Topanga Canyon Engagement | Brittany & Ryan

Romantic Topanga Canyon Engagement Session in the Malibu Hills

This Topanga Canyon engagement session in the Malibu Hills captures the sweeping mountain landscapes and golden California light that make Malibu one of the most beautiful places for engagement photos.

We started 2021 with a bang and met with Brittany and Ryan to capture their Topanga Canyon engagement shoot. We tossed ideas around to find something that fit their style as well as the vibe they were for. They rented a cabin for the weekend that doubled as a romantic getaway for Brittany’s birthday and our shoot location.

While the two prepared their outfits and unloaded their pup, Bentley, and I methodically walked the property looking for beautiful light. Brittany stepped out of the cabin, rocking an open-back white satin dress paired with white open-toe heels. Meanwhile, Ryan donned a cuffed-sleeved white button-up, navy trousers, and a pair of deep brown leather chukka boots.

The trick to capturing the natural moments and expressions of my couples is to just let them be themselves. Rather than posing them, I’ve found greater success in giving direction to evoke a certain look or mood. An example of this would be directing a scene in a movie. Giving them certain things to think about or the act they’re performing results in the most organic images. This could be as simple as walking hand-in-hand, leading one another down a path, or pulling each other in tight and whispering something into the other person’s ear that will make them smile.

We found a beautiful Bohemian-styled hammock that was tied between two trees. This made for a great first location and for the two to get comfy in front of the camera. The two have such palpable chemistry that getting them used to my camera took no time at all. Soon after we headed to our next location and kept chasing that beautiful, golden light.

Ending the Evening In Style

Ryan brought a surprise Vespa for the shoot that I knew would make for some stunning shots. We brought it to a hilltop for the last few minutes of sunlight.

This combination of sophisticated, timeless styles just can’t be beaten.

Now that’s what we call a proper exit!

Finally, Bentley got Mom and Dad back from the day’s activities and had them all to himself.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab

Dress | Park and Fifth

Pelican Hill Wedding | Crystal + Ross

Pelican Hill Resort Wedding | Crystal & Ross

Crystal and Ross hosted an elegant Pelican Hill Resort wedding in Newport Beach, one of the most iconic luxury wedding venues in California.

Their celebration blended coastal romance with impeccable style. However, the day also felt intimate and personal.

Many couples choose Pelican Hill Resort for its breathtaking ocean views and classic Italian architecture. Crystal and Ross immediately fell in love with the property.

They planned a destination celebration for family and friends traveling from Houston. As a result, the entire weekend felt like a luxurious coastal getaway.

I first photographed Crystal and Ross during their engagement session in Malibu. Even then, their fashion sense stood out.

Therefore, I knew their Pelican Hill wedding would feature extraordinary style and thoughtful design.

From the oceanfront ceremony to the candlelit reception, every moment reflected timeless elegance.

Fashion-Forward Wedding Style at Pelican Hill

Crystal embraced high fashion on her wedding day.

She wore a champagne Galia Lahav couture gown paired with a crystal tiara. The look felt regal yet modern.

Meanwhile, Ross chose a classic black tuxedo with polished Ralph Lauren shoes.

Their beloved Maltese, Matisse, even joined the celebration. As a result, the morning felt joyful and relaxed.

Crystal carried a bouquet of blush and ivory roses. The soft palette complemented the coastal surroundings beautifully.

However, the most memorable detail was Crystal’s confidence. She truly embodied modern bridal elegance.

First Look Overlooking the Pacific

Crystal’s mother helped her into her gown inside the resort suite. Soon after, we walked to the rooftop garden.

Ross waited among the sculpted topiary overlooking the ocean.

Then Crystal tapped his shoulder.

His reaction said everything.

They shared a quiet embrace while the ocean breeze moved through the gardens. Meanwhile, the resort grounds glowed in the early afternoon light.

Next, the bridal party joined us for portraits.

