Destination Wedding in French Countryside | Mhica & Mehdi

Chateau de Bagnols Wedding Photography in the French Countryside

Mhica and Mehdi’s Chateau de Bagnols wedding photography experience was the epitome of intimate luxury in the French countryside. Set within the historic walls of the 800-year-old Château de Bagnols, their celebration brought together just 26 guests for a refined and deeply personal destination wedding in France.

Located just outside Lyon in the rolling Beaujolais countryside, Château de Bagnols is over 800 years old. With its golden stone walls, arched passageways, and sweeping vineyard views, it remains one of the most remarkable destinations for a luxury wedding in France. The château offers history, privacy, and architectural beauty that simply cannot be replicated.

For couples seeking an immersive French countryside wedding, it provides an experience rather than just a venue.

Bridal Preparations Inside an 800-Year-Old Château

The morning began quietly inside Mhica’s bridal suite. Natural light poured through tall windows as she prepared with the help of her sister Nicole and her maid of honor. The atmosphere felt calm, intimate, and intentional.

Her gown offered a modern interpretation of timeless elegance. A plunging neckline paired with a tulle cape adorned in delicate floral detailing created a silhouette that felt both fashion-forward and romantic.

Before stepping outside, we captured portraits within the suite, allowing the historic textures of the château to frame her look. Soon after, Mhica shared an emotional first look with her parents in the courtyard. Her mother fought back tears of joy as she saw her daughter fully dressed for the first time.

Moments later, Mehdi joined us for their first look. Emotion took over immediately. Afterward, we explored the property for portraits, discovering quiet alcoves and soft directional light that allowed for beautifully intimate imagery.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A Civil Ceremony in Lyon & Golden Hour in the Countryside

Because French law requires civil ceremonies to take place at city hall within the arrondissement where one of the couple resides or is registered, Mhica and Mehdi traveled to Lyon for their official ceremony. In an elegant mairie tied to Mehdi’s family, they exchanged vows surrounded by close relatives.

Afterward, everyone boarded a bus back to the château. Cocktail hour unfolded against panoramic views of the rolling hills near Lyon. Guests enjoyed refined hors d’oeuvres, French wines, and custom-illustrated portraits created by an on-site artist.

As golden hour approached, we stepped away for additional portraits. The countryside glowed in warm light, and the château’s honey-colored stone reflected the sunset beautifully. We moved slowly through the grounds, intentionally incorporating its architectural depth and varied textures into every frame.

An Intimate Reception Beneath the Château Skylight

The reception took place inside the château’s main atrium. Above, a dramatic skylight allowed natural light to cascade into the space. A single long communal table anchored the room, reinforcing the intimacy of the evening.

Candles and florals adorned the table, while warm light flickered across historic stone walls. The setting felt romantic, understated, and impossibly refined.

A live French jazz band played softly as guests dined on multiple courses paired with exceptional local wines. Later, Mhica and Mehdi cut into a traditional croquembouche together — a classic French wedding dessert that added both elegance and cultural significance to the evening.

The celebration felt unhurried. Conversation flowed easily. Laughter echoed beneath centuries-old beams.

A Luxury Wedding Experience in France

This Château de Bagnols wedding photography experience reflects what makes destination weddings in France so extraordinary. Rather than hosting a large-scale production, Mhica and Mehdi chose intimacy, heritage, and intentional design.

For couples who value fashion, architecture, cultural tradition, and immersive experiences, a French countryside wedding offers unmatched beauty and refinement.

I remain incredibly grateful to have documented such a meaningful celebration in one of France’s most historic estates. Capturing their love story in the Beaujolais region was an honor — and I look forward to continuing their journey when we reunite in the Caribbean next year for their next celebration.

For couples planning a refined destination celebration, I also photograph luxury weddings throughout France and Europe. Click here to see more of my work.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Venue | Chateau De Bagnols

Planning | Zillman Weddings & Travel

Florals | Fleur D Eden

Destination Wedding at the Four Seasons Ocean Club in the Bahamas | Jordyn & Steven

Luxury Four Seasons Ocean Club Wedding Photography in the Bahamas

When Jordan and Steven envisioned their wedding weekend, they didn’t just plan a ceremony — they curated an experience. Instead of hosting a single evening celebration, they invited their guests to the Bahamas for three unforgettable days at the Four Seasons Ocean Club.

