When I first met with Ashley and Bryan, they expressed their desire to have a traditional Catholic ceremony. Ashley recently studied law at the University of San Diego, and she and Bryan fell in love with The Immaculata Church on USD’s campus.

Fortunately, they were able to secure a Saturday in January at The Immaculata where the ceremony would be held.

Following their beautiful Catholic ceremony, the couple rolled away in a vintage 1951 Rolls Royce Wraith from Elite Image as they sipped celebratory champagne. The next stop was their chosen reception venue – the El Cortez!

During the cocktail hour, Ashley and Bryan did a traditional German Log Cutting.  This is supposed to be the new husband and wife’s first time to overcome an obstacle together as newlyweds.  They sawed through a log together, which was very entertaining for the guests, who were enthusiastically cheering them on. Ashley and Bryan were a great team, cutting through the log impressively quickly!

For the reception itself, the couple had reserved El Cortez, an elegant and quintessential San Diego venue that sits atop Cortez Hill in north-east downtown.

The reception was held in the Don Room, which is one of California’s most exquisitely designed rooms, and can host up to 375 guests.  The gold ceiling and high gloss wood dance floor set an ambiance of sophistication and romance for the reception.

The room was enhanced by the beautiful decor and floral arrangements by Blush Botanicals, the specialty linens from La Tavola and the mood lighting by Tim Altbaum Productions. All of these details set the tone for a spectacular evening.

Ashley and Bryan’s three-tiered buttercream cake was created by Sweet Cheaks Baking Co. The cake was dressed with elegant purple satin ribbon edging, designed to match the colors of the wedding. The circular cake design even mirrored the shape of the Don Room!

Coordinator: Bliss Events
Photography: True Photography
Church/Temple: The Immaculata
Venue: El Cortez
Makeup: Audra Rene Studio
Hair Stylist: Audra Rene Studio
Florist: Blush Botanicals
Caterer: Coast Catering
Transportation: Elite Image
Linens and Rental: La Tavola
Bakery: Sweet Cheeks Baking
Videographer: Taylor Films
Photo Booth: The Foto Box
Tuxedo: A Better Deal Tuxedo
Musician: The Vintage Strings
Wedding Dress: The White Flower Bridal Boutique
Lighting and Decor: Tim Altbaum Productions
Disc Jockey: Tim Altbaum Productions
Invitation: Wedding Paper Divas