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

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

Sagamore Resort Wedding in Bolton Landing, New York

Sagamore Resort Wedding in Bolton Landing

We recently flew out to upstate New York to photograph our first luxury Sagamore Resort wedding. Nestled deep in the Adirondacks, this sprawling venue opened its doors in 1883 and overlooks beautiful Lake George. In addition to the wedding weekend festivities, guests enjoyed incomparable lake views, fine dining, and unparalleled hospitality from the staff.

Getting Ready

Adam and Joyce wed on a beautiful summer day in June in front of all of their closest friends and family. Joyce got ready in a cabin on the historic property surrounded by her bridesmaids and with her mom by her side. With mimosas in hand and hip-hop playing on the stereo, everyone was in great spirits. Adam prepared with his groomsmen in the main building of the Sagamore before heading off to see his bride-to-be.

After everyone was dressed and ready for the day, we headed out to begin taking photos. Joyce and Adam met on the rooftop balcony of the hotel. It offered 180-degree views of Lake George and was the perfect setting for their first look. Looking out from the balcony, one could see multiple islands on the lake and the entire hotel property laid out before them. The wedding party and family gathered by the windows to watch the couple embrace one another with hugs and kisses of excitement. Afterward, everyone gathered to capture the wedding party and family photos.

Ceremony

Guests were guided to their seats overlooking the lake for the ceremony. Hundreds of pink roses and white hydrangeas lined the aisle that led up to a gorgeous seven-foot-tall floral arch. Handwritten vows were exchanged between Joyce and Adam, and there was no shortage of teary eyes in the audience. The couple was showered with rose petals after they said “I do” and recessed back down the aisle.

Cocktail Hour

After the ceremony, guests headed to the main lawn where they enjoyed fresh hors d’oeuvres and handmade cocktails. All of Joyce and Adam’s immediate family met inside for a private Chinese tea ceremony. Following the tea ceremony, everyone headed down to the lake to finish family photos and capture couples portraits. The light was just perfect, so we made sure to stop at multiple locations around the property to capture a variety of looks and take advantage of the elevated landscape.

Reception

After cocktail hour, everyone was ushered inside a tent overlooking the lake for the reception. Family and friends welcomed the newly married couple with cheers. Family and friends made heartfelt speeches, and everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner while sound of rain danced on the roof of the tent. Afterward, guests danced the night away to a live band in celebration of Joyce and Adam. Everyone in attendance enjoyed dessert, cocktails, and a photo booth to remember the evening.

Photography | Alex W Photography
Venue | Sagamore Resort
Florals | Blooms For Rooms
Rentals | Total Events
Video | I Do Films
HMUA | Miss Harlequin
Band | Sound Society
Cake | Aram Cake Boutique
Photo Booth | Ebabil Films
Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab

Kaupulehu Beach Club Hawaii Wedding | Camille + David

Kaupulehu Beach Club Hawaii Wedding

At the end of October, we flew to the big island of Hawaii to photograph an absolutely stunning wedding at the Kaupulehu Beach Club just outside of Kona. Camille Grammer (cast member of Bravo’s Real Housewives of Beverly Hills) tied the knot with her fiancé David on a beautiful Saturday evening overlooking a black sand beach. 

Getting Ready

We met Camille in the morning at her house overlooking the ocean where she and all of her bridesmaids got ready. Ricardo Ferrise provided hair and makeup to Camille and all of her ladies. A dear friend and fashion designer named Malan Breton created the custom gown that was waiting for us when we arrived. He designed a two-piece gown with a detachable train and delicate floral details throughout. 

Reception

Everyone headed inside the massive tent to start the reception’s festivities once the sun had set. By this time, the property had a magical glow from all the surrounding tiki torches. Hundreds of garlands of local foliage and florals were seen throughout, exuding the Polynesian theme of the day. Long garlands of white orchids decorated Camille and David’s chairs. Couches with floral accents were provided for the guests to lounge during the festivities. Guests were served authentic Hawaiian dishes for dinner and Polynesian entertainment was provided throughout the night. Everyone absolutely loved the hula dancers and fire spinners. 

