Photos by Lulan, Moses and Hezi

A Sweet Union: Jonathan & Jeffrey's Tropical Orchard Wedding at Calamigos Ranch

Photo Credit: Lulan Studio

In the picturesque hills of Malibu, Calamigos Ranch transformed into a tropical orchard paradise on June 2, 2022, as Jonathan Grahm and Jeffrey Postlethwaite celebrated their love with an intimate gathering of 80 cherished guests. Combining the rustic charm of a California orchard with the vibrant spirit of Hawaii, their wedding was a stunning blend of white and gold hues, lush florals, and delectable cuisine. As a wedding photographer, capturing Jonathan and Jeffrey's special day was a delightful experience, where every detail spoke volumes about their unique love story and impeccable taste.

The Perfect Venue: Calamigos Ranch

Located in the serene Malibu landscape, Calamigos Ranch is renowned for its versatile event spaces and breathtaking natural beauty. The venue offers a variety of picturesque settings, from sprawling gardens and rustic barns to elegant pavilions and intimate courtyards. For Jonathan and Jeffrey, Calamigos Ranch provided the ideal backdrop to bring their vision of a "California orchard meets tropical" wedding to life.

Architectural and Natural Highlights

• Orchard Grounds: The expansive orchard was adorned with blooming trees and lush greenery, creating a romantic and serene environment for both the ceremony and reception.

• Tropical Decor: Strategic placement of tropical plants and vibrant florals infused the venue with a Hawaiian vibe, perfectly complementing the white and gold color scheme.

• Elegant Pavilion: The main pavilion served as the focal point for the ceremony, offering stunning views of the Malibu hills and the setting sun.

Jonathan & Jeffrey: A Love Story

Jonathan Grahm, the talented L.A.-based chocolatier behind Compartés Chocolates, and Jeffrey Postlethwaite, an English-born actor and founder of California Gummy Bears, met on a dating app in 2016. Their connection was instant, sparking a relationship built on shared passions and mutual admiration. Their love story took a romantic turn in April 2018 when Jeffrey proposed to Jonathan in the idyllic paradise of Kauai, Hawaii—a moment that perfectly encapsulated their adventurous and heartfelt bond.

The Engagement in Hawaii

Their engagement in Kauai was a magical experience, surrounded by the island's natural beauty and the tranquility of the ocean. This picturesque setting set the tone for their wedding, inspiring the couple to incorporate a tropical theme with an orchard twist, reflecting both their love for California's scenic landscapes and the vibrant energy of Hawaii.

The Wedding Day: June 2, 2022

On a sunny June morning, Calamigos Ranch was transformed into a tropical orchard wonderland. With the help of day-of coordinator Jessica Rolph of 3 Little Birds Event Planning, Jonathan and Jeffrey meticulously planned every detail to ensure their vision came to life seamlessly.

Theme and Decor

• Color Palette: White and gold were the dominant colors, symbolizing purity and elegance, while adding a touch of glamour to the rustic setting.

• Floral Arrangements: Lush bouquets of tropical flowers intertwined with orchard blossoms created vibrant and fragrant displays that enhanced the venue’s natural beauty.

• Table Settings: Gold accents and elegant tableware complemented the white linens, while centerpieces featuring a mix of tropical and orchard-inspired flowers served as stunning focal points.

Culinary Delights

Jonathan and Jeffrey’s love for gourmet treats was evident in the carefully curated menu. Guests were treated to an array of delicious dishes that highlighted local ingredients and seasonal flavors, alongside exquisite chocolate creations from Compartés Chocolates. The dessert table was a testament to Jonathan’s craftsmanship, featuring an assortment of artisanal chocolates and California Gummy Bears’ sweet confections.

Highlights and Memorable Moments

The Ceremony

Under the canopy of blooming trees, Jonathan and Jeffrey exchanged their vows in an intimate ceremony surrounded by their closest family and friends. The gentle rustle of leaves and the warm Malibu breeze added to the romantic atmosphere, making the moment truly magical.

The Reception

The reception was held in the elegant pavilion, where guests enjoyed lively conversations, delectable food, and heartfelt toasts. The golden accents and tropical decor created a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for celebrating the couple’s union.

First Dance and Dancing the Night Away

Jonathan and Jeffrey’s first dance was a graceful moment that set the tone for the evening. Surrounded by twinkling lights and the joyful cheers of their guests, they danced the night away, celebrating their love amidst laughter and happiness.

Photography Opportunities Abound

Embracing Natural Light

Calamigos Ranch's stunning natural light was a photographer's dream. From the soft morning glow in the orchard to the golden hues of the sunset, every moment was perfectly lit for breathtaking photographs.

Creative Compositions

• Orchard Backdrop: The sprawling orchard provided endless opportunities for romantic and intimate portraits.

• Tropical Elements: The vibrant tropical decor and lush florals added depth and color to every shot.

• Candid Moments: Capturing genuine emotions and interactions between the couple and their guests highlighted the joy and love of the day.

Planning the Perfect Elopement

Personal Touches

Jonathan and Jeffrey chose to let the venue, flowers, and food speak for themselves, opting for a sophisticated yet understated approach that highlighted their personalities and shared interests.

Coordination and Execution

With Jessica Rolph’s expertise, the wedding day flowed seamlessly, allowing Jonathan and Jeffrey to focus on each other and their guests. The meticulous planning ensured that every detail was executed flawlessly, resulting in a day that was both stress-free and beautifully orchestrated.

Final Reflections

Jonathan Grahm and Jeffrey Postlethwaite’s wedding at Calamigos Ranch was a perfect blend of rustic charm and tropical elegance, creating an unforgettable celebration of their love. The venue’s natural beauty, combined with the couple’s thoughtful planning and the flawless coordination of 3 Little Birds Event Planning, resulted in a magical day filled with cherished memories. As a wedding photographer, witnessing and capturing their joy was an honor, and their wedding serves as a beautiful example of how love, creativity, and meticulous planning can come together to create a truly extraordinary event.

Vendors

Photo and Video: Lulan Wedding Photography

Event Planner: 3 Little Birds Event Planning

Venue: Calamigos Ranch

Hair: Joseph Michael

Makeup: Kristine Bernard

DJ: Vox DJs

Bakery: Hansen's - Fairfax

Florist: Puni Petals