Mother's Day Weekend Surprise Proposal at La Jolla Cove | JR & Michelle's Engagement Story
When JR reached out in late April, he was planning a surprise proposal for Michelle during a Mother's Day weekend trip from Las Vegas to San Diego. The plan seemed simple: a walk through Scripps Park, a few casual photos, and a proposal overlooking La Jolla Cove. Like many surprise proposals, things didn't go exactly as planned. Holiday traffic, packed parking lots, and last-minute adjustments added a few unexpected twists to the day. But sometimes those moments become part of the story. With family nearby, ocean views stretching across the coastline, and the iconic backdrop of La Jolla Seal Rock, JR got down on one knee and asked Michelle to marry him, creating an unforgettable destination proposal in San Diego.
JR proposes to Michelle at La Jolla Seal Rock during a Mother's Day weekend trip from Las Vegas to San Diego. Captured as part of our Last Minute Yes proposal package, this oceanfront proposal featured stunning coastal views and family nearby to celebrate the moment.
One of the things we've learned after photographing hundreds of surprise proposals is that no proposal ever unfolds exactly the way you imagine it will.
And honestly?
That's usually what makes it memorable.
In late April, we received a message from JR asking if we were available to photograph his proposal to Michelle on May 9th in La Jolla.
We were already booked for a sunset proposal later that day, leaving only a morning or afternoon opening available.
After going back and forth on timing, we ultimately landed on a morning proposal.
Not only did it work better with JR's schedule, but anyone familiar with La Jolla Cove knows the lighting is often much more favorable in the morning. The crowds are lighter, the marine layer typically creates softer light, and the coastline has a calmness that's difficult to find later in the day.
Within the week, everything was booked and we began planning.
The proposal itself seemed simple enough.
JR and Michelle would be driving in from Las Vegas for Mother's Day weekend. JR had family in San Diego and told Michelle they were spending the day visiting relatives before exploring La Jolla Cove, Scripps Park, and the surrounding coastline.
The plan was straightforward.
They would casually walk through Scripps Park near La Jolla Cove.
We would "happen" to be nearby.
JR would ask us to take a photo of them on his phone.
We would then offer to take a few photos on our camera.
From there, we'd guide them into position and JR would propose.
Simple.
At least that's what we thought.
JR and Michelle traveled from Las Vegas to La Jolla expecting a relaxing Mother's Day weekend by the ocean. By the end of the trip, they were engaged. If you're planning a destination proposal in San Diego, we'll help coordinate the details before you arrive—from location scouting and proposal strategy to photography and local recommendations—so your trip becomes a memory you'll never forget.
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The Reality of Proposing at La Jolla Cove
If you've ever visited La Jolla on a holiday weekend, especially Mother's Day weekend, you already know what's coming next.
Traffic.
Parking.
More traffic.
And somehow even less parking.
What should have been a relatively easy arrival quickly became a race against the clock.
Traffic entering La Jolla was significantly heavier than anticipated, pushing our target proposal time from 9:30 AM to nearly 10:00 AM.
Once we finally parked, Stephanie and I practically sprinted through La Jolla Cove to get into position.
Thankfully, JR's sister was helping coordinate behind the scenes and kept us updated throughout the morning.
Michelle's daughters were also there, helping keep things relaxed while everyone waited for us to get set up.
When JR and Michelle finally arrived, we spotted them taking photos near Scripps Park overlooking the ocean.
This was our cue.
We approached and offered to take a photo for them.
Michelle smiled politely and declined.
"Thank you though."
For a split second, Stephanie and I looked at each other.
This wasn't exactly how the script was supposed to go.
Fortunately, JR stepped in immediately.
"Let's have them take a few photos."
Crisis averted.
Honestly, he saved the day.
The Proposal at La Jolla Seal Rock
Once we started taking photos, everything settled into place.
The nerves disappeared.
The timing felt right.
The ocean sparkled behind them.
The sea lions could be heard in the distance near La Jolla Cove.
Tourists walked the coastline completely unaware that one of the biggest moments of someone's life was about to happen.
After a few photos, we guided JR and Michelle into position overlooking the water near La Jolla Seal Rock.
Then it happened.
JR got down on one knee.
