Rachel & Alex’s San Diego Botanic Garden Wedding Filled with Color & Culture

October 22, 2025

Published on

we're the Sherrs

Hello! We're Hayes and Bree - married couple and lead photographer and videographer serving San Diego and Orange County.

Learn more

Search

FREE DOWNLOAD

The sw wedding guide

Made for newly engaged couples to help you navigate the planning process!

DOWNLOAD

Rachel & Alex’s colorful summer wedding at the San Diego Botanical Garden in Encinitas, California photographed & filmed by Sherr Weddings.

Rachel and Alex’s wedding day at the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas felt like stepping straight into a dream. Filled with laughter, lush greenery, and the kind of emotion that makes every guest reach for a tissue, this day was an honor to capture!

Rachel & Alex’s Love Story in Full Bloom

The day began with Rachel and her bridesmaids tucked away in a downtown hotel suite, sunlight streaming through the huge windows. The bridesmaids, all in matching silk pajamas, enjoyed an easy morning, chatting over breakfast. Rachel glowed in her white set — calm, joyful, and ready for the day ahead. After slipping into her gown with help from her mom, Rachel’s bridesmaids gathered for a big reveal. The moment they walked in and saw her all ready, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. She finished off her bridal look with jewelry and a spritz of perfume before heading to the venue.

Meanwhile, Alex and his groomsmen enjoyed a relaxed morning at a nearby hotel. His best man helped him into his jacket and then he and his groomsmen raised glasses in a celebratory toast. The atmosphere was light and full of anticipation as they made their way to the gardens to meet his soon-to-be wife.

A Lush San Diego Botanical Garden Wedding Ceremony

When Rachel and Alex shared their private first look among the greenery, time seemed to stand still. Alex’s eyes immediately filled with tears, completely in awe of his bride. Rachel smiled through her own happy tears, taking in how heartfelt and sincere his reaction was. It was a reflection of the tender love they share.

Before guests arrived, we captured wedding party and family portraits. The ceremony space inside the greenhouse at San Diego Botanical Garden was filled with life. Hanging plants draped from above, a setting that reminded us of Alex’s New Orleans roots. A live violinist played softly as guests took their seats. Under a beautiful chuppah, Rachel and Alex exchanged personal vows, signed their Ketubah, and ended the ceremony with the traditional glass breaking. Many joyful moments met with cheers from everyone present.

A Reception to Remember

As the sun began to set, the newlyweds made their grand entrance to the reception. Their bridal party cheered them on as they danced into the candlelit space. Long tables were adorned with colorful florals, patterned table runners, and a warm glow that made the entire room feel intimate and inviting. Guests enjoyed a plated dinner filled with laughter and conversation before heartfelt toasts kicked off the evening’s celebrations.

Their first dance to Brad Paisley’s “Then” had everyone smiling, followed by a sweet father-daughter dance and a high-energy hora. Later, they cut their cake and surprised guests with a nod to Alex’s hometown — a lively New Orleans-style dance, complete with feathered umbrellas and every guest twirling around the room in celebration.

To the Cereones:

Rachel and Alex, your wedding day was filled with meaning, emotion, and joy — a perfect blend of classic elegance and cultural tradition. From the lush venue you chose to the small moments you made time for throughout your day, you two are so intentional. Your love is easy, sweet, and thoughtful, and it’s what makes you such a great team. We’re sending all our congratulations to you both and are so honored we’ve gotten to be a part of this chapter of your love story!