Weddings are always special, but when you get to photograph family and be surrounded by love, laughter, and lush greenery—it’s the kind of day that stays with you. Sarah and Nathan’s wedding at the beautiful Botanica in Oceanside (one of Trademark Venues’ hidden gems) was exactly that kind of day.

Botanica is a dream location for any couple wanting a private, tropical paradise. With natural spring-fed waterfalls, serene ponds, and a peaceful garden atmosphere, it’s basically Mother Nature showing off—and it was the perfect setting for Sarah and Nathan’s love story.

These two are simply adorable. Always smiling, always laughing. Whether they were holding hands under a canopy of trees or sharing quiet, silly moments in between portraits, you can tell they just get each other. And since Nathan happens to be our first cousin once removed (yes, we had to Google the family tree for that one), the day had even more personal meaning for us.

One of the sweetest highlights was their first look. Sarah looked breathtaking in her lace gown and Nathan looked sharp and classic in a black suit—though it’s hard to beat the way he lit up when he saw Sarah for the first time…well you’ll have to scroll down to see it for yourself. They also shared private vows before the ceremony—just the two of them tucked away from the crowd, saying the words that mattered most. It was heartfelt and so them.

The ceremony was intimate and surrounded by the soft sounds of nature, and once the “I dos” were sealed with a kiss, it was celebration mode from then on! The dance floor was packed all night, and the energy was unmatched. We swear the music never stopped and neither did the smiles. It was a night full of joyful chaos, twirls, and dance moves we’re still trying to recover from.

We feel so lucky to have been part of this day not only as photographers but as family. Sarah and Nathan, thank you for trusting us to capture your love story. We’re still smiling thinking about all the beautiful, funny, and heartfelt moments.

Check out some of our favorite photos from their amazing day below—we dare you not to grin the whole way through. 💛

— With love,
Your wedding photographers (and cousins!)

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