As a photographer, I have had the opportunity to capture many special events. I rarely get the chance to document a 50th wedding anniversary - the milestone of a lifetime for a married couple. When Marlene and Jun reached out to me, I felt honored that they trusted me with such an important task.
The couple planned everything incredibly well, from the wedding photography timeline to the beautiful Willow Heights Mansion Leal Vineyards wedding venue. The stunning Morgan Hill location offers everything you could want for a 50th wedding vow renewal - gorgeous European-inspired architecture, a private lawn, and incredible vineyard views.
The photos I captured of this early morning ceremony will be a lasting reminder of the special moments Marlene and Jun shared that day.
Marlene and Jun: Love, Laughter, and a Lifetime of Memories
When I finally met Marlene and Jun in person, their kindness and warmth made me feel so welcome. I could easily tell they were still head-over-heels in love, just like when they first married 50 years ago.
The couple met on the 8th of December, 1970, at the University of Santo Thomas Hospital Fair in the Philippines. After that, the world was colorized for them. Marlene and Jun say that it is their love and faith in God that has kept them together all these years.
They are a very grateful couple, and even through times of struggle, they have come out the other side with both each other and their faith. Marlene and Jun are perfect examples of resilience, faith, and love. So it was only fitting they held their 50th golden wedding celebration at somewhere as magnificent as Willow Heights Mansion.
Surrounded by their friends and family, some of whom had traveled from the Philippines, Marlene and Jun celebrated their love at a beautiful Leal Vineyards wedding ceremony.
A Celebration to Remember at Willow Heights Mansion
Nestled in the rolling hills, this Leal Vineyards wedding venue is the perfect backdrop for your wedding vows. It is a magical setting, full of classical elegance, thanks to the crystal chandeliers, extensive veranda, and marble details.
The ceremony was held on the manicured lawn centerpiece, with vows exchanged surrounded by wonderful views of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The professional Leal Vineyards wedding coordinators were on hand to ensure everything ran smoothly, and the couple's families enjoyed watching them reaffirm their commitment to each other.
Willow Heights Mansion offers year-round availability and a capacity for up to 300 guests. Whether you're looking for a small, intimate gathering or a full-on wedding extravaganza, Willow Heights Mansion can provide the perfect setting. Once the ceremony is complete, you can then opt for an outdoor dinner on the terrace or head inside to the luxe event space.
Photographing couples at such stunning locations only strengthens my love for wedding photography! For more beautiful wedding photos with breathtaking backdrops - check out these weddings at The Secret Gardens and The Ranch at Silver Creek.
Thank you so much to the Reynoso family for trusting me to capture such a momentous occasion. Your love and commitment are truly inspiring! Congratulations, Marlene and Jun - may you have many more years of love and laughter.
If you're a Bay Area couple looking for a photographer to capture your wedding - don't hesitate to get in touch. It would be my pleasure to document the memories of your special day!