Weddings are often described as the coming together of two people, their families and communities. This was certainly the case for Jason and Christopher, but it was more than that. I know this first hand as not only was Jason a client, but he’s been one of my best friends for almost fifteen years. As with many industries, working with friends can either be recipe for disaster or an opportunity to bond and become even closer. This experience was certainly the latter, and I had a feeling it would be knowing the story we were telling. This wedding was about two men who once never dreamed they would marry celebrating the undeniably perfect fit they are for one another. It was their chosen families who have witnessed their individual evolutions getting to see their personalities that came through in each detail from the vows that were exchanged to the desert choices. And it was a celebration of time. The wedding was a special moment in time, but also a reflection of how with time, previously conceived notions can soften leading to families accepting, bonding and loving more deeply.
All of their friends attending knew this would be a party filled with laughter, dancing and the feeling you could take your shoes off, because that is how these two men are socially. Selecting the Jeremy Hotel in West Hollywood as the venue made this easily achievable. Incredible views of Los Angeles combined with quirky design give it the relaxed glamour suitable for this couple. After champagne upon arrival, guests could either stand, sit or lounge on the multitude of throw pillows we brought in to enhance the atypical ceremony space. Cocktail hour was on the rooftop lounge to best enjoy the views of sunset while dining on passed canapes and sipping signature cocktails.
For the reception, we created a space with a combination of lounge seating and dining tables; food stations and bars; and a photo booth with a custom step-and-repeat background composed of various shows the guys have worked on. DJ Aaron Elvis kept the dance floor packed, only slowing for sentimental moments like the grooms dancing with their mothers or the heartfelt toasts given by family. The guys changed out of their suits into jeans and matching “Groom” t-shirts just as the candy and donut bar came out along with tray-passed wigs and glow jewelry to up the fun.
Of all the many details Jason and Christopher selected, I think it was their first dance that summed it up.
When you looked over your shoulder
For a minute, I forget that I'm older
I wanna dance with you right now
Oh, and you look as beautiful as ever
And I swear that everyday'll get better
You make me feel this way somehow
I'm so in love with you
And I hope you know
Darling your love is more than worth its weight in gold
We've come so far my dear
Look how we've grown
And I wanna stay with you until we're grey and old
Just say you won't let go
View the full gallery here
Venue: The Jeremy Hotel
Photographer: David Perlman Photography
DJ: Aaron Elvis
Rentals: Town & Country
Photo Booth: Jake Ross and Step and Repeat
Stationery: Minted