Some weddings just buzz with energy from the very first moment. Andrew and Sydney’s celebration at Ciel Creative Space in Berkeley had that spark. The second we walked in, you could feel it — bright colors, bold style, and a guest list ready to party.
The space already has so much personality with its white walls and soaring greenery. Seeing Sydney walk in with sunlight pouring through the windows while everyone in their vibrant outfits turned toward her felt like something out of a dream. Their ceremony was simple, heartfelt, and full of laughter. This is where natural wedding photography shines: capturing those little glances, the joy in their smiles, and the way the whole room leaned in during their vows.
As Sydney put it, “We wanted our wedding to feel completely non-traditional, fun, funky, and true to us. Music and food are two of our biggest loves, so they were at the center of everything.”
From the neon sign to the green napkins tucked with playful menus, every detail felt intentional without ever feeling stiff. Their tables weren’t overly styled, just layered with color, texture, and personal touches that made them feel fun and approachable.
We’re obsessed with the florals. Sydney shared, “Our wedding planner connected us with a flower farm up in Sebastopol that had the most gorgeous seasonal blooms. My mom, my mother-in-law, and I spent the day arranging bud vases and centerpieces.”
What stood out most was how unapologetically Andrew and Sydney made the day their own. They didn’t worry about tradition or rules. They built a celebration around the things they love: music, food, color, and each other. And the result was a wedding that felt alive and so personal.
When couples tell us they want one big party, this is what they mean. Once Andrew and Sydney hit the dance floor, they never left, and their guests followed right behind them. Sneakers and short dresses made it easy to move, and the energy was off the charts. The DJ played like it was a festival set, not a wedding reception. Every song built on the last, and the dance floor never emptied. The records lining the walls gave the whole space this cool, retro vibe that felt like the perfect backdrop for their style. Documentary wedding photography is made for nights like this.
Sydney laughed when she told us later, “At first, I wasn’t sure why we needed a bigger music budget, but absolutely every guest still talks about the music and the dance party.” We couldn’t agree more. 🙂
This is exactly what being a wedding photographer is all about for us. It’s not just about capturing pretty details, it’s about stepping into a room that feels like an extension of the couple’s personality and letting the story unfold naturally. Andrew and Sydney’s gallery is the perfect reminder that the best weddings aren’t always the most traditional, they’re the most authentic.
Whether you’re planning a funky, colorful celebration like Andrew & Sydney’s at a creative Berkeley venue, or a joy-filled party anywhere in Northern California, we’d love to capture your day. With over 15 years of experience, we’re here to be more than just your photographers, we’re your storytellers, dedicated to documentary wedding photography, candid wedding photography, and natural wedding photography that feels effortless and entirely you. Check out more of our Northern California weddings to get inspired, and when you’re ready, reach out to check our availability!
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