17May

Rancho Guajome Ranch | Leticia and Anthony

By, May 17, 2016

Leticia and Anthony tied the knot at the historic Rancho Guajome Adobe, located in Vista, California. Built in 1852, and situated within the Guajome County Park, this beautiful 2,219-acre landmark features rustic wood wagons, old barns, and a stunning Victorian garden. With its range of architectural styles, and proximity to nature, the Ranch made for a fun and idyllic wedding venue.

Bride and Groom kiss under Spanish-style Arch with flowers in background

The site’s most prominent feature, a 20-room Spanish Colonial style hacienda, lies at the property’s center. It is decorated with vibrant green doors, arcaded verandas, and a lush garden courtyard.

Spanish bride portrait with hanging sleeved wedding dress and rustic bouquet Close up of Groom's bow tie, boutonniere and pocket square Leticia’s beautiful bouquet (see below), designed by San Diego Bay Flower Company, was comprised of a wide range of flowers, including astrantia, succulents, hypericum berries, and sweet alyssum. These textured florals created a unique and stunning presentation, and paired nicely with the area’s desert vegetation.

Bride solo portrait with colorful rustic bouquet in front of green doors Groomsmen portraits with jackets off at rustic, spanish-style barn The property, originally a cattle ranch, is now maintained as a museum, with many authentic artifacts from the late 1800’s. When we noticed this wind-beaten barn, and its textured tin roof, we had Anthony and his best man hop in front, resulting in this Wild West throwback photo (above).

Wedding Couple hold hands during Veranda ceremony Bride and Father walk down aisle during outdoor rustic wedding in Vista By having two photographers, we were able to shoot from multiple vantage points at the same time. For example, as Leticia came down the aisle, we were able to capture her candid expression of joy (above).

Bride and Groom wedding portraits in garden courtyard of historical spanish-style house Black and white photo of Groom Kissing Bride Solo photos of Bride and Groom during rustic wedding at spanish-style ranch

With over 220 acres of land to roam, we made sure to arrive early, as we do at every wedding. That way, we were able to get a head start for the day, and make our game plan. For example, we scheduled our timing to take advantage of the beautiful golden light, resulting in photos like the one below.

Romantic Wedding Couple Portraits at Spanish-style ranch wedding venue Creative Couple's Rings Photo on green and pink cactus

For a bold splash of color, we placed Leticia and Anthony’s wedding rings across a blooming Prickly Pear Cactus (above).

Outdoor wedding reception with trees and trellis' in Victorian Garden Bride and Groom's First Dance in Victorian Garden at Spanish-style venue during outdoor rustic wedding reception Rustic Wedding Reception in Victorian Garden in Vista, CA After the vow exchange at the West Veranda, guests relaxed and enjoyed the reception at the elegant Victorian garden. Nestled under massive tipu and pepper trees, the garden was a picturesque location for an afternoon of celebrating.

Rustic-inspired wedding cake during wedding at Spanish-style venue Wedding guests have fun dancing under tent at outdoor wedding reception Cute kids climbing trees and playing with grandma during outdoor wedding reception in Victorian Garden

We had lots of fun photographing the guests, and even rounded up the couple’s 90-year-old grandmas for an hilarious group portrait (below).

Older guests have fun with creative photobooth props at wedding reception Wedding Couple with fun photobooth props and walking through grassy field during sunset at wedding reception at spanish-style ranch Black and White photo of Bride and Groom standing in grassy field on wedding dayBride and Groom portraits with golden natural light at spanish-style ranch As the day turned to dusk, we were able to sneak the couple away for one final set of romantic sunset photos. We had saved this location for last, knowing the golden hour light would be at its best. With a wide angle lens, we were able to incorporate the vast environment surrounding the couple, and preserve this quiet and intimate moment.

Bride and Groom wedding portraits standing in grassy field with natural light

Check out more images from Leticia and Anthony’s Rancho Guajome Adobe wedding.

04Apr

Through the Grapevine | Vineyard Weddings

By, April 04, 2016

Tucked away in the valleys of Temecula, Escondido, and surrounding regions are award-winning San Diego-area vineyards. These properties are not only good for day trips and tastings – they make amazing wedding locations also! With their magical rolling hills,and fields of vines, local wineries are perfect venues for those looking to escape the city.

