet! After the ceremony, everyone was able to enjoy cocktail hour and get the party started early!

Gorgeous Wedding Ceremony at the Reserve

The Reserve at Perona Farms is an absolutely stunning venue! The ceremony space has an indoor and outdoor option which is very convenient in case of rain. The roof is retractable to let in gorgeous natural light, but is also clear! So if it is closed, sunlight is still able to bring a beautiful natural brightness to the setting and photos. Marissa and Joe had each row decorated with pretty greenery and ribbons that matched the girls’ dresses. The Reserve has a gorgeous stone wall at the front of the space, which the couple had beautifully decorated with neutral and pastel flowers and fabrics. The ceremony decor was to die for!!

Marissa’s brother was the officiant and he did such a wonderful job! He had all of the guests laughing and enjoying the beautiful moments leading up to Marissa and Joe saying ‘I do!’. He also planned for a quiet moment in honor of the people who were present in spirit, especially Joe’s father who had passed away. After saying their vows, Marissa had the honor of placing, on his left hand, the wedding band that belonged to Joe’s father.

The Reserve at Perona Farms Wedding Reception

The Reserve at Perona Farms is such a beautiful space. A perfect balance between rustic and elegant! Each table was decorated with a lot of beautiful greenery and candles. The chandelier in the middle of the dance floor glistened in the ambient light and it was so gorgeous!

As Marissa and Joe were announced into the reception, their guests erupted in joy and cheered for the new Mr. and Mrs.! They had the sweetest entrance and danced together taking it all in. They danced their first dance to “Carrying Your Love With Me” and sang along together. There weren’t many dry eyes among their parents and bridal party (and let’s be honest, their photo and video team!). The couple was honored by their Best Man and Maid of Honor who prepared beautiful speeches telling everyone about the wonderful people that Marissa and Joe are. We know from working with them over the last year, that they both truly have big hearts and are kinda and genuine people!

Congratulations again to Marissa and Joe on their Perona Farms wedding!! We are so happy for you and we wish you so much love and happiness!