Great Officiant Greg had the honor and pleasure of marrying John and Samantha Torres on Saturday August 6th 2016 at the Los Angeles County Arboretum in Arcadia, California. The Arboretum and Botanic Gardens covering 127 acres, is an arboretum, botanical garden, and historical site nestled into hills near the San Gabriel Mountains. It is a wonderful venue for a wedding!
Samantha was absolutely stunning in her custom wedding dress, and John was handsome and sharp in his gray tuxedo. Everyone was “dressed to the nines”, and looked great!
The Rose Garden was the actual site of the ceremony, and everyone had to take a Disneyland-style tram to that spot! (The groom, groomsmen, bride and bridesmaids were in separate air-conditioned limos, however). The setting was just beautiful, but quite hot! The happy couple selected “My Favorite Ceremony”, customized by Great Officiant Greg. It was fun and romantic, with just a touch of humor to keep it light. John and Samantha were very happy and pleased with the ceremony, as were their friends and family!
The reception was held adjacent the Peacock Lounge at the Arboretum. Aptly named, as there are thousands of peacocks at the arboretum! Luckily, none decided to attend the ceremony! They are beautiful, but very loud!
Dozens of movies and televisions programs have had scenes filmed at the arboretum beginning in 1936, including portions of two Jurassic Park movies and Objective, Burma!
Some of the Tarzan adventure movies were partially shot here. It was also the scenes for Paradise Island in The New Original Wonder Woman.
The Queen Anne Cottage used in the opening credits of the TV show Fantasy Island is located here. The cottage was also seen in an episode of Murder, She Wrote and Roots: The Next Generations.
In 2013, Katy Perry filmed her music video for “Roar” at the arboretum.
Many thanks to the staff at the LA Arboretum, especially the tram drivers and DJ Corey!
All of us at Great Officiants wish John and Samantha much love and happiness in their future together.
