Imagine my excitement when my bride and groom told me that their wedding would be at the Long Beach Aquarium. I have been there a few times, and I love aquaria, but my couple's love for what lies under the sea was unparalleled. They are avid scuba divers and wanted to share their love for the ocean with their family and friends.
I am sure that there are many of you out there that are looking for unique wedding venues, and The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach definitely fits the bill. They are used to hosting special events, ranging from corporate events to weddings. And as a photographer, I could not ask for a more picturesque location.
The aquarium is situated right next to the Long Beach Rainbow harbor. There is a spectacular ocean side walkway that is lined by those iconic Southern California palm trees. Every once in a while, you get to see some beautiful yachts, but there are always a lot of boats in the harbor on any given day.
My bride and groom were married in front of the Honda Blue Cavern aquarium. This spectacular 142,000 gallon, 3 story tall aquarium is probably one of the most beautiful places I have photographed a wedding. It definitely will be something your guests will talk about for years.
Bride and Groom with a Sting Ray at the Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach
Bridal Party Portrait Session at the Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach
The Aquarium allows you to take photos around their exhibits, so you are definitely going to get some amazing photos here. Between the large exhibits and the smaller aquariums that house jellyfish and other exotic aquaria, there are tons of places to have a private moment, or just hang with your guests.
Dine under the magnificent Blue Whale and her calf
Relaxing atmosphere in the Great Hall
The dining area is in the Great Hall, where you can dance the night away under Edie and Edison, the magnificent 88 foot fiberglass blue whale and her calf, suspended from the ceiling. The staff at the aquarium are excellent hosts, and you are made to feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. If you decide you are going to have a cocktail hour, you have the opportunity to add the terrace and even the shark lagoon to your wedding package. How cool is that! Sharks!
All in all, this is truly a unique place for to have a wedding. And I found myself humming the song "Under the Sea" more than once that night. I leave you here with a few more pictures from the night. For more information about weddings at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, please click here.
