It turned out to be the most beautiful, summer wedding at Newport Beach House, celebrating the love of Coretta and Derick last Saturday. They both got ready with their bridal party at the Newport Beach Hotel & Suites, across the street from the venue. Coretta and her bridesmaids were having the time of their lives, playing music, making jokes, telling stories, while they all were getting their hair and make-up done. They looked so beautiful in their matching robes and Coretta, looked so stunning in hers. She was surprised with her bed being decorated perfectly with balloons, with some spelling “BRIDE” in big letters. As all of her bridesmaids were having fun, laughing on the bed, they got interrupted with a knock on the door. Derick’s best man delivered a card, with a handwritten note from Derick. Everyone left the room and Coretta read it alone, out loud, and you couldn’t help but tear up. It was the sweetest. Afterward, Coretta’s Matron of Honor brought Derick his card, where he had a special moment reading it, while his son was by his side.

Every detail was so beautiful, from their rings, florals, jewelry, perfume, shoes, etc. There wasn’t something they didn’t think about. Coretta had her bridesmaids leave the room as she put on her dress and final touches so that she could get their reaction when they see her for the first time. And of course, she absolutely was jaw-dropping!

It was time to head over to the venue and she was picked up by a vintage, classic car. It was so perfect. Derick was brought down to the empty ceremony space, where his back was turned so that he was ready for their ‘First Look.’ Their bridal party was up on the balcony, watching it as it unfolded. Derick was speechless and couldn’t get over how gorgeous she looked! Then they took some portraits together and with their bridal party in front of the vintage car, as it was parked overlooking the beach. Guests started to roll in for the ceremony, so the bridal party got tucked away inside.

The ceremony site was gorgeous, overlooking the ocean. The arbor was breathtaking and you couldn’t help but tear up when you saw Derick’s reaction when he watched his daughter throw her pedals and of course when he saw Coretta again. It was so special. Vows were shared and many prayers, and these two officially became ‘One!’ 

They headed inside the venue, had drinks, then we took some stunning portraits of them inside the reception space that was set up so beautifully! The bridal party headed onto the beach with them as well for some more portraits, then it was time for the reception to begin! 

Each of their mothers and both sides of the family did their own entrance. It was so beautiful, fun, and just life-giving to watch them incorporate pieces of their Ghanian culture to the day. Each couple paired in the bridal party had their individual entrances and they all danced their way in! And when it was time for Derick and Coretta to enter, all eyes were on them!!! They came in dancing together, and of course, their family and some friends came prepared with many dollar bills to spray them with money. The floor was completely covered with money, it was amazing! 

After they ate some dinner, the Best Man and Matron of Honor gave their speeches and well wishes to the couple. Then Coretta and Derick both danced with their mothers. It was so sweet. Coretta was surprised by a zoom video of her uncle, in England who was supposed to be there and walk her down the aisle. It was emotional and beautiful. The couple then cut their gorgeous, massive cake! 

They left the reception space to come back for their second entrance and outfit change! And of course, they had to change things up and this time they entered the doors, as fog spread out all across the floor. It was amazing! They were obviously joined by friends, family, and more money sprayed on them. After that, the night was spent being danced away! 

These two college sweethearts have been committed to one another for years, created a home and a beautiful family together. Their love gathered so many due to their true testament of commitment, deep friendship, and love they have for one another. It was such a beautiful, heartfelt day of celebration that no one could ever forget.

Gorgeous.

Love this.

Coretta, you are flawless.

So pretty.

 

Absolutely stunning.

This reaction is priceless.

Derick helping his son get ready was the sweetest.

Reading his special note from Coretta. I love the smile on his face!

They headed to the venue for their First Look.

This private moment together was priceless.

The most beautiful family!

Such a beautiful bridal party.

Coretta and her daughter are just so sweet.

Derick and his crew, looking sharp in the tan suites.

This bouquet by Botanica Wedding Floral was absolutely breathtaking.

Absolute perfection.

The ceremony was gorgeous. The sun came out just in time!

Mr. and Mrs. Ofori!

The sweetest daddy-daughter bond.

All of the natural light from the Newport Beach House, paired with the amazing decor and florals by Botanica Wedding Floral made the reception look amazing!

Nothing like the timeless look of black & whites that just capture all the emotion and cut out any distractions. So beautiful.

Their entrance was unforgettable! Then they went right into their First Dance together.

The speeches.

Followed by Coretta’s surprise zoom video with her uncle, who wasn’t able to make it.

 

It was really emotional since he was supposed to walk her down the aisle, but due to covid restrictions in Europe, he wasn’t able to make it.

Their epic cake was cut with their sweet daughter.

And of course, after dinner over, they ended the night with their second outfit change and fog for another grand entrance!

They got everyone on the dance floor at that point, with the continuation of money sprayed on them as they danced away.

It’s that, marrying your best friend kind of love.

Everyone had an amazing time! The rest of the night was history!

Coretta and Derick,

Thank you so much for letting me be a part of such an incredible day! Every detail was stunning and you two made sure every one of your guests felt so loved and welcomed. There are so many more unbelievable images that tell the story of the day. I cannot wait for you to see them all. You two looked absolutely stunning together! Just know that your love and family are so special. I could not happier that you two made it #oforicial!!!

Much joy,

Charity HOPE

Big thank you to the amazing vendor team:
Event Coordinator- @tspr_events
Venue & Catering- @longwoodvenues
Videography- @prettyweddingfilms
Photography- @charityhopephotography
Decor/Florist – @botanicawedding
DJ – @dj_exx
MC – @i_am_obaa
Photobooth- @zionsphotobooths
Cake – @semisweet401
Bride’s Wig – @jerrytolbert
Bride’s Hairstylist – @supremelyblessedwigs
Bride’s MUA – @elsiewhyte
Bridesmaids Hair – ella__nice
Bridesmaids MUA – @jacinta_beauty
Bride’s Gown- @alexandrasbridalboutique
Bridesmaids Dresses- @davidsbridal
Groom & Groomsmen Wear- @copadressed