Laurel + Sunny | Baraat Procession Meets Mariachi at Cherry Blossom Wedding Venue

Laurel and Sunny’s wedding was an explosion of color and culture! Sunny’s Indian heritage and Laurel’s Mexican and Filipino roots came together in a delightful celebration of love and unity. The Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park was a whimsical paradise, bedecked with cherry blossoms in full bloom. As their trusted wedding photographer, I had the honor of capturing every vibrant moment, starting with the lively and joyous baraat procession featuring classic lowrider cars. I’d photographed another wedding at Balboa Park’s The Prado before. This was the first wedding I’d been to in the Japanese Friendship Garden. I was excited to capture the beauty of their wedding with the surrounding cherry blossoms painting a stunning backdrop.

Baraat Procession Meets Mariachi

As is customary at Indian weddings, our groom made a grand entrance with a baraat procession with his family and friends. Sunny put a special touch on this tradition by riding in with his groomsmen in lowrider cars! A DJ with a mobile setup amped up the crowd accompanied by the invigorating beats of the Indian Dholis. As they descended the hill, a live mariachi band joined their procession, invigorating the air with vibrant melodies. Canisters of colorful smoke were released, marking the fusion of cultures and the beginning of an unforgettable celebration.

Vows Exchanged Amidst Cherry Blossom Splendor

Sunny, Laurel, and their families graced the occasion in resplendent Indian ensembles. Even their cherished dog, Scruffy, donned a custom Indian wedding outfit! Laurel’s stunning lehenga featured detailed embroidery and a long, flowing skirt. The venue set the stage for an enchanting ceremony in the Lower Garden. Laurel and Sunny exchanged vows on a picturesque wooden bridge, surrounded by cherry blossom trees. I love how they made the Balboa Park garden their own, infusing their colorful cultures with its natural beauty. Following the ceremony, we took portraits in the greenery surrounding the Inamori Pavilion and beside the slick lowrider cars. It was so much fun working with the couple and capturing their special moments on camera.

Vibrant Design Sets The Stage For Love

The reception, held in the Inamori Pavilion, was a sight to behold, with its lavish decor and inviting ambiance. They made sure to incorporate every aspect of their cultures, from the attire to the décor, which brightened up the reception space with Indian and Mexican-inspired colors. There was a large stage adorned in opulent florals and set with a cozy couch, where the couple, along with Scruffy, were regaled with heartwarming and humorous toasts from their loved ones. The entertainment was also steeped in tradition with close family and friends performing traditional Indian dances. It was a beautiful celebration of the couple, their heritage, and love.

The night grew into an ecstatic whirlwind as everyone united on the dance floor in a symphony of rhythmic beats and pure jubilation. As their wedding photographer, I was thrilled at the opportunity to capture the majestic beauty of the Japanese Friendship Garden and the cultural fusion that Laurel and Sunny brought to their San Diego wedding. It was a beautiful contrast of traditional Indian and Mexican cultures, paired together with vibrant colors, unmatched energy, and unique music. I can honestly say that Laurel and Sunny made me feel like part of their family, and it was a delightful experience to capture each moment. I had an incredible time photographing their wedding day, from the lively baraat procession to the reception party.