Katherine and Scott's wedding was on the last week of July, and we had perfect weather in Fremont. Katherine grew up attending St. Joseph's church, which is associated with Mission San Jose. It made perfect sense for their decision to get married at this historic church. I later found out her parents and her sister were married at this church as well!

We started the day with Katherine getting ready at her parent's beautiful home in Fremont and Scott at the Courtyard by Marriott in Newark. I love starting the day with getting-ready photos; it's a time to get close and intimate images of the bride and groom with their close friends. Also, an excellent time to get to know a little better of the bridesmaids, groomsmen, and immediate families members. It always becomes helpful when it comes to formal family portrait time. Big thanks to Katherine's sister Liz, she was the BOSS during family portraits, which helped so much for keeping us on schedule.

When I asked Katherine the reason, they chose Ardenwood Historic Farm as their reception venue. She said, "we love the rustic outdoor feel, that it's located in Katherine's hometown, and the cute farm animals are definitely a plus! We are also so excited that Ardenwood accommodates our large guest count so we can share the day with lots of friends and family!"

The choice of colors for the wedding is lilac purple. The design and color from the bridesmaid's dresses to the groom and groomsmen ties, the gorgeous florals and even the delicious desserts all coordinated so well. During the reception, we went around each table and made sure Katherine and Scott got photos with all their guests. Big thanks to ladies from Poppy Events helping me get through those photos quickly and smoothly.

One highlight from the day was the stunning backdrop made of 1,000 paper cranes by family and friends at the reception. The Crane symbolizes success and good fortune in Japanese culture, and when folded into origami, it is believed that your heart's desire will come true. Katherine's mother Mary mentioned the 1,000 cranes took months by many friends and family members, and each was made with love and blessing.

Katherine and Scott's first look was at the altar; the raw emotion of them seeing each other at the aisle had many friends and family in happy tears. We didn't have enough time before the ceremony to get bride and groom portraits, but it all worked out so well during the receptions for fantastic sunset photos. And of course, the beautiful Ardenwood historic farm made it easy for me to find spots for gorgeous images.

Here are two questions I always ask my couples from their personal wedding planning experiences. I hope it will help future brides and grooms:

What is your most valuable piece of advice you can share with future couples?

You have to make all the hard decisions upfront, but as you go, the planning process gets a lot more fun and less stressful!

What was your favorite part of the planning process?

Getting to connect with friends and family as we work together to create a special day.

Wonderful Vendors: Venue+Catering: Ardenwood Historic Farm | Planning: Poppy Events Co | Floral: The Bloom Bar Co. | Cake+Desserts: Sweet Condesa | Hair+Makeup: Wow Pretty | DJ: In the Mix Productions - Jude Wellington | Band: Magnolia Jazz Band Wedding Gown: BHLDN | Bridesmaid dress: Azazie | Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka Wedding Ring: Brilliant Earth Suits: Macy’s Bar III Transportation: Black Tie Transportation | Save the Date + Invite: Minted | Programs+Menus: Vista Print | Photography: Michelle Chang Photography