EKS Events led the planning and design with precision, while Wildflower Bahamas created lush floral installations that elevated every space. As a result, the entire property felt transformed into a private world designed exclusively for their closest family and friends.

Night One: An Oceanfront Welcome Celebration

To begin the festivities, guests gathered for an elegant welcome party overlooking the ocean. As the sun set over the water, candlelight flickered against the breeze and cocktails flowed freely.

Not only did the evening set the tone for the weekend, but it also allowed everyone to settle into the rhythm of island life. Laughter carried across the terrace, and anticipation built for what was to come.

Day Two: A Chic Poolside Affair at SLS

The following afternoon, the celebration shifted to a private pool party at the SLS Hotel. Under bright Bahamian sunshine, guests enjoyed curated cocktails, music, and a lively atmosphere.

While the tone felt playful, the execution remained refined. Every detail reflected intentional design. Consequently, the weekend never lost its sense of luxury — even during its most relaxed moments.

Wedding Morning: First Looks & Sacred Traditions

On the wedding day, we arrived early for getting-ready moments filled with excitement and emotion. Meanwhile, final touches unfolded quietly in each suite.

First, Jordan met her father in the garden for a deeply heartfelt first look. Shortly after, Steven joined us beneath the palms. As soon as he turned to see her, emotion overtook them both.

Afterward, we explored the garden grounds for portraits in the soft morning light. Then, we transitioned indoors for an intimate ketubah ceremony, where close family gathered in a moment of meaningful tradition before the larger celebration began.

A Historic Cloisters Ceremony Overlooking the Sea

Later in the afternoon, guests assembled at the historic Cloisters overlooking the ocean. Pastel blooms lined the aisle and framed an elegant chuppah at the altar.

For the wedding day, the men embraced classic black tie attire. However, each one paired his tuxedo with Jordans — a playful nod to the bride’s name. Meanwhile, the bridesmaids wore individually selected black dresses, creating a fashion-forward yet cohesive look.

Beneath the chuppah, Jordan and Steven honored Jewish tradition in a ceremony filled with sincerity and joy. Once they sealed their vows, guests showered them with petals as they recessed down the aisle.

Following the ceremony, we captured sunset portraits before gathering family beneath the chuppah for formal photographs.

A Sunflower-Draped Tent & Bahamian After Party

As dusk settled over the property, guests moved into a custom-built reception tent designed entirely by EKS Events. Because sunflowers are Jordan’s favorite bloom, the team draped the ceiling with cascading installations in dramatic abundance.

Inside, candlelight glowed warmly against layered florals and elegant table settings. After heartfelt speeches and live performances, the multi-piece band energized the dance floor.

Later in the evening, Jordan changed into a feathered and embellished mini dress that perfectly suited the Bahamas setting. Finally, once dinner and dancing concluded, guests were ushered poolside to the vibrant sound of Junkanoo musicians. There, beneath the stars, the celebration continued into the night.

For couples seeking an immersive destination experience, Four Seasons Ocean Club wedding photography offers a rare combination of historic architecture, oceanfront grandeur, and impeccable service. Above all, Jordan and Steven’s three-day celebration demonstrates how elevated design and thoughtful hospitality can transform a wedding into a truly unforgettable escape.

Photography | Alex W Photography 

Planning & Design | EKS Events

Florals | Wildflowers Bahamas

Wedding Venue | Four Seasons Ocean Club

Video | Aaron Novak Films

Entertainment | Elan Artists

Printed Material | The Paper Place

Cake | Tier Cake Loft

Hair and Makeup | Deborah Padilla and En Edri Salon

 

Valley Rock Inn Wedding | Lauren & Matt

Luxury Valley Rock Inn Wedding Photography in New York

When Lauren and Matt began planning their wedding, they wanted an estate setting that felt removed from the city yet easily accessible for their New York guests. Just outside NYC, Valley Rock Inn offered the perfect balance of privacy, landscape, and refined elegance.

Their vision centered on fashion, florals, and an immersive guest experience. Every detail reflected thoughtful design and elevated taste — from couture-inspired portraits to a reception tent transformed into a woodland dream.

Champagne, Couture & A Rose Garden First Look

The day began with champagne. Lauren celebrated with her bridesmaids before stepping into her gown — a plunging strapless dress adorned with delicate floral detailing. The silhouette felt modern yet romantic, perfectly suited for an estate celebration.