We have selected a few of our favorite images from recent vineyard weddings. Grab a glass of your favorite red or white (or both), and enjoy the inspiration :)

Couple pose with flowers in air around them

At the wedding of Apple and Ben (above), we went to one of our favorite spots at Orfila Vineyards, overlooking the fields below. As the couple embraced, we surrounded them with flower petals, and added a backlight for contrast, drama and elegance.

Wedding Couple in Windmill at Cal-A-Vie

We love incorporating a vineyard’s unique rustic features, such as this majestic windmill at Cal-A-Vie (above). The textured stone walls and wood accents lent an old-world charm to these photos, which were captured at April and Aaron’s wedding.

Modern Couple pose in vineyard and with balloonsCouple stand in middle of vineyardGroomsmen toast with beersBride's details during vineyard wedding

At Stephanie and Sean’s Orfila Vineyards wedding, we rested our bride’s beautiful bouquet against a textured wine barrel (above). The rich red roses and hypericum berries, set against the rustic browns of the barrel, made for an ideal pairing.

Bridesmaid with parasol umbrellas in vineyardCollaged image of rustic flowers with brideCool bridal party dressed in green at winery weddingCouple holding hands and kissing with rustic background

As photographers, one of our favorite things is to scout out the best hidden locations. By arriving early, we are able to find areas with the best light of the day, as well as little “nooks and crannies” within the venue.

Couple kiss in oversized wine barrelUmbrellas and Signs for vineyard weddingGorgeous view of mountains and vineyard at Orfila WineryBride and Groom walk down aisle together at vineyard

Whenever possible, we use the natural surroundings and daylight to our advantage, such as during Katie and Patrick’s wedding at the Yates Family Vineyard in Napa. When Katie made her debut, the light illuminated the leaves and her dress, which made for a stunning grand entrance.

Bride's teary-eyed reaction to Groom during wedding ceremonyCouple's First Kiss during Vineyard WeddingBride and Groom kissing under natural archwayCouple Kissing between leaves in vineyardCouples celebrate and pose for photos after vineyard ceremonyAerial photo of stunning sunset during reception at vineyard

After the ceremony, we like to make use of the stunning sunset colors, which can be especially vivid at remote winery locations. The golden vibrance of the sun, captured at just the right moment, helped to create the dreamlike image above.

Rustic wine-related reception details during vineyard weddingProps during fun travel-themed reception

These rustic, travel-themed accents from Michelle and Richard’s wedding at Bernardo Winery (above) added a fun splash of color, while also engaging guests to interact. The couple invited attendees to write messages in a bottles, to be opened on future anniversaries, while paying tribute to those who had traveled long distances.

Rustic-themed details at vineyard wedding receptionCouple Kiss in front of wine barrelsFuscia Wedding Reception Details at VineyardRed wine-themed details during receptionCouple Cuts into Cake during Wedding Reception

You can’t have a winery wedding without grapes :) Before these were sent off to become wine, we borrowed this lush vine from Kim and Austin’s wedding for a unique ring shot. By using a simple background, and a strategically placed LED light, these rings began to sparkle!

Creative Ring Photo with GrapesGuest hula-hoops during wedding receptionNight Portrait of Couple at Vineyard

For the photo below, we snuck behind-the-scenes with Naomi and Partho during their reception at Callaway Vineyards and Winery. By shooting at a low angle and adding a backlight to create dimension, the containers added a larger-than-life feeling to this epic kiss.

Couple kiss between distillery tanks at vineyard

For additional breathtaking vineyard wedding photos, please click here. Salute!

07Mar

Wedding Professionals Event | Cal-a-Vie Health Spa & Vista Valley Country Club

By, March 07, 2016

Recently, we were excited to photograph a two-part event for our friends in the industry, including wedding coordinators and event professionals. The first part of this beautiful event was put together by top San Diego wedding coordinator Lisa Lippe, of Details Defined. The event took place at two stunning venues in Vista, California, kicking off at Cal-a-Vie Health Spa. This breathtaking property, nestled on two hundred private acres among rolling hills and vineyards, served as the ideal location for the day’s activities.

