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.

26Jan

Bring it on, El Niño!

By, January 26, 2016

If you’ve been anywhere near San Diego these last few weeks, chances are you’ve felt the wrath El Niño has had on our sunny shores. But a little rain never stopped us before :) By booking talented photographers who know their craft, and how to handle the elements, you’ll see how rain can easily be turned into a dynamic and creative photo opportunity.

Here are a few fun ways to embrace the rain, and to show the weather who is boss.

1. Jump Into It

We add drama and emotion to your photos by taking control of the weather, and by using light in creative ways. As the clouds draw in, and the sprinkles come down, we’re ready use the rain to your advantage.
Couple kissing in rain holding umbrellaCouple Kiss in Rain

Couples Holding Umbrellas in Rain

2. Reflections

Another innovative way to add edge to your wedding memories is to transform an ordinary puddle into a sea of reflection. This technique adds a cool, modern twist to your images.
Couple hold hands by rain puddle

Couple kiss by puddle on rainy day

3. Rainy Day Props

When facing stormy weather, don’t forget to include some fun! Rainy day props such as umbrellas or rainbows introduce a splash of color and youthful energy into your images.
Bridesmaids with UmbrellasGroomsmen holding blue umbrellaCouple kiss in rain under umbrella

4. Capture the Clouds

When skies turn gray, and clouds begin to roll in, don’t forget to look up! The muted blues of the sky add drama and intensity to the scene, which turns the landscape from dull to epic.
Bride and Groom kissing in front of Unique TreeBride and Groom standing together with red umbrella and lightning
A true classic (above). During a lightning storm, we photographed a couple hanging on to a metal umbrella, while holding a metal camera at 5,500 feet elevation. Was this the smartest idea? Probably not… But if it was going to be the last photo we ever took, we made sure to make it amazing! No, this isn’t a Photoshopped lighting bolt, as many often think ;)

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.

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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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