Meanwhile, Matt and his groomsmen embraced timeless black tuxedos. The contrast against the lush property created a striking visual balance.

Their first look took place in the rose garden, which overflowed with white blooms. When Matt turned and saw Lauren for the first time, the emotion was immediate and genuine. Afterward, we explored the property for portraits, taking advantage of the soft afternoon light and architectural alcoves tucked throughout the grounds.

Bridal party portraits followed. Inspired by Vanity Fair editorial styling, we created a bold, fashion-forward group composition. The bridesmaids wore ice blue gowns and carried crisp white bouquets, adding contrast while maintaining a cohesive, elevated palette.

 

A Secret Garden Escort Display & Heartfelt Lawn Ceremony

Socialife Events designed an escort card installation that felt like it belonged in a hidden garden. Moss-covered stands appeared to grow organically from the ground. Delicately calligraphed envelopes, sealed with Lauren and Matt’s initials, rested on plexiglass panels that made them appear suspended in air.

The ceremony unfolded on the main lawn. White roses, hydrangeas, and cheerful white-and-yellow blooms lined the aisle in abundance. The setting felt both grand and intimate. After exchanging vows, Lauren and Matt recessed down the aisle as guests showered them in white rose petals — a celebratory and cinematic moment.

An Elevated Cocktail Hour Experience

Cocktail hour delivered indulgence. Guests enjoyed a luxurious seafood spread, rack of lamb, and an array of elevated hors d’oeuvres. Decadent cocktails flowed freely while guests mingled across the manicured grounds.

This intentional experience set the tone for what awaited inside the reception tent.

A Woodland-Inspired Sperry Tent Reception

The Sperry tent felt transformative. At the entrance, a sweeping floral installation intertwined with lush greenery and candlelight, creating the illusion that nature had grown into the structure itself.

Inside, dining tables featured dramatic greenery that rose upward like miniature trees. Moss encircled their bases, reinforcing the organic woodland aesthetic. Hundreds of candles flickered across the tables, casting a warm, inviting glow.

Above the dance floor, chandeliers intertwined with suspended floral installations created a breathtaking focal point. The design felt immersive and transportive — refined yet organic.

Lauren and Matt shared a sweet first dance before heartfelt speeches began. As the evening progressed, guests filled the dance floor, toasted the couple, and celebrated late into the night.

For couples seeking refined estate celebrations just outside New York City, Valley Rock Inn offers a truly exceptional backdrop. This Valley Rock Inn wedding photography experience reflects what’s possible when fashion, thoughtful planning, and immersive design come together seamlessly.

Santa Barbara Courthouse Elopement | Katie + Sam

Santa Barbara Courthouse Elopement

These lovebirds decided that COVID wasn’t going to stop them from marrying one another. So they did the most sensible thing a couple could do when in love and wanting to get married- they packed their bags and headed North for a Santa Barbara courthouse elopement. I met Katie and Sam on a warm Friday afternoon in the courthouse’s sunken garden where the ceremony would take place. Katie wore a timeless white satin dress accompanied by a fresh bouquet of all white flowers. Sam donned a linen suit in cornflower blue paired with brown leather accent pieces. After an exchange of rings and signing of the marriage license, the couple made it official with a (mask-free) kiss.

Following the ceremony, we explored the property and captured their just-married portraits. We always strive to time our portraits sessions to coincide with the last few hours of daylight. This is because those last few hours offer the best and most beautiful light of the entire day. Katie and Sam’s session certainly didn’t disappoint as they were draped in that quintessential California light. We took our time making sure to not miss any of the beautiful vignettes the property has to offer. These two not only have spectacular chemistry together but they’re also incredibly easy on the eyes. A true dream to photograph!

While we photographed we chatted about life and the challenges of buying a house during COVID. We swapped photos of our pups back at home and discussed their plans for the big wedding celebration. Even though this wasn’t their first choice of how they would have liked to have gotten married, it was beautiful. It was truly an honor to photograph this time in their lives.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Florals | Knot Just Flowers

Hair + Makeup | TEAM Hair and Makeup

Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab

Rosewood Miramar Beach Wedding | Katarina + Dominic

Rosewood Miramar Beach Wedding

I had the pleasure of photographing an elegant Rosewood Miramar Beach wedding earlier this year in Montecito. The Rosewood opened just over a year ago and now serves as one of Santa Barbara’s premier luxury hotels and wedding destinations. The property boasts private villas, five-star dining, its own beach, and unparalleled five-star service. This beautiful venue served as the backdrop for the day’s festivities.