Michelle immediately realized what was happening.
And she said yes.
The cheers from family nearby made the moment even more special.
Months of planning, anticipation, excitement, and nerves all led to this one question.
And one answer.
Exploring Scripps Park & La Jolla Cove After the Proposal
After the proposal, we spent the next hour exploring some of our favorite locations around La Jolla Cove.
We photographed along the coastal pathways.
Stopped near the cliffs overlooking Seal Rock.
Captured candid moments throughout Scripps Park.
And made our way around some of the most iconic ocean views in Southern California.
What always amazes us is how quickly these sessions go by.
One moment you're introducing yourself to complete strangers.
The next you're celebrating one of the biggest milestones of their lives.
Before you know it, the hour is over.
Why We Love Proposals at La Jolla Cove
There are countless places to propose in Southern California, but La Jolla Cove continues to be one of our favorites.
Within just a short walk you have:
Scripps Park
La Jolla Seal Rock
La Jolla Cove
Coastal cliff overlooks
Oceanfront walking paths
Sea lion viewing areas
Sunset and morning light opportunities
For couples visiting from Las Vegas, Arizona, Texas, or elsewhere, it offers an incredible mix of accessibility and scenery without requiring a difficult hike.
Not Every Proposal Goes According to Plan
One of the biggest misconceptions people have when planning a proposal is that everything needs to be perfect.
The reality is that perfection rarely exists.
Traffic happens.
Parking disappears.
People show up late.
Weather changes.
Sometimes your girlfriend politely declines the photographer you're trying to use for your proposal.
But that's part of the story.
Those little unexpected moments become part of what makes your proposal uniquely yours.
Years from now, JR and Michelle probably won't remember the traffic.
They probably won't remember how difficult parking was.
But they'll remember how they felt.
They'll remember family being there.
They'll remember the ocean.
They'll remember the surprise.
And they'll remember the moment their next chapter began.
Because at the end of the day, a proposal isn't about perfect logistics.
It's about two people becoming one.
New beginnings.
New memories.
And a story worth telling for the rest of your lives.
Planning a Surprise Proposal at La Jolla Cove?
Whether you're planning months ahead or putting everything together at the last minute, we help couples create and capture unforgettable proposal experiences throughout La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Seal Rock, Scripps Park, Sunset Cliffs, Coronado, Del Mar, and throughout Southern California.
From location recommendations and cover stories to proposal photography, timelines, and day-of planning, we're here to help every step of the way.
Ready to start planning?
Let's create a proposal story that's uniquely yours.
Check Out These Other La Jolla Proposal Stories
If you're considering proposing in La Jolla, you may also enjoy these real proposal stories:
A Surprise Proposal at La Jolla Gliderport: When Last Minute Becomes Meant to Be
Four Days to Plan, One Perfect Yes | A Surprise Proposal at La Jolla Gliderport
A Last-Minute Pivot That Led to a Perfect Yes at the La Jolla Coastal Trail
Every proposal is different, but the ocean views, unforgettable moments, and incredible scenery are what keep bringing us back to La Jolla year after year.
Why Couples Trust Us for Last-Minute Proposals and Elopements in San Diego
Booking a photographer last-minute doesn’t mean settling. For couples planning surprise proposals and courthouse elopements in San Diego, it means choosing a team that thrives under pressure and delivers with precision. At Last Minute Photoshoot, we specialize in Sunset Cliffs surprise proposals, La Jolla engagements, and same-day courthouse weddings where timing, communication, and calm guidance matter most. Our clients book us days or even hours before their moment, and still receive the same elite planning support, discreet coordination, fast turnaround times, and cinematic storytelling. From scouting Sunset Cliffs for the perfect golden-hour angle to texting GPS pins at sunrise before a courthouse ceremony, we show up early, solve problems fast, and capture the emotion and magic exactly as it unfolds. Because last-minute doesn’t mean rushed. It means ready when it matters most.
When couples search for a reliable last-minute photographer in San Diego, they aren’t looking for a backup plan. They’re looking for someone who can deliver under pressure, solve problems fast, and make one of the most meaningful moments of their life feel effortless.
