Olivia + Vincent // Highland Park
“Thank you so much for these magical photos. There are so many that we really love, and feel like you captured the true essence of the wedding. I felt like I was reliving it again looking through these. Just so special. We are really grateful for all of the care that you took with these, and thank you again for going above and beyond. I was not expecting to see the photos of my dad’s speech and those amazing exterior shots. Also Vinny’s grandma stole the show, I love those shots of her. Thank you, thank you, thank you!”
There’s a certain type of person who - when you walk into a beautiful park full of flowers and foliage - immediately gravitates to the concrete blocks in the corner (also known as the massive f’ing bridge running through the park). That person is Olivia. Also, Vinny. And I love my city people. truth be told, we chose to take portraits at Desiderio Neighborhood Park in Pasadena precisely because it runs right under the Colorado Street Bridge — an iconic Los Angeles landmark and, honestly, just a really cool piece of architecture. After a stroll under the bridge and watching the sun ghost us behind some clouds (who needs a sunset when Olivia lights up the park all on her own, amirite?!), a glass of bubbles was in order. We relocated to (the recently-defunct) Cote Est in Highland Park to meet up with family and friends for Olivia + Vinny’s intimate ceremony and reception.
The patio was dark, the drinks were flowing and the restaurant buzzed with excitement from the small group of friends and family who gathered to celebrate. One quick speech and a vow exchange later, there were hugs and clinks and I was asked to put my camera away and stick around for dinner. And, oh man, am I glad I agreed.
I feel a little bad saying this because Cote Est is no more (they shuttered this summer) but this was legitimately the best wedding dinner I’ve ever eaten in my life. It may have been one of my favorite dinners I’ve eaten in Los Angeles, period. Olivia + Vinny are true food and wine people, and they picked out a sensational menu. The team put their all into every bite and i’m honestly SO sad that the restaurant is no more. That said…it was a hell of a send-off.