Getting Ready For the Big Day 

Katarina and her bridesmaids got ready in the bridal suite of the hotel, overlooking the mail pool and ocean. Everyone was in great spirits while the ladies of TEAM Hair and Makeup worked their magic. A Chinese tea ceremony was held in the morning before Katarina slipped into her wedding dress. Both families attended and gave gifts to the couple, along with words of wisdom and well-wishes.

Following the tea ceremony was the first look for the bride and groom. Katarina slipped into her dress with the help of her bridesmaids and Mom. She paired her outfit with a pair of sparkly Louboutin heels and a bouquet from Toast Santa Barbara. The bridesmaids all wore stunning dusty rose velvet dresses from Jenny Yoo’s newest line. The couple’s dog, Teddy, was included in the big day and even donned a tux of his very own.

Ceremony

Nina Moore and her team designed the most beautiful ceremony space. The aisle was lined with cherry blossom trees, and loose petals were given to guests to toss. Katarina was walked down the aisle by her mother and father, while a four-piece string band’s music filled the air. Roses, orchids, and hydrangeas adorned the floral arch at the head of the aisle. A live artist was present on the day to paint the couple as they recessed back down the aisle and enjoyed their first dance as husband and wife.

Reception

The reception space was decorated with stunning monochromatic white and gold tones. The sweetheart table was adorned with candles and surrounded by cherry tree blossoms.

Katarina and Dominic enjoyed a sparkly cake-cutting while surrounded by all of their loved ones.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Venue | Rosewood Miramar Beach

Planning | Nina Moore

Florals | Toast Santa Barbara

Videography | The Quail and The Dove

Makeup + Hair | Team Hair and Makeup

DJ | LIV Entertainment Group

Dance Floor | RCD Dance Floors

Rentals | Bright Event Rentals

Linens | La Tavola Linen

Photo Booth | Mir Mir Photo

Omni Rancho Las Palmas Wedding | Hannah + Vaughn

Omni Rancho Las Palmas Wedding | Hannah + Vaughn

Palm Springs Wedding

This Omni Rancho Las Palmas wedding is seriously something special. Not only are the bride and groom two of the sweetest people I’ve met, but their wedding day was stunning. I knew after initially photographing Hannah + Vaughn for their engagement session that these two would be so much fun on their wedding day. Their chemistry together is so natural and organic that it makes my job capturing them a breeze!

The pair chose the beautiful Rancho Las Palmas resort in Rancho Mirage to say “I do”. This stunning venue set the perfect tone and made for the most beautiful backdrop for their wedding day. I highly recommend visiting the property if you haven’t done so. The sprawling grounds are filled with lush greenery and it overlooks the beautiful San Jacinto Mountains. The pool even had a “Splashtopia” zone which Vaughn certainly made use of during his stay there.

We met Hannah in her suite on the morning of the wedding day. She was getting ready with her closet ladies even though she chose to forgo a formal bridal party. We styled and photographed her details while she received the final hair and makeup touchups. Following hair and makeup, Hannah and her closest ladies popped a bottle of champagne and toasted the bride-to-be. Afterward, Hannah opened Vaughn’s wedding day gift and enjoyed a teary-eyed read from the card he wrote her.

Ceremony

Vaughn was getting ready across the property in his own suite. Once he was suited up, we headed outside for portraits and eagerly awaited Hannah to meet us for the first look.  The pair decided to forgo the traditional “tap on the shoulder” and instead stand back-to-back. They held one another’s hands and announced how excited they were to see the other. On three, they both turned and were immediately overcome with pure excitement. Soon after, all the guests joined us on the lawn for family portraits and found their seats, as the ceremony was about to begin. Hannah and Vaughn exchanged handwritten vows to one another under a wooden chuppah and celebrated their marriage by breaking the wine glass. 

Cocktail Hour

Cocktail hour was held on the main lawn once the ceremony concluded. Guests dined on charcuterie boards and sipped handmade cocktails while they mingled one another. Hannah and Vaughn were chasing the sunset on the other side of the property having their portraits taken. We headed to a section of the golf course that I had scouted the day prior. Everything was going perfect until a sneaky sprinkler popped up and shot a very surprising (yet refreshing) blast of water directly to the face. I’ve never seen a bride and groom run faster on their wedding day. 