That’s exactly why so many couples choose Last Minute Photoshoot for San Diego courthouse elopements, Sunset Cliffs surprise proposals, La Jolla engagements, and same-day photography bookings.
We don’t just show up.
We plan, communicate, scout, calm nerves, hide in plain sight, and deliver cinematic reactions with fast turnaround times.
Whether you contact us two months out or one week before your wedding, our clients receive the same level of care, guidance, and breathtaking imagery. And it’s not just us saying it. Our clients do.
Because last-minute doesn’t mean rushed.
It means reliable, experienced, and ready when it matters most.
From spontaneous “we’re doing this today” elopements to last-minute beachfront proposals in San Diego, couples trust us for calm guidance, fast coordination, and photos that feel effortless — even when plans aren’t. If you're planning a last-minute moment or want a photographer built for real-life timing, we're ready when you are.
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Booked One Week Before the Wedding
From Colleen
“They exceeded every expectation… We booked just one week before my wedding day and they provided the whole experience, plus some!
They were in communication from 5:30AM, sending GPS location updates and even a photo so I wouldn’t stress…
We had sneak peeks fast, raw photos to choose from, and the finished edits in a week. They even delivered extra edits as a bonus.
Booking last minute, I wasn’t expecting much, but they made me feel like I booked them a year ahead.”
Her final thought says it all:
“Who could live up to Stephanie & Son?”
That’s our goal every time: treat last-minute clients like luxury clients.
Proposals That Feel Cinematic
From Hensen
“They helped me plan an amazing engagement… adjusted things throughout the day so the proposal would happen smoothly.
My fiancée says it looks like a cinematic movie.”
From Carlos
“Two months planning the perfect surprise. Top-notch. Super professional. Their insights on location and timing were a blessing.”
From Ian
“Smooth. Professional. They put my mind at ease. They went above and beyond.”
Proposals are emotional. Adrenaline is high. Timing matters.
We handle logistics so you just focus on the moment and the question.
Sunset Cliffs Picnic Proposal Magic
From Thomas
“The experience was truly magical and the photos were amazing!
They were proactive in planning and responsive to feedback.”
Sunset cliffs. Coastal wind. Crowds. Tides.
We’ve learned how to make everything feel calm, intentional, and beautiful.
Scouting Sunset Cliffs & Capturing Damon’s Surprise Proposal to Annie at Sunset
From Annie & Damon
“The nicest photographers ever! Helped scout, updated us on editing and printing. Hope to work with them again.”
Elopement at 8AM?
Golden hour proposal in La Jolla?
A day-of booking because love said “now”?
We’ve got you.
Our Last-Minute Promise
Booking last-minute never means compromise with us.
Instead, you get:
✓ Timeline planning
✓ GPS pins & real-time updates
✓ Early arrival & discreet positioning
✓ Calm direction & real smiles
✓ Same-day sneak peeks
✓ Fast turnarounds
✓ A high-end, heartfelt experience
Because when life changes fast and love asks for a moment…
we make sure it’s captured forever.
Planning a proposal or elopement in San Diego?
Whether you’re planning ahead or calling us today, your moment deserves intention, care, and beautiful storytelling.
📩 Book your session or ask a question
booking@lastminutephotoshoot.com
📍 Serving San Diego, La Jolla, Sunset Cliffs, Temecula, Orange County, Palm Springs and beyond
✨ Last-minute bookings welcome
Love doesn’t always wait.
And you shouldn’t have to wait for beautiful photography.
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How Much Does the Average Wedding Cost in San Diego?
Planning a wedding in San Diego comes with excitement — and big questions about cost. As photographers, we hear these concerns from our clients and see them asked constantly in wedding Facebook groups: How much does the average wedding cost in San Diego? Is $10,000 a good budget? Can you really plan a $5,000 wedding? What’s realistic for 100 guests? The truth is, San Diego weddings are among the most sought-after in California, which means prices run higher than the national average. From stunning waterfront venues to historic courthouses and winery celebrations, the numbers vary widely depending on your priorities. The average San Diego wedding ranges between $37,000–$50,000+, with luxury celebrations climbing into six figures. But with careful planning, smaller budgets — even $5,000–$10,000 — are possible if you keep things intimate. In this guide, we’ll break down realistic numbers, give examples, and answer the questions couples ask most so you can plan a wedding that reflects your vision without the stress.
