11Dec

The Westgate Hotel

By, December 11, 2017

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.

Antique wedding style
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.
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
Antique wedding style
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.
Classic antique wedding
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
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.
Antique wedding style
Westgate San Diego Wedding
As you can imagine the ceremony and reception spaces in the hotel are equally elaborate.
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
The Westgate Hotel Wedding
Antique wedding style
Antique wedding style
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
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.
San Diego wedding
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
Wedding at the Westgate Hotel in San Diego
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
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!
Candid urban wedding photo
Urban Photo at Westgate Hotel
Horton Plaza Park
Trolley San Diego wedding photo
Wedding Venue San Diego
Westgate Hotel Wedding Brunch
Sushi Bar at the Westgate Hotel
Sushi Bar at the Westgate Hotel
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, January 22, 2016

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 :)

View of Beverly Mansion during daytimeBride getting ready at Beverly MansionBridesmaids pose for photo before ceremonyBride and Groom pose outside Beverly MansionCouples celebrate in fun ways on wedding dayBeautiful pink ceremony at Beverly MansionTraditional Bride and GroomCouple arrives in Horse Drawn CarriageBride and Groom kiss at end of ceremonyBride and Groom kiss in fairytale settingBride and Groom Kiss in Front of GateBride and Groom pose by lake at Grand TraditionBride and Groom photographed through hole for creative anglePhoto of Beverly Mansion in early eveningWide angle room photo of Beverly MansionBeautiful and Ornate Crystal ChandelierCouple have fun during First DanceBride and Groom plan fun sparkler exit0001Liseth_Joel_pf

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.

Bride and Groom kiss in front of waterfall at nightBrides get ready for wedding day by putting on jewelry and dressBride and Groom's First Look between doorway0349Naomi_LukeLovely Ceremony Wedding Details at Grand Tradition0033Susan_JR_pf0037Grace_Daryl_pfCouple pose on Bridge over waterFun and unique creative portraits at Arbor TerraceCouple lean in for kiss by flowing fountainCouple kiss in tropical gardenMarket Lighting at Wedding ReceptionFuscia-themed wedding cake and party favor reception detailsOutdoor fireplace decorated with purple and pink propsCouple kiss at sweetheart table during wedding receptionCollage of Couples enjoying first moments at wedding receptionCouple perform fun dance during wedding receptionGuests breakdancing during wedding reception0069Grace_Daryl_pf

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, August 08, 2012

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!

San Diego Wedding Coordinator Alison Howard EventsSan Diego Wedding Coordinator Alison Howard EventsWedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events San DiegoWedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events San DiegoWedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events San Diego

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

San Diego Wedding Coordinator Alison Howard EventsSan Diego Wedding Coordinator Alison Howard EventsSan Diego Wedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events

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

San Diego Wedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events

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.

San Diego Wedding Coordinator Alison Howard EventsWedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events San DiegoWedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events San DiegoWedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events San DiegoWedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events San DiegoWedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events San Diego

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.

Wedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events San Diego

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!

Wedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events San DiegoWedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events San Diego

The night ended with a grand exit complete with sparklers! It was the perfect end to this fairytale wedding.

San Diego Wedding Coordinator Alison Howard EventsSan Diego Wedding Coordinator Alison Howard Events

Coordinator: Alison Howard Events
Photographer: True Photography
Venue: Paradise Point
Transportation: Rolls Livery
Makeup: Mgani Makeup
Linens and Rental: Concepts Event Design
Lighting and Décor: Tim Altbaum Productions
Florist: Tessilk Flowers
Disc Jockey: Tim Altbaum Productions
Bakery: Edelweiss Bakery
Videographer: NR3

San Diego Wedding Photographer

Wedding Photography San Diego

For over twenty years, True Photography has set the standard among San Diego wedding photographers for innovative, stylish, and timeless imagery. As well, when you are seeking a San Diego corporate event photographer, True Photography leads the way with creative and powerful event photography. Each photographer is hand selected for their creativity, technical knowledge, and charismatic personality. We invite you to view each portfolio, and select the photographer who will best capture your vision for your big event. Your San Diego Wedding Photographer – your San Diego Event Photographer – True Photography. Whether it’s San Diego Wedding Photography or San Diego headshots, or San Diego Events, True Photography will deliver. Check availability: [email protected]

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