We headed up to the reception space after capturing photos across the grounds. The sun was beginning to set and the light on the rooftop was just perfect. Hannah and Vaughn enjoyed the last few minutes of cocktail hour with their guests while we photographed all of the beautiful decor. The tables were adorned with golden chargers and had beautiful floral runners made up of white roses and eucalyptus. Guests were soon ushered upstairs where they were greeted with champagne and a live band. Everyone gathered around the dance floor to enjoy the first and parent dances. The dance floor opened at sunset and guests danced the night away to the undeniably talented Down Beat LA.

 

Photography | Alex W Photography

Planning | Weddings By Pam Olson

Venue | Omni Rancho Las Palmas

Florals + Lighting | Artisan Event and Floral Design

Hair + Makeup | Drea Nicole

Band | Down Beat LA

Rentals | Bright Event Rentals

Black Tie Avalon Palm Springs Wedding | Hilary + Adam

Avalon Palm Springs Wedding | Hilary + Adam

Hilary and Adam are Atlanta natives who chose to have a destination Avalon Palm Springs wedding. All of their friends and relatives flew from out of town to celebrate the couple and spend a weekend partying in the desert.  We have no doubt you too will want a Palm Springs wedding after seeing this black-tie affair.

Getting Ready

Hilary and Adam chose the historic Avalon Hotel as the backdrop for their celebration. They got ready in the bungalows the morning of their wedding day with their bridal party by their side. While the ladies were getting hair and makeup done we photographed the invitation suite and bridal details. Black and white were used throughout to mirror the black-tie theme of the wedding. The calligrapher even adorned their invitation suite with custom Palm Springs sketches and vellum inserts. Hilary wore an open-back dress with a plunging neckline and a bespoke perfume from Le Labo.

Adam looked like a member of the Rat Pack in his tuxedo and white jacket. He donned custom cufflinks with monogrammed initials alongside black satin loafers to complete the ensemble. Prior to the first look, Adam and the guys captured groomsmen portraits in the courtyard. Once the first look finished, we met with the rest of the bridal party on the main lawn for photos. The guys donned classic black tuxedoes while the ladies wore classic black floor-length dresses accompanied by white roses and olive bouquets.

Pre-Ceremony Portraits

Before the ceremony started we headed off-site to capture portraits with more of a natural Palm Springs vibe. There was a gorgeous area just down the street lined with palm trees and accompanied by mountain views.

Ceremony

The ceremony site was held on the main lawn with the San Jacinto mountains as the backdrop. The color palette was black and white, a perfect complement to everyone’s outfits. Giant vases filled with white and blush roses, olive branches, and peppercorns surrounded the altar. Hundreds of rose petals were scattered throughout the aisle and calligraphy programs were located on everyone’s seats.

A string quartet played “Sky Full of Stars” during the couple’s recessional back down the aisle.

Cocktail Hour

Cocktail hour was held by the main pool at sunset following the ceremony. Guests enjoyed artisan cocktails and tasty hors-d’oeuvres with each other while the couple portraits took place across the property.

Reception

The alfresco reception space took place beneath hundreds of twinkling market lights. Guests were greeted with warm candlelight and views of the San Jacinto mountains. 30-foot floral garlands filled with an abundance of white blooms and greenery decorated the communal tables.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Venue | Avalon Hotel

Planner/ Florist | Artisan Event Floral Decor

Makeup + Hair | Jen Plus Colour

Video | Paper Bird Weddings

String Quartet | City String Ensemble

Bakery | Exquisite Desserts

Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab

Fall Inspired Hotel Bel-Air Wedding | Melissa + Michael

Hotel Bel-Air Wedding | Melissa + Michael

I had the distinct pleasure of photographing Melissa and Michael’s Hotel Bel-Air wedding earlier this Fall. I first met this sweet couple last Summer when I photographed their friend’s wedding in Tuscany at Conti Di San Bonifacio. We were seated next to one another at the rehearsal dinner and instantly hit it off. Since then, I’ve documented their proposal on the top of a skyscraper in downtown Los Angeles and their engagement session at Sunstone Villa in Santa Ynez.

