Weddings are an expression of a couple’s personality, and this rockin’ duo created a truly unforgettable Altadena and Monrovia wedding. You’re going to love the sneak peek from this couple’s amazing day – including some awesome twists on wedding traditions!

The bride and groom shared an intimate first look at a trail head not far from the ceremony site. These two love to hike. You can’t tell from the picture, but the bride wore sneakers under that dress. It seems only appropriate that they would want to enjoy a little Pasadena sunshine for this special first moment together.

Vows were exchanged in the couple’s backyard in Altadena, with gorgeous paper lanterns and bubbles dancing over their heads. Being crafty doesn’t even begin to describe the talents of this bride and groom. These DIY-wedding-gurus built both the benches and the altar for their nuptials!

After “I do” comes the dancing! The newlyweds headed over to Arctek Studios in Monrovia to celebrate with friends and family. Arctek Studios is one of the most creative places you can get married … it’s a blank slate that a couple can transform into the reception of their dreams.

There were so many amazing traditions at this celebration. I can’t wait to share the whole event here on the blog. But let me give you a small taste of the awesomeness! One of my favorites twists on tradition was their cake cutting. The two exchanged samurai swords when they tied the knot, then those swords made a second appearance at the reception. They used the groom’s katana to “cut” the cake! Perhaps “impale” is a better word. There was even bright red strawberry filling inside the cake for a dramatic aftermath effect. It was phenomenal!

More fun images from this night are coming soon.

Congratulations to this fantastic couple!