As photographers in San Diego, we get asked the same questions again and again — not only by our clients, but also in wedding Facebook groups and blog threads that we follow. Couples want clarity, because the numbers they hear can feel all over the place. Questions like:
How much does the average wedding cost in San Diego?
Is $10,000 a good budget for a wedding?
Is a $5,000 wedding even possible?
What is a realistic budget for a 100-person wedding?
If you’ve been asking yourself the same, you’re not alone. Let’s break down the numbers, clear up the confusion, and answer each one directly.
Average Wedding Cost in San Diego
San Diego is one of the most desirable wedding destinations in California, and costs reflect that. On average, couples spend:
$37,000 to $50,000+ for a standard wedding in San Diego.
Luxury weddings can climb to $100,000 or more depending on the venue, catering, and guest count.
Biggest Expenses
Venue & Catering: Often 40–50% of the total budget. Expect $12,000–$20,000+ depending on location and headcount.
Photography & Videography: Professional coverage ranges from $3,000–$7,000.
Florals & Décor: $3,000–$10,000 depending on scale.
Other Essentials: Attire, rentals, entertainment, and planning support quickly add up.
Is $10,000 a Good Budget for a Wedding in San Diego?
Yes — but only if you scale your expectations. A $10,000 wedding in San Diego is considered budget-conscious, and usually works best for:
Courthouse or backyard weddings.
Micro weddings with under 30 guests.
Prioritizing photography, attire, and a small dinner instead of a full banquet.
Couples who make $10,000 work typically keep the guest list small, find affordable venues, or skip extras like large floral installs and luxury rentals.
Is a $5,000 Wedding Possible?
Absolutely — but it requires major flexibility. A $5,000 budget often looks like:
An intimate ceremony at a courthouse or park (permit fees only).
A dinner at a restaurant instead of a catered reception.
DIY décor and a smaller dress or suit budget.
Hiring a photographer for just a few hours.
If your goal is intimacy and simplicity, a $5,000 San Diego wedding can be beautiful. Think quality over quantity.
What Is a Realistic Budget for a 100-Person Wedding in San Diego?
A 100-person wedding in San Diego typically costs between $30,000–$45,000.
Here’s a sample breakdown:
Venue & Catering: $20,000+ (assuming $200+ per guest with food, drinks, and service fees).
Photography: $3,000–$5,000.
Florals/Décor: $5,000+.
Entertainment, Rentals, Miscellaneous: $5,000–$10,000.
Of course, your numbers can adjust depending on whether you choose an all-inclusive venue, stick to beer and wine instead of full bar, or cut back on extras like videography.
Tips for Saving on Your San Diego Wedding
Consider weekdays or off-season dates. Venues and vendors often offer discounts outside peak weekends.
Trim your guest list. Every person adds to food, drinks, rentals, and invites.
Bundle vendors. Some venues include catering, rentals, and coordination in one package.
Prioritize what matters most. If photography and memories are your priority, save on florals or bar service.
Recap
Average San Diego wedding: $37,000–$50,000+.
$10,000 budget: Possible for micro weddings or simple venues.
$5,000 wedding: Very possible, but requires scaling back to intimate settings.
100 guests: Expect $30,000–$45,000 realistically.
Wedding budgets aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some couples want an all-out luxury weekend, while others value intimacy and simplicity. What matters most is that your budget reflects your priorities as a couple — whether that’s photography, food, music, or simply creating space to be fully present with the people you love.
What Comes Next
If you’re in the early stages of planning, start by asking yourselves a few key questions:
How many people do we truly want to share this day with?
Which parts of the wedding matter most to us?
Are we willing to trade guest count or extras for a venue or photographer we love?
Answering these honestly will give you a clear starting point for your budget — and keep you from being swept up in expectations that don’t actually fit your story.