The bridesmaids wore flowing blush dresses. Meanwhile, the groomsmen wore classic black tuxedos.

Together, the group created a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic.

A Pelican Hill Ceremony with Ocean Views

Family gathered on the main lawn for portraits before the ceremony.

Soon after, guests arrived at the iconic Pelican Hill rotunda lawn.

This ceremony space remains one of the most breathtaking locations in Newport Beach.

The Pacific Ocean stretched endlessly behind the altar. Meanwhile, manicured gardens framed the entire setting.

Crystal walked down the aisle surrounded by warm coastal light.

Then she and Ross exchanged vows beneath elegant floral arrangements.

The moment felt deeply emotional. However, it also felt effortless and joyful.

Guests celebrated the newlyweds as they walked back down the aisle together.

Cocktail Hour

Everyone was escorted to the upper balcony which overlooked the sunset for cocktail hour. They were greeted with salmon and caviar-topped blinis, a cheese and fruit bar, and signature cocktails from the bride and groom. During that time, I headed back down to the ceremony site with Crystal and Ross to capture romantic portraits. While we walked the grounds capturing their photos, the pair got to enjoy their first sunset together as husband and wife.

Sunset Cocktail Hour at Pelican Hill Resort

After the ceremony, guests moved to the upper terrace for cocktail hour.

The balcony overlooks the Pacific Ocean and captures the best sunset views in Newport Beach.

Guests enjoyed salmon blinis topped with caviar. Additionally, a curated cheese and fruit display welcomed everyone.

Signature cocktails honored both the bride and groom.

Meanwhile, Crystal and Ross explored the resort for portraits.

Pelican Hill offers endless photography locations. Stone archways, gardens, and ocean views surround every corner.

Soon, the golden California sunset appeared over the water.

Crystal and Ross paused to enjoy their first sunset as husband and wife.

An Ultra-Luxury Reception Design

Guests soon entered the reception space for dinner and dancing.

Immediately, the room revealed a breathtaking design.

Mirrored escort displays guided guests to their seats. Elegant calligraphy from White Lilac added refined detail.

Inside the ballroom, shimmering blush linens covered each table.

Meanwhile, gilded chairs reflected candlelight throughout the space.

Tall floral centerpieces filled crystal vases. Soft blush roses and ivory blooms created a romantic atmosphere.

At the center of the room, Crystal and Ross’ sweetheart table overflowed with florals.

Nearby, a dramatic six-tier wedding cake featured cascading sugar flowers.

The entire reception reflected the elegance of a Pelican Hill Resort wedding celebration.

Dinner, Dancing, and Celebration

Crystal and Ross made their grand entrance to cheers from their guests.

Soon after, they shared their first dance together.

Then the band Liquid Blue energized the dance floor.

Guests immediately joined the celebration.

Meanwhile, servers presented an assortment of mini desserts and wedding cake.

Outside on the patio, guests discovered a gourmet s’mores bar.

The evening felt festive yet refined.

However, the celebration did not end there.

Guests later moved to an after-party elsewhere on the property. A live DJ kept the energy high late into the night.

Why Pelican Hill Resort Is One of California’s Most Iconic Wedding Venues

Few venues compare to Pelican Hill Resort in Newport Beach.

The property combines classic European architecture with sweeping coastal views.

As a result, couples enjoy a wedding experience that feels both luxurious and relaxed.

The iconic rotunda lawn provides one of the most recognizable ceremony settings in Orange County.

Meanwhile, the resort’s gardens, terraces, and ocean vistas create endless portrait opportunities.

For couples seeking a luxury Pelican Hill wedding photographer, the venue offers cinematic beauty in every direction.

A Luxury Newport Beach Wedding to Remember

Crystal and Ross created an unforgettable Pelican Hill Resort wedding in Newport Beach.

Their celebration blended couture fashion, oceanfront scenery, and exceptional hospitality.

However, the most memorable moments came from their connection with family and friends.

From sunset portraits to the candlelit reception, every detail reflected timeless luxury.

