Lavender and Pink Wedding at The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Getting Ready

Marika recalls of when they met, “It was November 2008 at San Diego State. I was a junior and James was a sophomore. Yes, I am 10 months older than him :D I was in a sorority and he was in a fraternity. James and his twin brother were coaches for my sorority’s kickball tournament. I thought he was cute and the rest is history. His twin brother did try to trick me at first and say he was James.”

First Look and Portraits

Marika might have waited ten years for a proposal, but the way James pulled it off was nothing short of magical. Marika says, “During the summer of 2018 we went to Italy and Croatia for two weeks. It was towards the beginning of our trip in Positano. We went to a fancy dinner at a Michelin star restaurant. While we were there they brought out a dessert with a candle at the end of dinner and I was really confused. Turns out James had told them it was our anniversary because it was the only way he could get a reservation. Later that night on the balcony at our hotel overlooking the beach he proposed. The next morning we got up at 6am to take photos on the beach when no one was there.”

Lodge at Torrey Pines Ceremony

For their wedding, Marika and James knew San Diego would be the location. Having met there, the city had a special meaning in their hearts. You could feel the excitement of the guests for this sweet couple. Everyone cheered so loudly during Marika and James’ first kiss, which was so cute.

Lodge at Torrey Pines Reception

Marika and James started off the evening with their first dance, followed by 4 toasts from friends and family. The toasts included various stories about the couple that were hilarious, heartfelt, and truly honoring of their personalities and history. I loved every minute of this day and am so thrilled to have worked with James and Marika this last year. Congratulations to the happy couple!