Start Your Journey With Us Here
What is the 30/5 Rule for Weddings? A Guide for California Couples
Planning a wedding in California can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to creating a realistic budget that balances your dreams with financial responsibility. That’s where the 30/5 rule for weddings comes in. This budgeting guideline suggests couples should aim to spend no more than 30% of their annual income on their wedding and avoid putting more than 5% of costs on credit cards or short-term debt. For California couples planning weddings in Orange County, San Diego, Temecula wine country, or Palm Springs, this rule provides a helpful framework to keep spending in check without sacrificing what truly matters. Venues and catering often take the largest share of a wedding budget, but photography should remain a top priority because it is the one investment that lasts beyond the wedding day. At Last Minute Photoshoot, we’ve worked with couples across Southern California who want to celebrate beautifully without overspending, and we’ve designed our wedding and elopement photography packages to align with budget-conscious couples who also value quality.
When planning a wedding in California, couples often stumble across different “wedding budget rules” like the 30/5 rule, 60/20/20 rule, or even the 30/5-minute rule. These terms sound official, but what do they actually mean—and how can they help couples stay on track with their wedding finances and planning? As photographers who have worked with couples from Orange County to Temecula, San Diego, and Palm Springs, we’ve seen firsthand how budgets shape decisions. Recently, we’ve had couples ask about the “30/5 rule,” and since there isn’t much online clarity, we decided to break it down. This blog explains the 30/5 rule, how it applies to California weddings, and why photography should always remain a priority in your budget.
One of the most meaningful parts of the day is signing your marriage license — the moment your love becomes official. As Southern California wedding photographers, we specialize in capturing these timeless milestones, whether you’re planning a civil courthouse ceremony in Orange County, an elopement in San Diego, or a winery wedding in Temecula. Your story deserves to be remembered with honesty, artistry, and care.
👉 Book your elopement and courthouse wedding photography package with us today and ensure every chapter of your love story is preserved.
The 30/5 Rule isn’t just about timelines—it’s about making your wedding day run smoothly and stress-free. From courthouse ceremonies to vineyard celebrations, our Elopements & Weddings Packages are designed with flexibility in mind, so you can enjoy your day without worrying about the clock.
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Section 1: What is the 30/5 Rule for Weddings?
The 30/5 rule is a budgeting guideline that suggests couples should aim to:
Spend no more than 30% of their annual income on their wedding, and
Avoid putting more than 5% of the wedding costs on a credit card (or short-term debt).
This helps couples avoid long-term financial stress while still creating a beautiful celebration. It’s not a hard-and-fast rule, but it gives a framework to think about how much is “realistic” for your wedding day.
Section 2: Why Does the 30/5 Rule Matter in California?
California weddings are notoriously expensive — especially in places like Orange County, San Diego, and wine country destinations. Venues alone can easily account for 40–50% of a couple’s budget. The 30/5 rule helps couples stay grounded: instead of overspending just because vendors say “that’s average,” you can prioritize what matters most.
Section 3: Where Does Photography Fit Into the 30/5 Rule?
When couples apply the 30/5 rule, photography usually lands in the 10–15% range of the overall budget.
For a $30,000 wedding, that means about $3,000–$4,500 set aside for professional photography.
For a $10,000 wedding, that means $1,000–$1,500.
But here’s the reality: while flowers wilt and food is eaten, your photos are what last forever. We’ve seen couples regret underspending in this category because it’s the one investment that carries their memories beyond the wedding day.
At Last Minute Photoshoot, our packages are designed with this in mind. We keep them flexible, with options for courthouse weddings, elopements, and full-day coverage, so your photos stay aligned with your budget goals without sacrificing quality.
Section 4: How to Apply the 30/5 Rule to Your Own Wedding
Start with your annual income → cap at 30%
Build a realistic breakdown → venue, food, attire, photography, entertainment
Use photography as an anchor → your day deserves to be remembered
Stick to 5% or less debt → focus on what you can comfortably afford, not what’s trending on Instagram
Recap
The 30/5 rule for weddings suggests spending no more than 30% of annual income on your wedding and limiting debt to 5% or less.
In California weddings, where costs are higher, this rule helps couples balance their budget realistically.
Venues and catering often take the biggest share, but photography should remain a core investment.
Photos are the one element that lasts beyond the wedding day, making them worth prioritizing.
