You know that moment when you are watching a love story "chick flick" and you find yourself in tears because the love that two people share is something so real that it brings instant waterworks? Well, from the moment Courtney and her girls walked into the bridal suite, and Cristian & his guys cheers'd to the day, the energy they expressed and the smiles they had was a signal today was going to be one of those love stories.  

The day started at the beautiful Grand Tradition Estate& Gardens in Fallbrook California. This is a dream wedding venue for any San Diego wedding photographer. We had the privilege of photographing one of the best couples to work with. Being from the same city and growing up in Temecula California it was awesome to connect and be a part of such an important day. Her is a look at some of the moments below.

When it was time for the first look with Courtney and her dad, I turned the corner to signal him and let him know we are ready for him to walk up and see Courtney. He was having a moment, a moment of childhood flashbacks of Courtney bringing tears of joy to rush down his face. The moment he saw his daughter, and Courtney saw her father you could only imagine the reaction… pure bliss. 

Capturing a brides reaction when she first sees her parents is such a special moment and we are so glad we were able to capture the reaction of Courtney and her dad. With Courtney surrounded in the giant palm trees, the venue seamed like a tropical, destination wedding more so than a Southern California wedding. 

There is no doubt the happiness that radiated from Cristian the moment he saw his beautiful bride walking down the isle. Instant tears filled his eyes… along with everyone else. From their vows and promise to each other, to the grand exit, running through the sparklers as Mr. and Mrs. Sierra, this Love Story was nothing short of magical.

When asking Courtney about her and Cristian's love story, this is what she expressed. 

"Cristian and I started dating January 2015, after we met at Ponte Winery in Temecula, CA, where we both worked. It didn't take long for us to fall for each other's vibrant, fun, and full of life personalities. There was no doubt in our minds that we were meant to be together. In September 2016, Cristian asked me to be his wife at our favorite place and the happiest place on Earth... Disneyland! After a 9 month engagement, we were married on June 30th, 2017 at Grand Tradition Estate and Garden in Fallbrook, CA. Our wedding day was a fairytale and was a perfect way to celebrate our love, dedication to each other, and friendship. "

Both Andy and myself had such an amazing time capturing the love these two share,  these will be memories that will last them a lifetime, and not to mention the gorgeous venue they selected as their tropical paradise.  

A huge shoutout to the vendors who were a part of The Sierra Wedding:
Officiant: Steve Salomon with Rancho Community Church
DJ: Rick Walker with ProCity DJ
Videographer: Rick Martinez with Diamond Image Films
Florist: Patricia Sterger with Wedding Flowers By Patricia
Bakery: Alexis Kuehl with Heaven Sent Cakes
Makeup: Courtnee Purdie with Purdie Makeup
Hair: Britt Carattini
Dress: Essense of Australia