Why We Love Partial Planning: Melissa & Michael’s Valentine DTLA Wedding

Makayla Allyse
Dec 22
2 min read

Wedding invitations with floral patterns, flowers in vases, a golden tray with a ring, and a red box on a wooden table. Text reads "Melissa & Michael".

Melissa and Michael’s wedding at Valentine DTLA in November was one of those days that reminds you what really matters. It was full of warmth, intention, and a whole lot of heart, even with Southern California rain making a rare appearance. As a Partial Planning client, we had spent months working closely together, and by wedding day, it truly felt like celebrating friends.

Rain always calls for flexibility, and this weekend required thoughtful, last-minute adjustments to ensure everything still felt seamless. Thanks to a collaborative vendor team and a couple who trusted the process, the day unfolded beautifully.

Getting Ready & First Look

Woman in elegant lace gown adjusts dress while seated in a colorful room with floral arrangements. Reflective mirror adds depth.

Melissa and Michael got ready at Hotel Figueroa, surrounded by their closest people. Hair and makeup were provided by Luong Lasting Team, setting a polished and timeless look for the day ahead.

They shared their first look at Valentine DTLA, a quiet moment together before the celebrations began. From there, family photos followed as everyone settled into the rhythm of the day.

Ceremony with Personal Touches

The ceremony took place and was full of personality and meaning, including a moment everyone loved: Melissa and Michael’s dogs, Buster and Mia, proudly strutting down the aisle.

Lotus Event Pros helped transform the space with a wooden ceremony stage and bistro lighting strung across the reception area, adding warmth and intimacy to the setting.

Wedding ceremony in a lush greenhouse. Bride and groom exchange vows, surrounded by guests. Vibrant rugs and floral arrangements adorn the aisle.

Florals by Once Upon a Florist LA brought the design to life with tropical greenery, coral tones, and bright pops of color that perfectly complemented Valentine DTLA’s architecture and vibe.

Cups of lemonade with colorful paper umbrellas sit on a wooden table, evoking a festive, tropical ambiance.

Cocktail Hour & Reception Flow

Guests transitioned into cocktail hour and Renauld Bar Creations crafted signature drinks that reflected the couple’s fun energy, including Mai Tais with umbrella garnishes and green tea shots.

Dinner was catered by Hungry Bear Catering, followed by a reception that balanced heartfelt moments with high-energy fun. Music by DJ Mikenificent kept the evening moving, while Magical Events by Yami captured memories throughout the night with their photo booth.

Bride and groom kiss over a Mahjong table with green tiles. They're under a neon "Shrimp & Crab" sign, with a joyful, celebratory vibe.

Late Night Fun & Cultural Details

As the night went on, guests enjoyed thoughtful late-night snacks that felt personal and intentional. Enor’s Sorbetes served Filipino taho as a nod to the couple's culture, alongside a separate instant ramen bar set up by our team.

Outside, a mahjong table became a favorite hangout spot and a great photo opportunity, another reflection of how Melissa and Michael created an experience that felt true to them.

A Team Effort Worth Remembering

Photography by Wanderlust Creatives and videography by Solful Studios captured the emotion, movement, and atmosphere of the day (rain included) in a way that felt real and unforced.

Melissa and Michael were truly a joy to work with. Every meeting felt more like catching up than planning, and it’s couples like this that make Partial Planning so rewarding. Being able to support couples over time, build trust, and then see everything come together is something we’ll never take for granted.