I arrived at Hotel Bel-Air the day before the wedding to photograph both their rehearsal dinner and to scout the grounds for tomorrow’s wedding. It was my first time visiting the venue, and as soon as I stepped foot on the grounds, I felt like I was transported to Northern California. The redwoods and sequoias encompassing the property were reminiscent of being in Muir Woods. Our team arrived the next morning to Melissa’s suite where she and the ladies were having their hair and makeup done. Michael and the guys were enjoying brunch on the main lawn before getting suited up for the day. We styled all of Melissa’s beautiful details in the courtyard outside her room. Honeycrisp Designs created the burgundy-influenced invitation suite that is perfectly balanced with the florals and color scheme of the day.

Morning Details

After Melissa’s mom helped her into her dress we headed out to meet Michael for the first look. Michael was eagerly awaiting Melissa’s arrival at the main lawn. When Michael turned to see his bride, the look of excitement and happiness on his face said it all. Soon after bridal party portraits were over guests began to arrive. They were led down a staircase that revealed the ceremony site below. Thousands of pink rose petals adorned the walkway that Melissa would walk down and modern, gold-backed chairs lined the aisle.

Cocktail Hour

Following the ceremony, Melissa and Michael recessed back down the aisle as guests showered the newly married couple with rose petals. Hors de oeuvres and cocktails were served as guests mingled during cocktail hour. While guests wined and dined, Melissa and Michael explored the property to capture their sunset portraits.

Reception

Guests were soon ushered indoors to dinner. Everyone’s jaws dropped as they made their way into the reception space. The area was adorned with blush, red, and burgundy flowers that perfectly complemented the golden tableware and blush seats. La Tavola linen supplied the most beautiful velvet napkins and Borrowed Blu’s burgundy stemmed glassware was just perfect.

The couple’s fathers and close friends gave heartfelt speeches while everyone joined in for toasts. After the speeches concluded, everyone surrounded the dance floor to watch Michael and Melissa have their first dance together. Fireworks shot out from the head table to end the dancing with a bang. Once dinner and cake cutting concluded, the dance floor opened up for dancing.

Outside of the reception space, an endless dessert bar of pastries and sweets awaited the guests. Everyone danced the night away while celebrating Melissa and Michael. The day was even more beautiful than anyone could have hoped for and it was an honor to have documented it.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Venue | Hotel Bel-Air

Planning + Design | Kelsey Events

Florals | Flowers By Cina

Beauty | Kelly Zhang Studio

Stationery | Honey Crisp Designs

Video | Monroe Films

Tableware | Borrowed Blu

Rentals | Bright Event Rentals, Chameleon Chair Collection, Chiavari Chair Rentals, Found Vintage Rentals

DJ | Visions Entertainment

Photobooth | Shutter Booth

Lighting + Draping | Amber Event Production

Cake | Simply Sweet Cakery

Acrylic | Delovely Details

Heels | Jimmy Choo

Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab

Casa Romantica Wedding | Cheryl + Drew

Casa Romantica Wedding

This Casa Romantica wedding was one of the highlights of 2019! Cheryl and Drew married on a warm summer day at the historic cultural center overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Family and friends gathered with the couple alfresco-style and celebrated late into the night.

Cheryl donned a Galia Lahav dress with a plunging neckline and open back, crocheted with antique lace. In addition, she paired the dress with cream heels from Jimmy Choo. Cheryl’s bridesmaids wore an assortment of ivory dresses complimented by bouquets filled with palms, white roses, and greenery.

First Look & Ceremony

Cheryl and Drew chose to have a first look in the property’s courtyard before the ceremony. Drew welcomed his bride-to-be with tears of joy and open arms. Following the first look, we headed to the front of the property to meet the rest of the bridal party. We utilized the classic keyhole door and terracotta roof as our backdrop. Guests soon began to arrive so Cheryl tucked herself away, and once everyone was seated and in place, the ceremony soon began. Cheryl was escorted down the aisle by both her mother and father while Drew eagerly awaited his bride with a smile from ear to ear. The couple exchanged handwritten vows while overlooking the coast.

Reception

After the ceremony, everyone headed indoors for some dancing, fresh oysters, and tropical drinks for cocktail hour. Meanwhile, the reception space in the courtyard was getting finalized by Cortney and her team.  The sweetheart table was adorned with wicker peacock chairs for the bride and groom and set beneath a floral arch. There were long communal guest tables befitted with white florals and gorgeous deep greenery. The place settings were set with green velvet bows and illuminated with candlelight.

