St. Augustine Wedding Photographer | The Villa Blanca White Room
Sheena + Alex
On her wedding day, Sheena gleamed elegance and grace. Her beau, Alex, echoed in the same fashion in his own debonair presence. Yet, the most beautiful component to Sheena and Alex’s nature is how they radiate selfless love for others.
Sheena and Alex planned a destination wedding to celebrate their nuptials in St. Augustine, FL. Inside The Villa Blanca of the White Room, they were surrounded by their closest family and friends. So many traveled from within the States all the way from the Philippines to celebrate. From the first time I heard her voice over the phone, I knew right away how lovely a person she would be. She made feel at home. Meeting her family brought me closer in and I found myself getting lost in all the sentimental moments.
Sheena’s cathedral veil swept across the back of her Mimosa Wedding Gown giving way to the most gorgeous romantic portraits! They chose to have a first look before the ceremony so they could steal some time for each other. We traipsed through cobblestone alleys admiring the romantic architecture, it was the perfect backdrop. Today was a summer day in Florida, but with the coastal breeze and shade from the clouds, the weather was absolutely perfect.
Alex and Sheena chose to write their own vows. The room was captivated. We laughed, we cried, even the Officiant got lost in the emotion of their vows.
The reception boasted of delicious food including a traditional roasted pig for their Filipino American family and guests. It had been years since I’ve seen this at a wedding! In the old Filipino wedding tradition, it was custom for the groom and bride’s father to hunt a hog together. Ater their catch, they would prepare for the next day’s feast. Overnight, they would roast the hog over a fiery pit long enough for the skin to caramelize. Some say this ritual brought good luck to the bride and groom.
The party went on to the best dance party I’ve seen in a very, very long time! Every song had the guests up on their feet all night long. I don’t even recall one slow song being played because everyone was having such a great time breaking it down the dance floor.
This wedding night was one that I didn’t want to come to an end.
Sheena + Alex, thank you so much for choosing me. Not just for documenting your special day, but for your friendship.
Wishing you so much love and happiness.
And to their friends and family, to the wonderful staff at the White Room and the entire wedding team… it was such a pleasure to meet you! Thank you all for your warm welcomes and for making us feel at home.
St. Augustine Photographer: Lyn Larson MAHAL IMAGERY