It was truly an honor to document their wedding at one of California’s most extraordinary destinations.

Photography | Alex W Photography
Planning | Events By Katia
Florals | 800 Rose Big
Videography | Marmo Films
Rentals (Cherry Blossoms + Escort Mirrors) | White Lilac Inc.
Musician Quartet | Plaza String Quartet
Rentals (Draping, Chairs, Dance Floor) | Chiavari Chair Rentals
Cake | Cinderella Cake
Live Band | Liquid Blue
Photo Booth | Pixter Photo Booth
Venue | Pelican Hill Resort
Lab | Richard Photo Lab
Bride’s Gown | Galia Lahav
Bride’s Heels | Giuseppe Zanotti

Greystone Mansion Engagement | Joyce + Adam

Greystone Mansion Engagement

Joyce and Adam flew out from New York to capture their session at the historic Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills. Their Greystone Mansion engagement session has everything that makes my heart happy- a stylish couple madly in love, a stunning location, and beautiful light.

Joyce stunned in a gorgeous multicolored Gucci chiffon dress and Adam donned a classic navy suit. The pair complemented one another perfectly. We met down in the courtyard of the grounds and began our session photographing around the fountain. We slowly made our way around the property, making sure to stop by the koi pond and lastly arriving at the back terrace. From there, we enjoyed gorgeous views of downtown Los Angeles and these two had a chance to practice their first dance for the wedding.

After capturing our photos around the mansion, we headed upstairs to the top of the property to visit the iconic cypress walk. Normally, this location is covered with tourists but we had the entire place to ourselves. We walked among the fountains and in between the cypress trees. Joyce and Adam shared lots of laughs and kisses as they walked together hand in hand.

Our last stop on the property was the upper terrace that overlooked the entire grounds. It was there that we visited the stone staircase that ascended to the main lawn.

Look Two

We made time for a quick outfit change before we moved to our next location and then headed out. Joyce’s second look was a gorgeous patterned white dress and tan Louboutin heels. Adam decided to forgo the sports coat and instead wore a checkered button-up and jeans.

Downtown

After leaving the estate, we drove down the hill to chase the remaining minutes of daylight and capture our remaining photos around downtown Beverly Hills. These two were the absolute sweetest and I can’t wait to see them next year when they tie the knot in upstate New York.

Dress | Gucci
Heels | Louboutin
Venue | Greystone Mansion
Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab with Fuji 400H

O’Donnell House Wedding Palm Springs | Chloe + Evan

O’Donnell House Wedding

I had anxiously been awaiting Chloe and Evan’s O’Donnell House wedding all year. I first met with this sweet couple at the beginning of last year. From initially sitting down with them I could feel how infectious their love is for one another. These two now live in North Carolina but met back when they were living in California. We had our first experience shooting together in Glamis for an epic sand dune engagement session. Together we braved 25mph winds, 100+ degree temperatures, and climbing sand dunes the size of buildings. I knew after that experience that this fun-loving couple’s wedding was going to be an absolute blast.

I arrived at Chloe’s Air BnB in the morning where all of the ladies were getting ready. While hair and makeup proceeded I was tucked away in the master bedroom photographing all of Chloe’s beautiful details for the day. Her rose gold color palette for the shoes and jewelry contrasted beautifully with her teal and peach invitation suite and pops of bougainvillea. She even bought Evan an adorable rose gold cactus pin for his suit. Little details on the day of like that are my absolute favorite!

First Look

After all of the finished with hair, makeup, and champagne toasts outside by the pool we all hopped in the van and headed up the hill to meet Evan and his groomsmen at the O’Donnell House. Chloe and Evan greeted each other with a sweet first look on the patio overlooking the hills and downtown Palm Springs. Many kisses, “wows”, and hugs were shared between the two. Afterward, we met up with the bridal party for portraits around the property, and then everyone headed upstairs to relax while guests arrive.

