Eloina and Andrew: the Buttes at Reflections wedding

Andrew and Eloina were married on November 24^th, with a ceremony and reception at the Buttes at Reflections.

A Fall Wedding at the Buttes at Reflections

I started out with the getting ready coverage at the venue ahead of the ceremony, where I was able to capture the very moment Andrew opened Eloina’s gift to him. It was a gold chain he’d been looking at for some time, and his reaction was perfect. I was also able to get pictures of the details of Eloina’s perfectly-suited dress and her bouquet, with gems and pearls throughout.

These two opted not to have a first look, and it absolutely worked for the two of them. When a bride and groom see each other for the first time at the altar, the moment is always so emotional. One of my favorite images of the day was of Eloina walking down the aisle with her parents. Her full focus was on Andrew as she walked toward him.

During the ceremony itself, Eloina and Andrew were sure to make sure their children felt included. They were a part of all the events. The whole family participated in the sand ceremony, which I thought was lovely. I also really appreciated that they gave a nod to their heritage with a mariachi band playing before the ceremony.

I always love getting photos of a couple right after they are pronounced man and wife and they walk down the aisle together, toward me. With this venue in particular, the guests, mountain, and gazebo could all be seen in the background for that shot, and with the sun perfectly lighting the scene, this ended up being my favorite moment of the whole day.

I can’t say enough nice things about this venue. The owner brought her horse so Andrew, Eloina and their family could take pictures with the horse—and so could their family. It was tough to get the animal not to eat the grass, but at one point, it did look up. I swear, it even smiled!

I also appreciated the fact that this venue has the kind of all-in-one capability that makes a wedding easy for a photographer. Like wineries, the sweeping vistas and potential for both indoor and outdoor photography is a dream come true here. It reminded me of the feeling you’d get at iconic Temecula vineyard wedding venues like the Carter Estate Winery or the Bridlewood Estate Winery.

Eloina & Andrew, thank you for letting me be part of your wedding day. I wish you both nothing but happiness with your family in your Forever After!