Mariah and Zak’s wedding at The Ranch in Laguna Beach was a dream from start to finish. Nestled between the canyon and the coast, this stunning venue blends rustic charm with the relaxed elegance of Southern California — the perfect setting for such a heartfelt celebration.
From the moment we arrived, every detail felt intentional and full of personality. The Ranch’s lush green surroundings, coastal light, and timeless architecture gave us endless inspiration for photos. We loved capturing those quiet, intimate moments between Mariah and Zak among the trees, as well as the joy and energy that filled the open-air reception space as the sun dipped behind the hills.
The Ranch is truly one of Laguna Beach’s hidden gems — with its serene golf course views, charming cottages, and the sound of the ocean just minutes away, it offers such a unique blend of natural beauty and sophistication. It was the perfect backdrop for a couple as genuine and kind as Mariah and Zak.
Every moment with them felt effortless and full of love, from their sweet first look to their laughter-filled dance under the stars. Photographing their day was such an honor — a celebration that was equal parts joyful, elegant, and deeply meaningful.
Michaela & Alex | Photo
Aja was a dream to work with. She goes above and beyond with her services, from the engagement photos to planning timelines to wedding day shooting. For the engagement shoot, she provides a list of locations to select from; and our site perfectly captured the aesthetic we were hoping for. On the wedding day, she and her team were quick to step in for last-minute adjustments (making sure my skirt draped nicely, straightening my veil, etc.). She has such an eye for detail and goes above and beyond to capture the most beautiful photographs. We were worried that our timeline would run too tightly, but she made everything feel easy, stress-free, and FUN. She also makes the photos easily available for downloading and printing, and we’re so excited to compile them into a book. Aja and her team were one of the kindest, most professional, thoughtful vendors we worked with and cannot recommend her more highly!