Fairytale Wedding Archives -

11Dec

The Westgate Hotel

By True Photography, December 11, 2017 Venue Guide

Highlights of the Westgate Hotel

This luxury hotel is a tribute to the anteroom in the Palace of Versailles. The Grand Lobby is noted for its magnificent antiques, crystal chandeliers, and Persian carpets. The hotel is located right in the heart of San Diego, and has plenty to offer in terms of wedding photography, as you will see below.

Both the lobby and the mezzanine level of the hotel are ornately decorated, and joined by a fancy winding staircase. They are the perfect setting for fairytale-like wedding photos. There is an abundance of natural light coming through the elegantly draped windows, and plenty of classic furniture to use as props.

The lobby and the mezzanine level of the hotel are the perfect setting for fairytale-like wedding photos. Both floors are ornately decorated and joined by a fancy winding staircase. There is tons of natural light coming through the elegantly draped windows and plenty of classic furniture to use a props.

Outside the front entrance there is a beautifully lit open space with tropical plants and flowers. The exterior walls of the hotel also provide an interesting background for some photos.

Right next to the lobby and adjacent to the grand staircase is this beautiful hidden gem (below). It serves as a hospitality room for the hotel guests but also the ideal spot for few colorful portraits on your wedding day.

As you can imagine the ceremony and reception spaces in the hotel are equally elaborate.

The 3rd floor of the hotel also has a lot to offer, including nice views of downtown San Diego. There is a large open outdoor space with beautiful plants and fountains that can be ideal for an outdoor wedding.

Wedding at the Westgate Hotel in San Diego

It also great to venture out onto the streets surounding the Hotel. Just a stone throw away are many great urban photo opportunities like the trolley tracks and the spreckles theater to name a few. Also, kitty corner to the Westgate is is the newly invigorated Horton Plaza Park which also has some unforgettable photo locales!

The Sunday brunch at the Westgate is one of the most popular brunches in San Diego & many couples have time their weeding around the brunch!!

Westgate Hotel Wedding Photography

We photograph weddings at The Westgate Hotel frequently :) If you are considering a wedding at this venue, we are happy to talk over specific photography questions. We also suggest checking out more of our Westgate Hotel wedding photos.

22Jan

Venue Spotlight | Grand Tradition

By True Photography, January 22, 2016 Venues

For those seeking a destination-style wedding just outside of San Diego, one of our favorite spots is the all-inclusive Grand Tradition. We have photographed many weddings at Grand Tradition over the years, and have likely covered every corner :) Located in Fallbrook, CA, the property’s 30 acres of rolling green hills and tropical gardens has something for everyone, including two main venue options onsite. Here are examples of each:

Beverly Mansion

If your style is a bit more traditional and classical, our suggestion is the Beverly Mansion, a classic Victorian estate that overlooks the property’s idyllic heart-shaped lake. Ceremonies at the Beverly Mansion are held outdoors by the gazebo, where couples have the option of being brought out by horse and carriage. It definitely has a storybook feel!

After exchanging vows, guests can dance the night away under massive Swarovski crystal chandeliers. And to end the evening, nothing beats a fun and impressive sparkler grand exit, which is sure to leave your guests in awe :)

Arbor Terrace

For those seeking a more laid-back, paradise vibe to their day, we recommend the property’s Arbor Terrace and Pavilion. Inspired by the aesthetics of Hana, Hawaii, the Terrace is set against a gorgeous waterfall backdrop, and is adorned with paths covered in beautiful flowers. The Pavilion, where receptions are held, offers features such as the Hospitality Fountain, which is great for photos. There is also a cozy outdoor fireplace, which is a nice comfortable spot to enjoy a relaxing moment with guests.

Regardless of which location you choose, you are in for a wonderful wedding experience :) For more of our favorite weddings photographed at Grand Tradition, please visit this link.

08Aug

A Fairytale Wedding at Paradise Point with Alison Howard Events

By Alison Howard Events, August 08, 2012 Design

My favorite aspect about working in the wedding industry is getting to know my couples. I love hearing their stories and ideas, and working together to craft a vision for the wedding day. There is nothing more rewarding!

Recently, Anggia and Andi brought me onboard to help them plan their wedding. Although they had booked their ceremony and reception venues, they were unsure about which vendors to use. Also, they had questions about the style and theme of the wedding. Anggia was very sure that she wanted a lot of pink and champagne colors, with a whimsical and fairytale-like ambiance. Every wish came to life on the wedding day!

Anggia and Andi are a very traditional couple. They exchanged their vows in their home church, Torrey Pines Christian Church.

It poured the day of their wedding, but that did not stop these two from making the most of every moment!

Anggia and Andi chose Paradise Point as the perfect location for their reception. The ballroom was transformed by chivari chairs and specialty linens, brought in specifically for the occasion. The tables were adorned with beautiful florals dripping with crystals, and uplighting set the mood. Finally, a custom dance floor designed by Anggia and Andi completed the transformation.

Throughout the wedding process, I was involved with all the major aspect of planning (site walk-throughs, vendor appointments/confirmations, timeline creation, rehearsal, and of course wedding day coordination). I suggested vendors for the couple to work with, and accompanied them to key appointments. This left Anggia free to focus on a lot of the little details, such as these favors.

My favorite part about working with Anggia and Andi was how positive they were at every interaction. No matter the situation, they were kind, fun, sweet, and smiling. If they were ever overwhelmed, they managed it well, because they were and still are one of the most positive couples I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with!