Guests looked on in adoration as Cheryl and Drew enjoyed their first dance in the warm sunlight of the afternoon. Cheryl loved every minute of Drew’s signature dance moves.

Family and friends gave heartfelt speeches during dinner.

Portraits at Golden Hour

We headed out for the last few minutes of daylight to capture portraits after dinner ended. Cheryl and Drew have such natural, palpable chemistry that photographing them is a breeze! They embraced one another during their first sunset together as husband and wife.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Planning | Courtney Helaine Weddings 

Venue | Casa Romantica

Videography | Memory Machine Films

Catering | Sundried Tomato Bistro

DJ | Vox DJ’s

Dress | Galia Lahav

Bride’s Shoes | Jimmy Choo

Film Lab | Indie Film Lab

Switzer Farm Wedding in Westport | Jennifer + Andrew

Switzer Farm Wedding

You need to drop what you’re doing and come take a peek at this gorgeous Switzer Farm wedding. This newly opened venue is located in Westport, CA, and made for the perfect backdrop for Jen and Andrew’s wedding day. The house was originally built in 1884 by the Switzer brothers and was restored in 2015. Before the renovation, world-renowned photographer Ansel Adams actually photographed the property in 1964! The property overlooks the Mendocino Coast and would be a dream for any couple looking for a unique venue.

We flew up for the weekend to document the festivities. After seeing their wedding photos below, we have no doubt you’ll want a coastal wedding as well!

Getting Ready

Jen and Andrew rented out the entire property for the weekend. Their bridal party stayed on-site and enjoyed the in-house chef and got ready alongside them on the wedding day. While Andrew and his groomsmen prepared downstairs, Jen and her bridesmaids were getting pampered in the upstairs suite. All of the ladies toasted Jen on marrying Andrew and Even their three dogs were included on the wedding day. After Jen finished with hair and makeup she slipped into her dress for portraits. Her mom was by her side to assist and capture some sweet moments in the process.

Ceremony

The ceremony was held on the property’s lawn overlooking the cliffs and the Pacific Ocean. Floral arrangements composed of pampas grass, spray roses, and fountain grass lined the aisle way. There was a flower-adorned wooden arbor at the altar for Jen and Andrew to stand under that framed the coastal rocks perfectly. Soon after the guests arrived, they were ushered down the hillside to their seats. Jen was walked down by her mom and Andrew was accompanied by his pup. After a heartfelt exchange of vows, the couple sealed their marriage with a kiss. Soon after, they made their way down the aisle with their dog in tow as their guests cheered them on.

Cocktail Hour

Guests made their way back up to the house for cocktail hour and to enjoy the sunset. Fresh oysters and handmade signature cocktails were served for everyone to enjoy. The most inviting lounge area was designed in the lower courtyard located beneath the main deck. While heading over to the lounge area with drinks and appetizers in hand, everyone stopped off at the welcome table to write in Jen + Andrew’s guest book.

Reception

Following cocktail hour, the reception space on the main lawn was opened to all the guests. Dinner was set to be served at an alfresco dining space beneath the stars. The tables were decorated with soft blue hues and gilded silverware. Loose blooms and floral centerpieces could be found throughout. Alongside the floral arrangements were the guests’ place settings written on agate. The sweetheart table sat at the head of the lawn surrounded by pampas grasses, overlooking the guests.

Guests soon made their way to their seats and the bridal party was about to make their grand entrance. Everyone stood, cheering on Jen and Andrew as they made their way to the dance floor. The two shared their first dance as husband and wife with views of the sunset over the Pacific. Meanwhile, their closest friends and family watched with adoration as the couple swayed, spun, and dipped one another.

Sunset Romantics

We absconded for a few minutes to capture a few more portraits before the sunset. We visited the home’s garden and captured the pair as they walked the property. After visiting the lounge area down in the courtyard, we headed back to the reception for dinner and a night full of dancing.

Guests raised their glasses and toasted one another during the speeches for the couple.
Jen and Andrew served one another bites of wedding cake while laughing and dancing into the night.

 Photography | Alex W Photography

Planning | Two Roads Event Co. 

Venue | Switzer Farm

Florals | Little Boy Flowers

Hair + Makeup | Megan Cary Artistry

Video | FonD Productions

Band | Lucky Devils Band

DJ | All Ears

Rentals | Bright Event Rentals

Film Lab | Indie Film Lab