I got the chance to shoot for Michael and Sanya at their fun-filled wedding down in San Diego just a little while ago, and between the Serbian “selling” off the bride tradition and many jokes from friends and family, it was really easy to get pictures of people laughing and having a good time.  The couple was laid back and incredibly gracious with their guests, who got a chance after the intimate wedding by the cove to eat some great food at Baleen while the sun set and then dance the night away under the stars.

Michael and Sanya, I wish you guys the best, and thank you again for having me out to document your fun wedding!

While the ladies got ready for the wedding…

The  men met outside their room, protected by Sanya’s Serbian brother and his friend. Their job was simple: get Michael, and the guys representing him, to pay as high of a fee for their sister as possible.

…trade ensued, with tickets, gold (chocolate) coins, cash money, and many other things passing hands. Finally, after many laughs and a good amount of shenanigans, an agreement was struck and the two parties embraced.

Meanwhile, inside, the women peeked out trying to keep up with what was going on just outside their door.

…yet, when the time came for them to bring out Sanya, they brought out her maid of honor… and then her and her friend… and then the maid of honor, her friend, and her other friend! It was great!!

I just loved this tradition, because it really put everyone in a good mood. People were laughing and joking around, so we took a few quick shots before the bridal party made their way over to Baleen for the ceremony. But, not before the guys tried on some of the exchanged goods (the hats were AWESOME!)…

Once all the guests and party were at the ceremony, Sanya made her grand entrance escorted by Michael’s brother with the Serbian flags flying proudly on the windows. 

And then the ceremony flowed onward as smoothly as anyone could of wanted. I’ll stop the commentary, as I think the pictures tell the story from here.

Hope everyone’s doing well and leave a comment if you enjoyed the pictures. I’ll upload more from after the ceremony later this week after I’ve had a chance to whittle them down to be post-able.