Marcus and Demitrus got married at The Sanctuary by Wedgewood Weddings in Long Beach. The historic former church sits on East 5th Street, just minutes from downtown and the beach.
Their day was full of royal blue, sunshine yellow and plenty of dancing. Here are some of our favorite moments.
Royal Blue and Yellow
Marcus and Demitrus wore matching royal blue suits with yellow ties and pocket squares. Their wedding party carried the same colors, with yellow gowns and royal blue suits. Against the white walls of The Sanctuary, the colors really stood out.
Portraits by the Stained Glass
Before the ceremony, we took portraits around the historic building. The tall gothic windows, wooden doors and courtyard greenery made beautiful backdrops. One of our favorite shots frames one of the grooms through a stained glass window.
A Chapel Ceremony
The ceremony took place in the chapel, with blue and white florals at the altar and a pianist playing as guests arrived. Marcus and Demitrus exchanged vows in front of family and friends, and one of the grooms wiped away a tear. Afterward, they signed their marriage certificate and celebrated with a kiss.
The Reception
The reception was held in the hall, under wood beams and chandeliers. Tables were set in blue and white, and the cake matched with blue accents. Marcus and Demitrus made their entrance, cut the cake and listened to toasts from their loved ones. Then they shared their first dance, and the dance floor filled up for the rest of the night.
Planning a Wedding at The Sanctuary?
Here are a few tips from our time at The Sanctuary by Wedgewood Weddings:
Use the historic architecture for portraits. The gothic windows and wooden doors make timeless backdrops.
Choose bold colors. Bright tones pop against the venue's white walls.
Make time for the open-air courtyard. It's a nice spot for photos between the ceremony and the reception.
As a Los Angeles wedding photographer, I love photographing weddings in Long Beach and the South Bay. See our wedding photography and videography packages or contact us to check your wedding date.
See another Wedgewood Weddings venue: Edsel and Tina's wedding at the Carlsbad Windmill.