Los Angeles Theatre DTLA | Shelise & Jonathan
Photos by Lulan, Richard, Sarah and Stan
Grand Romance: Weddings at the Los Angeles Theatre
Photo Credit: Lulan Studio
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Theatre stands as a magnificent testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor. With its opulent interiors, grand façade, and timeless elegance, this historic venue offers couples a truly unforgettable setting for their wedding day. As a wedding photographer, capturing the love stories that unfold within the Los Angeles Theatre is a remarkable experience, where every detail exudes sophistication and romance.
The Historic Grandeur of Los Angeles Theatre
Completed in 1931, the Los Angeles Theatre was originally envisioned as a grand movie palace, a place where art and entertainment converged in a lavish setting. Designed by architect John C. Austin, the theatre boasts a stunning blend of Art Deco and Spanish Colonial Revival styles, featuring intricate murals, ornate plasterwork, and breathtaking stained-glass windows. Today, it has been beautifully restored to preserve its historic charm while offering modern amenities for unforgettable weddings.
Architectural Highlights
Grand Façade: The theatre’s exterior is adorned with elegant stonework, large arched windows, and intricate detailing that make a striking impression from the moment guests arrive.
Opulent Lobby: Step inside to be greeted by a soaring ceiling, sparkling chandeliers, and exquisite decorative elements that set the tone for a luxurious celebration.
Majestic Auditorium: The centerpiece of the venue, the auditorium features plush seating, a grand stage, and elaborate murals that provide a dramatic and romantic backdrop for ceremonies and receptions.
Stained-Glass Windows: These colorful, intricate windows cast a kaleidoscope of light throughout the space, adding a magical touch to every moment captured.
Photographic Opportunities Abound
Embracing Timeless Elegance
The Los Angeles Theatre offers a plethora of stunning settings that enhance the beauty of every photograph, from the grand architectural details to the intimate corners perfect for romantic portraits.
Ornate Details: Focus on the intricate plasterwork, decorative moldings, and stunning murals that add depth and character to your images.
Chandelier Glamour: The glittering chandeliers provide a beautiful focal point and add a touch of glamour to indoor shots.
Stage Magic: Utilize the grand stage for dramatic and unique portraits, capturing the couple’s elegance against a backdrop of timeless artistry.
Reflective Surfaces: Mirrors and polished floors create opportunities for creative reflections and symmetrical compositions, adding an artistic flair to your wedding album.
Breathtaking Lighting
The theatre’s design maximizes natural and ambient light, offering diverse lighting conditions that enhance the mood and aesthetic of your wedding photos.
Natural Light: Large arched windows flood the space with soft, natural light during daytime ceremonies, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Ambient Lighting: Elegant sconces and chandeliers provide a romantic glow in the evening, perfect for capturing intimate and atmospheric shots.
Golden Hour Glow: Schedule outdoor or semi-outdoor shots near the theatre’s entrance during sunset to take advantage of the golden hour’s flattering light.
Capturing the Magic of Your Special Day
Detailed Moments
Every wedding is unique, and the Los Angeles Theatre provides the perfect canvas to highlight the intricate details that make your day special.
Bridal Preparations: Capture the bride’s preparations in the elegant lobby, showcasing her gown against the backdrop of stunning architectural details.
Groom’s Moments: Document the groom’s final touches and the excitement leading up to the ceremony, set against the theatre’s grand interiors.
Decor and Accents: Highlight the floral arrangements, table settings, and personalized decor that reflect the couple’s style and love story.
Emotional Connections
The Los Angeles Theatre is not just a venue; it’s a place where emotions run deep and connections are beautifully captured.
Vow Exchange: Document the heartfelt exchange of vows in the majestic auditorium, capturing the love and commitment shared between the couple.
First Look: The private moments of the first look, set against the backdrop of the theatre’s exquisite surroundings, create powerful and intimate images.
Celebratory Moments: From toasts and speeches to dancing and laughter, every joyous moment is beautifully framed within the theatre’s luxurious spaces.
Tips for Couples Planning a Wedding at Los Angeles Theatre
Personalize Your Experience
Thematic Decor: Whether you envision a classic, modern, or themed wedding, the theatre’s versatile spaces can be tailored to fit your desired aesthetic. Incorporate personal touches that reflect your personalities and love story.
Cultural Traditions: The spacious and adaptable event areas accommodate various cultural ceremonies and rituals, allowing you to honor your heritage and traditions.
Plan for Comfort
Weather Considerations: While much of the celebration will take place indoors, consider any outdoor elements near the theatre’s entrance and have contingency plans for inclement weather.
Guest Amenities: Ensure that your guests are comfortable with ample seating, climate control, and convenient access to amenities within the venue.
Vendor Coordination
Preferred Vendors: Collaborate with the theatre’s preferred vendors who are familiar with the venue’s layout and can help bring your vision to life seamlessly.
Photography Timeline: Work closely with your photographer to create a timeline that allows ample time for capturing all desired moments without feeling rushed, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
A Memorable Celebration
I had the honor of photographing Shelise & Jonathan’s wedding at the Los Angeles Theatre last fall. Their ceremony took place in the grand auditorium, where they exchanged vows under a beautifully decorated arch, surrounded by the theatre’s opulent interiors. The reception was a vision of elegance, featuring exquisite floral arrangements, twinkling lights, and lively dancing that filled the night with joy and laughter. From the emotional first look to the stunning sunset portraits near the theatre’s entrance, every moment of Lily and Ethan’s wedding was captured with artistry and care, resulting in a wedding album that beautifully tells their unique love story.
Highlights of the Day
Ceremony in the Auditorium: Their heartfelt vows were exchanged in the majestic auditorium, framed by the theatre’s stunning architectural details and vibrant stained-glass windows.
Evening Revelry: The reception in the Grand Ballroom was filled with joyous toasts, elegant decor, and lively dancing, creating unforgettable memories for the couple and their guests.
Final Thoughts
The Los Angeles Theatre offers a wedding experience that is both grand and intimate, blending historic elegance with modern sophistication. Its stunning architectural features, versatile event spaces, and luxurious ambiance make it an ideal setting for couples seeking a memorable and elegant celebration of their love. As a photographer, capturing weddings at the Los Angeles Theatre is a true pleasure, as the venue provides endless opportunities to create beautiful, timeless images that reflect the unique love stories of each couple.
Vendors
Photography by Lulan Studio
Event Planner: XOXO Weddings
Venue: Los Angeles Theatre
Video: Amora Cinema
DJ: Red Shoe LA
Band: Amanda Inez Castro
Caterer: Olive Wood Pizza
Beverages: Liquid Catering
Rentals: Orchid Party Rentals
Lighting: Stage Labs
Dress: Galia Lava