Adam & Gabriel’s LGBTQ+ Wedding at the San Diego Safari Park in Southern California
Love is wild – and sometimes, it’s literally surrounded by giraffes, rhinos, and gazelles…
I had the pleasure of capturing Adam and Gabriel’s wedding at the stunning Kijamii Overlook at the San Diego Zoo & Safari Park, and let me tell you, this was no ordinary wedding. This was a wild celebration of love between two people and amongst their chosen friends and family surrounded by exotic animals. What better way to enjoy Pride Month?!
I first met Adam and Gabriel at another wedding I shot for their friends, Peter and Mayra. Funnily enough, Adam was actually the one who introduced them once upon a time and was their officiant. Fast forward to this incredible day, and Adam found himself on the other side of the vows, ready to marry the love of his life, Gabriel.
From the moment they reached out to me, Adam and Gabriel were clear about one thing: they wanted their wedding to be a true reflection of their love and their people. They asked for a documentary-style approach to their wedding day, placing a huge emphasis on capturing the memories and all their guests in the most authentic way possible.
Let’s talk about the fashion. The guests brought their A-game with rainbow colors, sparkles, and everything in between. It was a vibrant, joyous sea of smiles and if there’s one thing I’ve learned from working with LGBTQ+ couples, it’s that the love and energy are simply unmatched.
The Kijamii Overlook is a venue like no other. Nestled within the San Diego Safari Park, it offers panoramic views of the savanna where wild animals of all kinds roam freely. Imagine exchanging vows with the wild beauty of nature as your backdrop – it was nothing short of breathtaking. The serene sounds of nature, the VERY warm California sun, and the occasional curious glance from a giraffe set the perfect stage for Adam and Gabriel’s vows, which were full of emotion, love, and the kind of sincerity that brings tears to your eyes (yes, I cried).
Their vows touched on the history of the LGBTQ+ community and interracial couples and of course, their immense love for each other. It was a powerful reminder of why I do what I do – to capture those raw, unfiltered moments of love. All kinds of love. Adam and Gabriel’s wedding was a perfect reminder that love knows no bounds – it’s wild, beautiful, and always worth celebrating.
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who understands the importance of capturing those real, unposed moments, especially at wild venues like the San Diego Safari Park, I’m your girl. Whether it’s an intimate gathering, a grand celebration, or something in between, I’m here to document your love story with the care and creativity it deserves. Inquire today!
Photography: Mallory Kessel Photography
Wedding planner: A Hundred Hearts
Venue: Wild Weddings at San Diego Zoo & Safari Park
Cake: Jenny Wenny
Florist: The Flower Bae
Entertainment: Sleeping Giant Music
Transportation: MIB Worldwide Chauffeured Services
