Some love stories don’t need a grand beginning, they’ve just always been there, quietly growing in the background until one day, they become everything. That’s Leah and Kolton. Their wedding at Quixote Farms in Pauma Valley was about two lives that had been woven together since day one, finally tying the knot in the most heartfelt way.

Go-with-the-flow and deeply present for their Quixote Farms wedding

Leah and Kolton were the definition of present. From their first look to golden hour portraits, you could feel how grounded they were in every moment. They didn’t rush. They didn’t perform. They just were — together. Whether they were sharing quiet words over dinner or slipping away for sunset photos, their connection was this steady, glowing thing. Emotional, warm, and completely real.

And as a wedding photographer? That kind of presence is everything. It lets the photos tell the truth.

Personal touches from start to finish

Everything about this day felt so them. Their ceremony songs were thoughtful and emotional, the kind that make you pause and really listen. The speeches were packed with stories and memories that showed how deeply they’re loved and known by their people. Leah’s dress change mid-reception was a total showstopper — a fun, unexpected moment that felt playful and so true to her spirit.

One of the sweetest parts was when they actually stayed at cocktail hour!  No disappearing for hours of photos, instead they wanted to be with their guests, hugging and laughing and soaking it all in. It set the tone for a night that felt intimate, connected, and totally unhurried.

A love that grew up with them

Their story is layered. Their families knew each other, they went to the same church, their older brothers were best friends. There’s even a photo of them as kids doing a service project together before they really even knew each other. Years later, they found themselves working side-by-side in the same family business, slowly building a friendship that turned into something more. And the rest… let’s just say, it made perfect sense.

Their day, their way

They got ready with their favorite people. They cried and laughed through a tender first look. They exchanged vows in front of the ones who’ve watched their story unfold from the very beginning. They shared pizza and cocktails and the kind of golden hour that feels like a soft exhale. And then they danced. Like, really danced! The kind where nobody wants to leave the floor.

Their Pauma Valley Wedding Vendor Team

Venue: Quixote Farms

Planner: The Perfect Pair Wedding

Videographer: Riley Ann Films

Catering: Il Piacere Pizza

Bar: For Real Bartenders

Cake: SusieCakes

Dress: Watters / By Watters

Florals: Petal and Peach Floral

DJ: DJ Matt Phipps

Rentals: Figueroa Party Rentals, Hostess Haven

Makeup: Diane Caranica

Transportation: Magic Shuttle

Ready to tell your story in a way that actually feels like you? If you’re dreaming up a day filled with intention, heart, and maybe a pizza truck or two, I’d love to hear about it. Let’s connect and see if your date’s available!