Rachel and Andrue had an over the top wedding. They had the kind of wedding that I love to photograph and the kind of wedding I would want to have for myself. They held their wedding at Villa Mareas, a beautiful mountain top Villa which is more of an estate. The views from the high up venue are amazing, and also provide complete privacy and the ability to party as long and as loud as you want, since there are no nearby neighbors. It was the perfect space for this wedding and provided a beautiful backdrop with lots of options for portraits. 

The day started with Rachel getting ready. She was accompanied by her bridesmaids and both mothers. She chose a lace dress with a nude underlay, it looked gorgeous on her. She also wore a beautiful back necklace which drew attention to the tattoo on her back that she and Andrue designed. 

While the ladies were finishing up with the last touches of hair and makeup I made my way over to Andrue who was getting ready with his groomsmen and both fathers. He had an old fashion pocket watch which fascinated me, and wore a full suit complete with a tweed vest, despite the hot weather. He looked sharp, and the color palette worked perfectly. 

By the time I returned to Rachel she was ready to put on her dress and accessories. 

The ceremony was held on the pool deck with views of the Pacific Ocean. Beautiful florals were set on modern wooden boxes, creating an alter for Rachel and Andrue. A pair of violinist played as the bride walked down the aisle.

After the ceremony we made our way around the property taking portraits, ending back at the pool deck for sunset photos. 

Rachel and Andrue, along with the help of their wedding planners from Tropical Occasions, put a lot of effort into making the reception area a beautiful space. Round tables were set with woven chargers and beautiful floral centerpieces. The ceiling was draped with fabric, bringing an added touch of elegance to this outdoor, jungle celebration. 

It was Rachel's Dad's birthday so they surprised him with a custom made surf themed cake. The entire group sang happy birthday to him. Having his daughter get married to love of her life must of been a great birthday present to him as well.

After the formal dances Rachel, Andrue and their guests danced the night away. Reggae music could be heard throughout the entire day, and the reception was no exception. People kicked off their shoes and took to the dance floor. 

After dancing everyone headed to the pool to cool off. Andrue enjoyed some cigars with some of his friends which made for some fun photos. 

Photography: Madison Baltodano Photography
Videography: Baltodano Films
Venue: Villa Mareas
Wedding Planner: Tropical Occasions
Designer: Aimee Monihan
Coordinator: Karen Ogden 
Florist: Stylos y Flores
Rentals: Costa Mesa
Lighting and AV: Cabo Luna
DJ: DJ Estif
Cake: Mariposa Pastry
​Catering: Citrus Ojochal

Brittany and Chris are getting married in Costa Rica in 2019. It isn't often that I get to photograph my wedding couples before their wedding day. It was such a pleasure to meet and photograph them. They were staying at Villas Alturas, a mountain top wildlife sanctuary with views overlooking the "whale's tail" in Uvita, Costa Rica. 

Purity and Cole rented a beautiful villa in the hilltops of Uvita, Costa Rica to have their wedding. The villa had magnificent views of the Pacific ocean and surrounding mountains. Getting to the villa was a little confusing, but once I was there the owner the house greeted me and it all made sense. It was beautiful and as peaceful as could be.

Purity was getting ready in the master suite, where she was doing her own hair and makeup, a true DIY bride. Her mother, sisters and friends accompanied her. 

Cole was getting ready with the help of his father in the stand alone mother in law suite of the villa. He wore a handsome navy blue suit for the big day.

The intimate ceremony was setup on the terrace of the house overlooking the ocean in the distance. It was simple yet perfect. A minister lead the religious ceremony for the couple. Thoughtfully picked out favors with a Costa Rican flare awaited the guests as they arrived to the ceremony.

After the ceremony the newlyweds had their portraits taken around the villa. Purity and Cole make a stunning couple!

The dinner reception was also held on the terrace. Speeches were given which brought laughter to the room, and first dances were shared.

Photography: Yours Truly
Venue: Castillo del Sol
​Officiant: Debbie Boling