16Mar

La Valencia | Classic Venue with a Modern Twist

By, March 16, 2016

La Valencia is a vintage Spanish-stye San Diego hotel overlooking La Jolla Cove. With a colorful history dating back to 1926, this old-school gem has color flourishes throughout, and stunning panoramic ocean views. The venue’s tropical garden is tranquil and breathtaking, and is an undeniably gorgeous place to exchange wedding vows.

Couple lean in for kiss overlooking ocean at La ValenciaBeautiful Brides in at La ValenciaBride poses with blue wedding shoes at La Valencia

As photographers, we love finding new, creative ways to put a fresh spin on this old-world venue.

Bride looks out from balcony during pre ceremonyGroomsmen walk down city street near La Valencia

We have our favorite spots also, such as the hotel’s vibrant pink exterior, gorgeous tiled walls, and hand-painted murals.

Groom standing in front of textile wall at La Valencia Aerial view of couple's wedding ceremony at La Valencia HotelCollaged image of ceremony details at La Valencia HotelBride and Groom lean in for kiss out on balcony at La ValenciaModern Couples pose in front of colorful textile walls at La Valencia HotelBride and Groom lean in for an artistic photo of them kissing down stairwell Bride and Groom lean in for kiss with dramatic back lightCouples explore the artistic, urban neighborhood next to La Valencia Hotel for creative backgrounds

The surrounding La Jolla neighborhood is a treasure trove of photo opportunities. There are colorful buildings, city backdrops, and the famous La Jolla Cove, all within a four minute walk.

Bridal Party dressed in grey and pink walk across street in La Jolla Bride posed with fun groomsmen bridal party at La Jolla Cove

After the ceremony, the nearby beach is an inviting place for couples to relax, have a quick photo session, and refresh before rejoining friends and family. The vivid hues, natural surroundings, and soft light create a sense of timeless intimacy, resulting in beautiful portraits. It is an amazing way to spend the first few moments as a newly married couple :)

Couple pose in front of sunset sky at La Jolla CoveCollage of classic wedding receptions at the Verandah Ball Room and Terrace in La Valencia Hotel

As the day crosses over into evening, it’s time to celebrate at La Valencia’s Verandah Ballroom and Terrace. Sitting high above the property, this room provides magnificent views, and is furnished with crystal chandeliers and stylish checkered floors. This elegant setting is perfect for a dramatic grand entrance, and will enchant guests as they party the night away.

Elegant room photo of couple's wedding reception at La Valencia HotelBride and Groom share first dance at La Valencia HotelGuests at wedding reception have fun with photoboothUrban night photo from the outside of La Valencia HotelBride and Groom kiss and toast champagne

For more of our favorite weddings photographed at La Valencia Hotel, please visit this link.

29Feb

Green Gables Wedding Estate | Venue Spotlight

By, February 29, 2016

Tucked away in the secluded forests of San Marcos lies the rustic, elegant Green Gables Wedding Estate. A historical landmark dating back to 1889, this chic venue is well-known for its array of antique accents and lush, tranquil gardens. For couples seeking a rustic destination-style wedding, both Green Gables and its sister property Twin Oaks Garden Estate are popular choices, and strikingly beautiful locations.

One of Green Gables’ most prominent features is the Old Richland Schoolhouse, which overlooks the venue’s English-inspired garden ceremony site.

Scenic photo of vintage schoolhouse at Green Gables Wedding Estate Brides prepare for wedding day at Green Gables Wedding Estate

The building’s interior is decorated with regal Victorian furniture, with massive windows drawing in natural light.

Bridesmaids look at Bride in dress during pre-ceremonyBridesmaids sit with Bride on vintage couch at Green Gables Groomsmen have fun and prepare for wedding at Green Gables Wedding Estate

Outside, the classic wooden swing (above right) brings out the joy and excitement of the day, and is one of our favorite spots to photograph.

Groomsmen show off fun purple socksRustic wedding details on display at Green GablesView of ceremony from Bride's view at Green Gables Wedding EstateBride and Father walk down aisle at Green Gables Wedding EstateCouples say I do under white gazebo at Green Gables Wedding EstateBride and Groom lean in for kiss through truck windowCouple make funny faces while holding vintage frames Collaged image of couples celebrating their wedding day at Green Gables Wedding EstateBride and Groom lean in for romantic kiss in front of schoolhouseRustic-inspired wedding reception details at the historic Green Gables Wedding EstateColorful bridal party poses with vintage truckBride and Groom are introduced for a fun grand entrance

At reception time, guests find their way to Green Gables’ impressive tented pavilion. With its draped-chiffon ceilings, and five crystal chandeliers, the pavilion’s intimate atmosphere is the perfect environment for a lively evening. We love pushing the envelope in such a beautiful space, and we use an array of lighting techniques to capture the scenery in creative ways.

Ornate purple reception details at Green GablesEmpty reception room at green gables wedding estate decorated in fusciaCouple share first dance together in tented pavilion during receptionCouple hold hands in front of background of light

As the party gets underway, and the dance floor heats up, we like to borrow the bride and groom for a series of fun night portraits. We use shooting methods (such as off-camera flash and long-exposure) to produce eye-catching images that are only possible at night :)

Creative night photos of couples using dramatic lightNight photo of tented pavilion at Green Gables

For more inspiration and wedding photos from Green Gables Wedding Estate, please click here.

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