Hummingbird Nest Ranch Wedding
Paul and Anwesha’s traditional Indian attire on their wedding day at Hummingbird Nest Rach
A Southern California Wedding: Hummingbird Nest Ranch
One of the most sought-after wedding venues in Southern California is none other than Hummingbird Nest Ranch in Simi Valley. With its grand European-style villas, manicured gardens, stone staircases, and sweeping views, the property feels transportive—like stepping into an old-world estate tucked into the California hills. This was the incredible venue for Paul and Anwesha’s wedding.
On the day of Paul and Anwesha’s wedding, an unusually heavy rainstorm rolled through Simi Valley—unlike anything the area had seen in many years. And yet, the weather only added to the magic. The rain deepened the tones of the gardens, saturating greens and stone textures, while the interiors felt warm, intimate, and wonderfully cozy. Despite the downpour, the beauty of the day was undeniable—and unforgettable.
Getting Ready: Chaos and Calm
Getting ready photos are some of my absolute favorites. There’s movement everywhere—people hustling, details being gathered, conversations overlapping—and I find myself fully enjoying the chaos. In the middle of it all, I’m intentional about finding the bride, still in her chair during hair and makeup, quietly taking in the moment.
I set my camera with purpose, capturing the motion and energy happening around her while she remains calm and centered. This approach is inspired by the renowned photographer Jose Villa, whose work evokes a strong sense of story and invites the viewer to pause and linger. In these moments, there is both busyness and stillness—chaos and calm—working together as the story begins to unfold.
Details That Tell a Story
I love photographing details as they quietly carry the meaning of the day. Indian weddings are especially rich in detail—from intricate embroidery and heirloom jewelry to symbolic elements chosen with intention and care.
I approach details creatively, often photographing them in ways that feel unexpected and true to the couple rather than staged or repetitive. These small pieces—textiles, colors, adornments—become anchors in the story, grounding the day in tradition while reflecting Paul and Wesha’s personal style.
Bridal Portraits: Light and Beauty
Next came the bridal portraits, and Anwesha couldn’t have been more stunning. Because of the rain, we stayed under cover and indoors, allowing the soft, cloudy light to pour in. That diffused light enhanced rich shadows and depth, making the creative process even more enjoyable.
Anwesha’s hair and makeup were done exquisitely, and while the weather limited access to some of the venue’s most popular outdoor locations, it quickly became clear that very little was needed to elevate her beauty. The adjustment felt small in the grand scheme of the day—because she carried the moment so effortlessly.
Paul’s Portrait Photos
Paul was strikingly dapper in his Sherwani, the traditional Indian groom’s attire. The attention to detail in his outfit was extraordinary—every element chosen with care. Calm, collected, and fully present, he waited for the first look with his soon-to-be bride. In just moments, he would see Wesha in her lehenga, the traditional bridal outfit. Everything was set.
The First Look: Five Years in the Making
Five years ago Paul asked Anwesha to marry him. And as a beautiful act of respect, Paul and Anwesha honored her parent’s request to wait to be married until they could attend as US citizens.
Wesha gracefully walked down the stairs toward the villa’s front entrance, where Paul waited. A gentle touch on his shoulder—then he turned around. The two of them were elegance personified. A calm settled over them as they embraced, finally able to enjoy the day they had waited so long for. Wesha nestled into Paul’s arms, a place she clearly knew well.
We moved seamlessly through a few nearby locations—all within a minute’s walk—pausing for quick mirror checks between portraits. The front entrance, the grand staircase, and a tiled back patio each offered their own beauty and intimacy.
Dad’s First Look
Dad’s first look was unforgettable. He was genuinely shocked by her beauty and openly delighted in his daughter. This was the first time Wesha had ever seen her father cry. She stepped away briefly to compose herself, then returned, twirling and showing her dress to her first love—her dad.
The embraces and kisses they shared were some of the most cherished moments of the day for me to witness. Their bond was unmistakable and deeply tender. From a short distance away, Wesha’s mom watched quietly before stepping in to place the maang tikka, the traditional headpiece, on her daughter—a moment filled with meaning and cultural significance.
Bridal Party
A total of 27 bridesmaids and groomsmen celebrated beside Paul and Wesha. Each friendship was evident, layered with history, laughter, and loyalty. It was clear these were the people that meant the world to them.
Celebration
Due to the weather and unexpected factors, the ceremony location was changed last minute to The Villa Grande Barn, a large, rustic-elegant indoor space often used as backups to accommodate very large crowds. I watched as the coordinator worked swiftly, navigating disappointment with grace and determination. In no time, a beautiful plan B came together—one capable of hosting nearly 300 guests.
The space was transformed. There was laughter, warmth, and an overwhelming sense of joy. Despite every curveball the day presented, the celebration was vibrant, meaningful, and full of life—everything an Indian wedding should be.
I greatly appreciated the effort the bride and groom made to explain the ceremony traditions and their meaning. Kanyadaan: a formal exchange of floral garlands between the bride and groom symbolized mutual acceptance and respect. Mangal Phrase: The bride and groom walk around the sacred fire multiple times. Each cycle represents a vow and commitments to love, duty, family and spiritual growth.
The ceremony and reception was everything you could have hoped for. Family and friends, tradition and honor, incredible food and plenty of laughter, dancing and reminiscing.
Being asked to photograph Paul and Anwesha’s Indian wedding in November at this iconic venue was truly one of the greatest privileges of my photography career. Hummingbird Nest Ranch is beloved not only for its beauty, but also for its star power, having hosted major productions like The Bachelor and numerous films over the years. It’s a venue designed for scale, drama, and unforgettable celebrations—making it a stunning backdrop for a vibrant Indian wedding.
Photographer @bethanyjoy_photography
Venue @hummingbirdnestevents
Planning: @oneroseweddings
Hair @bogatovastyle
Makeup @pollyevans
Catering: @rasoicateringco
Florist: @cityflowerla
Video: @orangebowtieproductions
Bar: @flowbarla
DJ: @voxdjs
Projector display: @michaeldjmicdavis