Wedding at Cal-a-Vie Health Spa Vista

Upon arrival, guests were greeted by the sight of a charming windmill and a gorgeous rustic chapel. The 400-year-old chapel is a luxurious and romantic place for private ceremonies, and is a highlight of Cal-a-Vie. For this event, the little chapel’s aisle was lined with ferns, eucalyptus and other greens designed by Blush Botanicals, and accented with candles throughout.

beautiful sun flare photo of rustic chapel at Cal-a-Vie Health Spa weddingcolorful photo of windmill against blue sky at cal-a-vie, vista, californiaRustic wedding chapel candles and eucalyptus

As guests made their way to the grand entrance, they were presented with refreshing cherry-apple spritzers. Once inside, the cozy group of partygoers chatted and enjoyed the winter sunshine on the lawn. Attendees also relaxed in the living room area, with its antique décor and cozy fireplace.

Refreshing apple cherry spritzers with blueberry served at cal-a-vie eventfountain with sun flare at exclusive wedding venue cal-a-vieSan Diego Wedding coordintors at Vista California eventcozy entrance at exclusive wedding venue rustic antique decor

The group soon moved along into the L’Orangerie reception venue, and were awed by an elegant banquet table designed by Blush Botanicals. The table was decked out in a rustic natural palette, consisting of brass vases, candles, calming purples, blushing nudes and green plants. The adjacent fireplace, adorned with lush greenery and candles, was the perfect finishing touch to this breathtaking setting.

Long table for rustic wedding receptionRustic beauty luxury wedding tablescapeEucalyptus details on fireplace at wedding

With a little downtime, guests enjoyed delicious appetizers, and lounged on chic tufted outdoor furniture. We couldn’t resist the amazing treats and cakes provided by Sweet Cheeks Baking Co., among them a marble fondant icing that looked too good to eat.

Wedding dessert table at outdoor eventWedding cake by Sweet Cheeks Baking Company in San DiegoArtisan cheese board for eventMarbled wedding cake with lavendar accentsWedding dessert table treatsOutdoor wedding furniture on lawn

Later in the day, we headed over to Vista Valley Country Club, a members-only club and golf retreat adjacent to Cal-A-Vie. Afternoon activities were impressively coordinated by Always Flawless Productions and included a mock wedding ceremony and reception. Table details incorporated colorful florals and linens by Sweet Ribbon Events, and elegant plates, glasses and candle holders by Allie’s Party Equipment Rental.

Vista Valley Country Club Wedding VenueWedding invitations and place settingsWedding sweetheart table in Vista CaliforniaWedding table at Vista receptionSan Diego wedding venue Vista Valley Country Club0211IMG_1668Wedding appetizers in shot glass Wedding dessert and salad in Vista California

Later, a golf cart took party-goers down to the ceremony site, where the venue’s giant gate doors were decorated with flowers. The site’s understated and dreamy presentation included overhead market lights, chandeliers, canvas painting by ArtLive, and music by Mike Officer.

Vista Valley Country Club Wedding with EucalyptusWedding Ceremony set up with market lights Painting of wedding ceremony or reception at Vista Valley Country Club Wedding ceremony hanging chandelliersWedding ceremony accoustic guitarist
San Diego wedding coordinators at Vista Valley Country ClubGolf course at Vista Valley Country Club wedding

The event was a wonderful time for everyone in attendance. It was a pleasure for True Photography to be a part of this special day :)

Cal-a-Vie Event Vendors

Venue: Cal-a-Vie Health Spa
Coordinator: Details Defined
Photographer: True Photography
Florals: Blush Botanicals
Bakery: Sweet Cheeks Baking Co.

Vista Valley Country Club Event Vendors

Venue: Vista Valley Country Club
Coordinator: Always Flawless Productions
Photographer: True Photography
Floral / Linens: Sweet Ribbon Events
Ceremony Lighting: D Lighting
Ceremony Musician: Mike Officer
DJ: Movin Tunes
Rentals: Allie’s Party Equipment Rental
Photo Booth: The Foto Box
Canvas Painting: ArtLive
Caricatures: Caricatures by Dave
Lodging: Welk Resorts

To see recent weddings we have photographed at Vista Valley Country Club, please click here.
For Cal-a-Vie weddings, including the wedding of our own CEO Aaron Feldman, please click here.

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]

© 2009-2022 True Photography. All rights reserved.