A Love Story Nine Years in the Making
Eve and Gabe’s special day at a unique wedding venue was nothing short of magical. They first met nine years ago during a gap year program, where they lived, worked, and grew together as part of the same team. Eve was drawn to Gabe’s style, while Gabe found Eve to be the easiest person to talk to. Their bond deepened over time, remaining strong even through long-distance five years ago. In 2020, they finally settled in San Diego together. From trying new restaurants to simply enjoying each other’s company, Eve and Gabe love doing everything together.
I first met Eve through my wife, who was her coworker. Leslie recommended she stop by my booth at the Bridal Bazaar to see if we’d be a good fit. We hit it off instantly, and soon after, I had the privilege of capturing their engagement session at Balboa Park. They weren’t initially sure if their wedding would be in Southern California or closer to family out of state. Once they decided on San Diego, however, they knew they wanted me as their wedding photographer. Their wedding, which took place in early October at Belmont Park—an exciting and unique wedding venue—was an unforgettable celebration of fun, love, and whimsy.
A Unique Wedding Venue with a View
The day began at the Hyatt Mission Bay Resort, where Eve and Gabe got ready in separate suites. Hyatt’s lawn overlooking Mission Bay provided a serene backdrop before the main event. Belmont Park, their chosen venue, had some surprises during the planning process—like double-booking their original date and making unexpected changes to their timeline, which caused some stress for Eve and Gabe as they adjusted their plans. Despite these challenges, the couple remained positive. The venue worked to make amends by arranging an Old Town Trolley for their wedding party, turning an initial setback into a fun and memorable experience. This thoughtful gesture not only eased logistics but also provided a spectacular setting for their First Look, adding a charming touch to their day. Eve and Gabe shared a beautifully emotional moment before taking portraits with the trolley and the nearby Mission Bay Bridge.
Belmont Park itself is a theme park, complete with a roller coaster, Ferris wheel, and endless entertainment. For Eve and Gabe, it was the perfect setting to bring their love of fun and adventure to life on their wedding day. While the park buzzed with energy and excitement, the rooftop terrace offered a tranquil retreat, allowing guests to enjoy the lively atmosphere below without feeling overwhelmed. The atmosphere was elegant yet whimsical, offering stunning ocean views and a peaceful contrast to the vibrant theme park below. This unique wedding venue set the stage for a celebration filled with personality. From pre-ceremony popcorn to a lively Mariachi band, they set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Vintage Elegance & Whimsical Details
Eve honored tradition in a special way—through her attire. Her getting-ready robe was crafted from her mother’s wedding dress. Likewise, her gown was a repurposed vintage piece from Loved Twice Bridal, a boutique specializing in sustainable wedding fashion. Florals by Tess Fresh Flowers perfectly complemented the wedding’s blue, purple, and green color palette, adding vibrance to the day. Instead of traditional table numbers, each reception table was named after a Belmont Park attraction, further tying in their unique wedding venue.
The ceremony was officiated by Gabe’s brother Gerald, making the moment deeply personal and heartfelt. Having a family member lead their proceedings added extra warmth and authenticity, making the moment even more meaningful. Before the vows, guests enjoyed popcorn and Mariachi music during the pre-ceremony cocktail hour, setting a playful and celebratory mood. The mix of live music and nostalgic treats had everyone smiling, perfectly embodying Eve and Gabe’s love for fun and shared experiences. One of the most unforgettable moments was Eve and Gabe riding Belmont Park’s main roller coaster with their wedding party before the ceremony, a thrilling experience that perfectly captured their fun-loving and adventurous spirit.
Capturing the Magic of a Unique Wedding
From getting ready through the parent dances and cake cutting, I had the honor of documenting every moment of Eve and Gabe’s big day. One of my favorite moments was capturing their joyous ride on Belmont Park’s roller coaster with their wedding party—pure, unfiltered excitement. Another highlight was their intimate First Look on the trolley, where their love and anticipation for the day ahead were beautifully evident. I helped them navigate last-minute timeline shifts and vendor hiccups, ensuring everything ran smoothly while keeping their stress to a minimum. The joy, laughter, and pure love that radiated from them was a dream to capture.
Eve & Gabe’s Whimsical Fall Wedding at a Unique Wedding Venue
Eve and Gabe, congratulations on your incredible wedding day! Your journey from a gap year friendship to a lifelong partnership was beautifully reflected in every detail of your celebration. Wishing you a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure! Your love story is a beautiful reminder that the best weddings are the ones that reflect the couple’s spirit—and yours was full of heart, joy, and adventure.
The Creative Partners:
Photography: PMC Photography
Getting Ready Venue: Hyatt Mission Bay Resort
Wedding Venue: Belmont Park
Planning & Coordination: Lifetime Wedding Memories
Florals: Tess Fresh Flowers
DJ/MC: SGM Events
Wedding Dress: Loved Twice Bridal
