With more than a touch of Hollywood glamour, this talented couple exchanged their vows at their Mr. C Beverly Hills wedding in a way that truly reflected them both.
You couldn’t write a better love story than that of Charlene May and Levi Hawkinson. From first meeting across the table from one another in the audition room, to a romantic proposal back dropped by fireworks. These two are real life Hollywood, and their Mr. C Beverly Hills wedding was just as red carpet worthy. With a theme of black, white, and pops of red. You could certainly feel echoes of classic cinema throughout their celebrations.
‘An Audition for Romance‘
When Charlene entered the audition room, and met Levi for the first time, sparks flew. Levi is a successful director and writer, who at the time was auditioning actresses to play a part in his latest project. Charlene was one of those actresses, and thankfully for Levi, she was ideal for the role!
Following the audition, the pair worked closely together on the project, and grew increasingly fond of each other. Upon the completion of the project, Charlene and Levi began dating. It was a whirlwind romance that culminated in them moving in together. After six years, Levi decided it was time to pop the question.
During a combined birthday and New Year’s Eve trip to San Francisco, Levi found he had the perfect proposal moment. The pair were watching the fireworks over the San Francisco Bay Bridge, and as the sky lit up with a wave of color, Levi got down on one knee. The wedding plans started there and then!
Mr. C Beverly Hills Hotel
Our bride chose a super chic, above the knee bridal gown originally designed for the runway by Lazaro. It fitted Charlene’s fun, energetic personality just perfectly. And paired wonderfully with the separate, diaphanous tulle skirt she popped on for the ceremony, and some portraits. Levi opted for a dapper black tuxedo, with contrasting red rose buttonhole, a major nod to their theme.
As a wedding photographer, I’m always so pleased when my couples decide to do a ‘first look’. As it allows them a moment of calm together, to really enjoy each other’s company – before all the madness begins! Plus, time-wise, it’s a great opportunity to capture portraits before the schedule gets too hectic, and while the marrying couple is looking their very best! Which Charlene and Levi certainly did, posing up a storm before their Mr. C Beverly Hills wedding.
The exchange of vows took place outside the hotel, within their elegant grounds. Guests sat in neat rows, facing towards a long, manicured hedge with a sandy colored brick wall in the middle. The backdrop for their ceremony. Which was a romantic, and fun affair, made fuller by their intimate group of friends and family. All so pleased for the happy couple.
Following the ceremony, I managed to snatch away the bride and groom for a few more wedding portraits in the library of the hotel. A sophisticated room that Charlene and Levi had fun exploring, while their guests found their seats at the reception. Soon the newlyweds joined their guests, and reveled in the sight before them.
The Reception
Wedding planner Erin Grace did an incredible job transforming the ballroom at the Mr. C Hotel in Beverly Hills, into a classic, Hollywood soirée. One that matched Charlene and Levi’s theme to the letter. From the stationery, to the cake, to the decor round the room. Everything fitted their color scheme, while also feeling fun and joyful.
Bride and groom celebrated with their loved ones well into the night, stopping only to take part in the customary wedding evening events, such as tossing the garter! A really lively moment that the guests certainly enjoyed. Charlene and Levi wanted plenty of portraits taken on the day, and so I took them outside for one last session during their reception. As the balcony at the hotel looked stunning at night, all lit up in bright blue, with the twinkling lights of the city all around. A fittingly romantic moment, for such a sweet couple.
Get in touch
If you’re planning a wedding in California, or anywhere in the world, it would be a pleasure to capture your celebrations. I’m based in Los Angeles, and the majority of my work as a wedding photographer and videographer is based here, and in Santa Barbara. However, I love to travel, and have shot weddings and engagements all over the world.
You are welcome to browse my portfolio of past real weddings, and if you like what you see, take a look at what’s included in my packages. For any questions, or queries about pricing, just get in touch.