Applying the 30/5 rule ensures couples stay financially comfortable while still creating meaningful memories.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding budget should reflect your priorities, not just averages you read online. If you’re planning a wedding in Orange County, San Diego, Temecula, or beyond, we’d love to help you make photography a centerpiece of your budget.
👉 Explore Our Elopement & Wedding Photography Packages
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How Much Does a Civil Ceremony Cost in San Diego? (Step-by-Step Guide + Local La Jolla Photographer Offer)
If you’re asking “How much does a civil ceremony cost in San Diego?” you’re already one step closer to saying “I do.” The process is simple, affordable, and perfect for couples who want a stress-free, intimate wedding experience. In this detailed guide, we break down the exact marriage license fees, civil ceremony costs, and the step-by-step process for getting married at the San Diego County Clerk’s Office. From booking your appointment online to knowing which courthouse location is best for your date, you’ll find everything you need — including official websites, phone numbers, and addresses — to make your day seamless. As local La Jolla photographers specializing in courthouse weddings and coastal portraits, we’ve captured countless civil ceremonies at the San Diego County Administration Center and nearby locations. This blog will help you plan your ceremony efficiently, while also ensuring those priceless moments are professionally documented. We even offer special pricing for La Jolla clients to make your courthouse wedding both beautiful and budget-friendly.
If you’re planning a civil marriage ceremony in San Diego, the good news is — it’s simple, affordable, and can be just as beautiful as a big wedding. Whether you want an intimate courthouse moment or a quick legal ceremony before a destination celebration, knowing exact costs and steps will save you time and stress.
Planning your civil marriage ceremony at the San Diego County Administration Center in downtown? This iconic location offers a timeless backdrop for your wedding day. We’re local to La Jolla and specialize in capturing courthouse weddings with beautiful, natural photography. Book your San Diego civil ceremony photographer today and let us preserve every moment of your 'I do.'
From understanding the costs to finding the perfect location, getting married can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. As local La Jolla photographers, we know how to capture your day beautifully while keeping it stress-free. Let’s make your ceremony one to remember.
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1. Marriage License Fees in San Diego
Before your ceremony, you’ll need a marriage license from the San Diego County Clerk’s Office.
Public Marriage License: $70
Confidential Marriage License: $89
📍 Main Office:
County Administration Center – 1600 Pacific Hwy, Suite 273, San Diego, CA 92101
📞 Phone: (619) 237-0502
🌐 Website: sdarcc.gov
Tip: Book your appointment online — walk-ins are rarely available.
2. Civil Ceremony Fees
If you want to have your civil ceremony performed at the County Clerk’s office:
Civil Ceremony Fee: $88
Additional Guests: The space is small; typically only a few guests are allowed.
Who Can Officiate: A county staff member will officiate your ceremony in English or Spanish.
3. Popular Courthouse Locations in San Diego
San Diego offers multiple courthouse locations for your ceremony.
Downtown San Diego – County Administration Center
📍 1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101Chula Vista Branch Office
📍 590 3rd Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910El Cajon Branch Office
📍 200 E Main St, El Cajon, CA 92020
4. Step-by-Step: Booking Your San Diego Civil Ceremony
Schedule an Appointment online through San Diego County Clerk’s website.
Bring Valid ID for both parties (driver’s license, passport, or government-issued photo ID).
Pay Your Fees — license + ceremony fee (cash, check, or card accepted).
Arrive Early — security screening is required at most locations.
Say “I Do” — the ceremony lasts about 5-10 minutes.
Receive Your Marriage Certificate — request certified copies for legal name changes or other official purposes.
5. Why You Still Need a Photographer
A courthouse wedding is short — but the moment is priceless. The architecture, the candid emotions, the first kiss as a married couple… these are moments you’ll want beautifully captured.
We’ve photographed civil ceremonies at the historic San Diego County Administration Building, the charming Chula Vista branch, and even paired courthouse vows with La Jolla beach portraits right after.
Special Offer for La Jolla Clients
We’re local to La Jolla and offering exclusive pricing for couples tying the knot in San Diego County. Whether it’s just the two of you at the courthouse or you want a post-ceremony photoshoot along the La Jolla coastline, we’ll make sure your day is documented beautifully.
📸 Book your Civil Ceremony Photography today — Limited dates available.
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