Design Details

While family and friends began to enter I walked the property photographing all of the gorgeous details. The day was planned to perfection by The Events Department and the desert-inspired florals from Hello Gem Events used the most beautiful pastel color palette. By incorporating pops of rose gold, desert florals, and geometric table pieces, this O’Donnell house wedding was like something out of a dream.

Ceremony & Reception

Guests soon began to take their seats at the ceremony site. Everyone’s heads turned as Chloe made her way down the staircase to meet her father. After exchanging rings and vows everyone cheered for Chloe and Evan as they had their first kiss as husband and wife. While everyone made their way to the main courtyard for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres family had their formal photos captured on the upper terrace. Dinner was soon served and guests sat down to dine under the stars. Everyone danced the night away and enjoyed some tasty treats created by Over The Rainbow Desserts.

Continue reading

Pelican Hill Wedding Newport Beach | Melissa & Will

Pelican Hill Wedding | Melissa + Will

Melissa and Will celebrated their elegant Pelican Hill wedding in Newport Beach. The resort is one of Orange County’s top luxury wedding venues.

Their day perfectly blended classic elegance and relaxed coastal charm. The couple wanted every detail to feel personal and unforgettable.

I first met Melissa in the morning at her casita. Meanwhile, the ladies enjoyed hair and makeup while I photographed the wedding details. Everything from her Vera Wang dress to Valentino heels matched the black-tie theme. Additionally, the monogrammed Mrs. Box and invitations complemented the overall design.

First Look and Bridal Party Portraits

After Melissa put on her dress, we headed to the rooftop garden for their first look. Will waited patiently, and their reaction was pure joy.

Following the first look, we photographed the bridal party on the expansive Pelican Hill lawns. Melissa’s bridesmaids wore elegant black gowns, each holding a single white calla lily. Meanwhile, we captured candid moments of laughter and anticipation.

Later, Melissa, Will, and I explored the resort for portraits. The stunning scenery created endless opportunities for timeless, romantic images.

Ceremony at Pelican Hill

Family gathered at the iconic rotunda for formal portraits. Then, Melissa and Will said their vows beneath a handmade chuppah on the main lawn.

Guests watched as the couple exchanged rings surrounded by vibrant gardens. In addition, the setting perfectly reflected the resort’s luxurious yet intimate ambiance.

Immediately following the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktails and fresh sushi on the terrace. Hand-calligraphed escort cards guided everyone to the reception.

Reception and Celebration

The main ballroom, designed by Samantha Scott Events, transformed into a luxurious celebration space. Blush and burgundy florals accented gold tableware, creating warmth and elegance.

Dinner began with heartfelt speeches, followed by the couple’s first dance. Then the band energized the room, and guests celebrated late into the night. In addition, the evening ended with a surprise In-N-Out visit. Everyone enjoyed the ultimate Pelican Hill wedding experience.

Why Pelican Hill is Perfect for Newport Beach Weddings

Pelican Hill Resort offers unmatched privacy and elegance in Newport Beach. Its expansive gardens, coastal views, and classic architecture make it ideal for luxury Orange County weddings.

Moreover, the resort provides a seamless experience from ceremony to reception. Couples can enjoy photo opportunities throughout the property, including gardens, terraces, and iconic rotunda spaces.

For couples seeking a Pelican Hill wedding photographer, this venue delivers cinematic, timeless imagery with ease.

A Luxury Wedding to Remember

Melissa and Will’s day showcased the best of Pelican Hill weddings in Newport Beach. From golden coastal light to exquisite details, every moment reflected romance and joy.

I feel honored to capture such a memorable celebration at one of Orange County’s premier luxury wedding resorts.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Planning | Samantha Scott Events

Florals | The Little Branch

Venue | Pelican Hill Resort

Bride’s Dress | Vera Wang

Bride’s Heels | Valentino

Groom’s Suit | Tom Ford

Groom’s Shoes | Christian Louboutin

Ring Box | The Mrs. Box

Film Lab | Negative Lab