Later in the evening, Camille and David danced with their parents while guests watched in admiration.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Planning | Hawaii Creative Beauty

Hair and Makeup | Ricardo Ferrise

Videography | TMB Video

Bride’s Gown | Malan Breton

Groom’s Suit | Malan Breton

Wardrobe Styling | Montgomery Frazier

Bride’s Heels | Giuseppi Zanetti

Groom’s Shoes | Salvatore Ferragamo

As seen in PEOPLE Magazine and Magnolia Rouge. 

 

 

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

Ethereal Open Air Resort Wedding Escondido | Amanda + Jarrod

There’s something special about photographing a friends wedding. Beyond that, a friend who is an admirable photographer. There’s no greater compliment than that. When Jarrod and Amanda reached out to photographer their Ethereal Open Air Resort Wedding, the answer was easy. Of course!

Aside from the fact that these two are our friends, they are incredibly good people. Being around them is always a joy. Their love is apparent in everything they do. And you truly never grow tired of how silly they are.

Jarrod and Amanda’s history stretches back to the good ‘ole college days. They met at the University of Arizona at a Christmas Party. Jarrod, came dressed in his best, as an elf. This is a moment they still share with others as a found beginning of their love. Fast-forward 5-years, Jarrod is down on one-knee vowing his love forever.

Funny enough, the first time Jarrod and I ever met each other was at the Heck Yea photography retreat hosted in Joshua Tree. Jarrod and I were assigned to be roommates and we hit it right off from the start. It was the most wonderful news that after becoming photo buddies and fast friends that Jarrod and Amanda asked if I would photograph their wedding for them. It seemed very fitting that to document their engagement we headed back to J Tree to make it official with an desert engagement session.

I met with Amanda and her bridesmaids in the bridal suite of Ethereal Resort. This room was right out of a fairytale. It was filled with lots of natural light, had beautifully delicate details throughout, and had the coolest swinging bed suspended from the ceiling. After everyone was dressed Amanda and I headed out to meet Jarrod at the Redwood tree house for the first look. After kisses, hugs, and a few tears we met up with the bridal party for portraits. The bridesmaids wore a variation of floor length blush dresses and the groomsmen donned navy suits.

Before the ceremony began the family greeted us outside of the church for photos. Once the guests began arriving from the shuttles Amanda and Jarrod were whisked away to hide while everyone took their places. The church glowed from all of the candlelight that could be seen from the outside. The Dainty Lion designed a beautiful floral backdrop that hung behind the altar. As Amanda walked down the aisle she was accompanied by a live performance from Kelley Jakle (ass seen in Pitch Perfect). After vows were exchanged, and a kiss was shared, Jarrod and Amanda were offically husband and wife!

Guests then proceeded out to the main lawn where cocktail hour was being held. Jarrod and Amanda pulled out all of the stops for their guests. They had giant beer pong, corn hole, and even a vintage Volkswagen van photo booth for everyone to enjoy.

As the sun faded away, and the day turned into night, the guests were escorted to the reception. A gorgeous al fresco dining experience awaited them. Communal tables were adorned with florals and candles. Marketplace lighting elegantly draped over the tables providing a beautiful combination with the candles.

Their friends and family shared heartfelt, and quite hilarious, speeches. Sharing fond moments of the couple and past life experiences brought joy to everyone. There wasn’t a single person without a smile on their face. This was the exact wedding I envisioned they’d have.

After an unbelievable dinner, we made our way to the dessert table. Filled with treats from Sweet Cheeks and a beautiful wedding cake. The cake was cut and treats were enjoyed by all. Que, dancing!

Keep scrolling to see more images from this gorgeous Ethereal Open Air Resort wedding.

Photography | Alex W Photography
Florals | The Dainty Lion
Hairstylist | Blush & Adore
MUA | 77 Cosmetics
Cake | Sweet Cheeks
Rentals | Events by Lift
Print Rentals | Four Things Paper
Venue | Ethereal Open Air Resort
DJ | San Diego Party Time DJ’s
Video | Stockham Media
Vocals | Kelley Jakle
Photo Bus | SD Photo Bus
Bride’s Heels | Badgley Mischka
Ring Box | The Mrs. Box
Film | Negative Lab

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