Zia + Zakee (Carondelet House Wedding in Los Angeles)

The gorgeously classic wedding of Zia and Zakee was all flowing fabric, jewel tones and laughter. When I first met this dynamic duo at a restaurant in our hometown of Long Beach, we talked for over 2 hours about life, wine (of course) and Zakee’s killer fitness routine. We also went over their plans for the approaching wedding, and when I found out they were still on the hunt for a wedding venue, I recommended Carondelet House in Los Angeles. As soon as they saw it, they fell in love.

And who could blame them! This travel loving couple of east coast transplants who have embraced the west coast life, love unique locations and striking spaces. Built in 1928, the Italian villa with an urban twist is filled with warm wood tones and rustic brick that, once filled with candles and draped white cloth, looks like a scene from a dream.

Between her sophisticated satin gown and his plum and black tux, Zia and Zakee were a picture of elegance on their wedding day. When they saw each other for the first time before the ceremony, the room glowed with the love in their eyes and echoed with their laughter. Zakee, who can make you laugh so hard your face hurts, had Zia giggling almost instantly. And it was impossible not to laugh along with them!

The scene as Zia walked down the candle-lined aisle was absolute magic, and the enchantment carried through the rest of the night from the “I do”s to the party on the dance floor. Tearful speeches were given and fraternity chants were cheered. And all the while the sparkles on the dresses of the bridesmaids and the mothers glittered under the light of the chandeliers.

It’s so rewarding when couples go from clients to friends, and that is absolutely what happened with Zia and Zakee to the point that Zia and I are pretty sure we must have been split at birth. I was so thrilled to celebrate their wedding day with them and capture these moments that they are going to treasure for a lifetime.