A Wildly Fun Zoo Wedding at San Diego Safari Park
Emily and Adam’s zoo wedding was easily one of the most original celebrations I’ve ever had the joy of photographing. These two Virginia-based veterinarians met in vet school and have been inseparable since. Emily is a wildlife vet, while Adam works ER shifts helping smaller pets. They both share a serious love of animals, ultimate frisbee, and all things offbeat. When it came to their wedding, fun was the top priority.
Their mid-November celebration at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido was full of whimsical details, heartfelt moments, and so many animal onesies—held on the Harusi Lawn for the ceremony and the Sambutan Longhouse for the reception. I first met them through their planner, Tara of Lu & Faye, and I knew right away their wedding would be something special. This zoo wedding was a true reflection of the couple’s joyful, imaginative spirit—completely untraditional, totally fun, and absolutely unforgettable.
A Wild Autumn Wedding with a View
Emily and Adam chose the Safari Park because it combined everything they love—wildlife, natural beauty, and the chance to do something totally unique. They knew it would be the perfect backdrop for the kind of fun, out-of-the-box celebration they envisioned. Their ceremony took place on the Harusi Lawn—yes, right next to the cheetah habitat! At one point, a cheetah even prowled into view during their vows! Their reception was held indoors at the Sambutan Longhouse on Tiger Trail, complete with a waterfall backdrop and (because it was November) festive holiday decor, including garland-lined beams and a towering Christmas tree. As a San Diego wedding photographer, the Safari Park holds a special place in my heart—I actually got married there myself, at the Kijamii Overlook! So photographing their day felt extra meaningful.
Onesies, Hybrid Creatures, and Dancing Tigers
After such a wild and beautiful setting, it only made sense that their wardrobe choices would be just as bold. The bride and groom rocked custom dragon onesies, and nearly every guest followed suit with their own animal-themed attire—from pandas to a two-person horse costume. It was equal parts hilarious and adorable—guests couldn’t stop laughing as they paraded in full costume. Their “ring-bearer” was a cardboard cutout of their dog, complete with the rings tied around its neck. Face painters added colorful animal designs to guests during cocktail hour. Classic.
Their reception tables featured handmade figurines of imaginary hybrid animals like the “Leopagle” (leopard + eagle), “Hoark” (horse + shark), and my personal favorite: “B-Rex” (bee + T. Rex). Guests were obsessed—taking photos at every table and swapping favorites throughout the night. It was such a playful, perfect reflection of Emily and Adam’s creativity and sense of humor. Each table name was paired with jungle-inspired frond centerpieces.
After toasts, the energy only ramped up—Adam’s college dance crew brought next-level moves that kept the party going strong. At one point, it felt like the entire guest list was on the dance floor, moving in full costume under twinkling lights.
Portraits, Personal Touches, and Playful Vibes
We kicked off portraits with a cheeky First Look on the Condor Trail Bridge, where the couple laughed and leaned into the absurdity of seeing each other in full onesie attire. We followed with portraits in the Succulent Garden. Later that evening, I stole them away for romantic nighttime portraits by the waterfall behind the Longhouse.
These two wanted a mix of elegance and humor. I guided them through it all with a balance of editorial styling and easygoing fun. This approach shaped every part of our portrait time together. I also created a custom collection to match their vision—making sure no moment of their incredible day was missed.
Emily and Adam’s celebration was the perfect mix of heart, humor, and wild originality—from animal onesies and face paint to dancing tigers and hybrid creature centerpieces. Their zoo wedding was a joyful reminder that the most memorable weddings are the ones that stay true to who you are. I’m so glad I got to be there to capture every playful, love-filled moment.
