Wedding at El Dorado Park Golf Course in Long Beach, California
In my years photographing weddings, I’ve learned that love is in the way that we look at each other—the inside jokes, the affection, the easing of nerves, all shared in silent glances. This is what I look for in my work as a documentary wedding photographer, to capture those quiet moments and to understand the couple better. Throughout their wedding day, Matt and Sarah’s connection and mutual respect was clear in the way they looked to each other, spoke to each other, and considered each other.
On their first date, Matt brought bags of pastries from Porto’s Bakery and they talked for hours by the lake at El Dorado Park. And years later, they chose El Dorado Park as the venue for their wedding.
Getting Married at El Dorado Park Golf Course
Nestled in Long Beach, California, El Dorado Park Golf Course is picturesque, with lush greenery and a tranquil lake that create an enchanting backdrop that perfectly matched the lush, Lothlorien-inspired vision that Sarah and Matt had for their wedding day (also the inspiration for their engagement session at the Los Angeles Arboretum and Angeles Forest mountainside).
Testimonial from Sarah and Matt
“Pamela's photography was hands down one of the best parts of our wedding. Not only were the wedding photos amazing, but the whole experience was memorable. Wedding planning is usually stressful and hectic, but it was such a pleasure collaborating and working with Pamela. She put our minds at ease and it felt like we were hanging out with a good friend during the whole process. Our friends and family were also blown away by the quality of Pamela's work. We can't thank Pamela and her teammate Nico enough for capturing all the moments of our big day. We highly recommend Pamela's photography services whenever you want to capture a special moment in your life!” (Google Review)
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Pre-Wedding: Getting Ready Photos
The day began with hair and makeup, snacks, and warm conversation with best friends. Sarah chose a light and airy AirBNB for her morning with her attendants, and Matt got ready at the Ayres Hotel.
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Wedding Reception and Ceremony Details
Sarah and Matt’s very personal wedding decorations at El Dorado Golf Course were an ode to the ethereal elegance of Lothlorien in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, with sage green and blush details throughout the beautiful design by Exceptionally Yours planning, gorgeous florals by Haus + Co, and a delicious cake by Butter + Cream Bakery decorated with little corgi figures (in honor of the couple’s adorable corgi pup Murphy).
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Emotional Wedding Ceremony
Under perfect blue skies, Sarah and Matt officially tied the knot. In a beautiful, unique moment, the officiant guided the guests in group prayer for peace on Earth and for people in need everywhere.
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Family Group Photos and Cocktail Hour
While the wedding party and families of the bride and groom stayed at the ceremony space for formal group photos, the party in the beautiful outdoor reception tent commenced with cocktail hour filled with games for adults and kids and comfortable seating designs by Afaire Vintage Rentals.
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Lakeside Newlywed Portraits
While the wedding guests enjoyed cocktail hour, the bride and groom took their portraits by the beautiful lake at El Dorado Golf Course. There was a gorgeous willow tree next to the lake that we loved, as well.
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Reception
After cocktail hour, guests took their seats and welcomed the bride, groom, and wedding party. They had their first dance, cut the cake, and danced the night away. The reception was DJ’d and MC’d by the fantastic Mike Jayy of SoCal DJ Pros (who I highly recommend for a dance floor that stays lit all night!).
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All photos captured by Los Angeles wedding photographer Pamela Tatz Photography. If you liked this wedding, you may also be interested in seeing this MountainGate Country Club wedding in Los Angeles and this intimate wedding at a private Temecula vineyard.
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Vendors for Sarah & Matt’s El Dorado Park Golf Course wedding
Photography: Pamela Tatz Photography
Venue: El Dorado Park Golf Course and Event Center
Coordination: Exceptionally Yours
Florist: Haus + Co.
Cake artist: Butter + Cream Bakery
Rentals: Afaire Vintage Rentals
DJ/MC: Mike Jayy of SoCal DJ Pros
Hair and Makeup Artist: Heather Pepe
Favors: Porto’s Bakery
El Dorado Golf Course Information
El Dorado Park Golf Course Wedding Venue Address: 2400 N. Studebaker Rd., Long Beach, CA 90815
Parking at El Dorado Park Golf Course Wedding Venue: Parking is free and plentiful in the venue’s parking lot.
El Dorado Park Golf Course Wedding Venue Reviews: Here is a link to reviews for the venue on The Knot.
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HI THERE, I’M PAMELA!
I’m the owner and lead photographer at Pamela Tatz Photography. I know that the choice of the best wedding photographer is a deeply personal one, and I’m grateful you found your way here.
My rates for wedding photography and photo sessions are all available, as well as some answers to frequently asked questions. You can learn more about me and my business, as well as check out some resources I’ve put together to help anyone planning their California wedding, destination wedding, elopement, or engagement.
If you’re interested in working with me or just want to say hi, feel free to reach out! ♥