Black Tie Avalon Palm Springs Wedding | Hilary + Adam

Avalon Hotel Palm Springs Wedding | A Luxury Desert Celebration

Set in the heart of the desert, an Avalon Hotel Palm Springs wedding offers a refined balance of mid-century charm and modern luxury.

At the same time, the property blends clean architecture, lush gardens, and mountain views into a setting that feels both elevated and relaxed. Because of this, it has become a standout choice for a Palm Springs wedding.

For couples drawn to design-forward spaces and intentional experiences, the Avalon creates a wedding environment that feels curated from start to finish.

A Luxury Palm Springs Wedding Experience

This celebration unfolded with a sense of ease that defines the most thoughtful weddings.

To begin with, the story started long before the wedding day. During their engagement session, we focused on creating something natural, editorial, and reflective of their dynamic together.
You can view their engagement session here: Joshua Tree Engagement

From there, the wedding day felt like a seamless continuation of that experience.

Instead of rushing between moments, the timeline allowed space for everything to unfold naturally. As a result, each interaction felt genuine and unforced.

This is what defines a luxury Avalon Hotel Palm Springs wedding.

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.

A Garden Ceremony at Avalon Hotel Palm Springs

As the ceremony began, guests gathered within the hotel’s lush courtyard spaces.

Surrounded by layered greenery and soft desert light, the setting created a refined and intimate atmosphere. In addition, the contrast between structured design and organic elements gave the space a distinctly editorial quality.

Because of this balance, every frame felt composed without feeling staged.

For couples considering a Palm Springs garden wedding, the Avalon offers a setting that feels both polished and relaxed.

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.

An Editorial Approach to a Desert Wedding

The design of the day reflected a cohesive and elevated vision.

Rather than relying on excess, every element served a purpose. For example, the color palette remained soft and neutral, while textures added depth and dimension.

Similarly, wardrobe choices complemented the environment, reinforcing a clean and modern aesthetic throughout the day.

This is where a luxury Palm Springs wedding becomes distinct.

Not only in what is included, but also in how everything is intentionally refined.

Why Couples Choose Avalon Hotel for Their Palm Springs Wedding

For couples planning an Avalon Hotel Palm Springs wedding, the appeal is clear.

First, the property offers privacy within a central Palm Springs location.
Additionally, the design reflects a timeless yet modern aesthetic.
Finally, the space allows for a full wedding experience without feeling overly large or impersonal.

Because of this combination, Avalon continues to attract couples who value both design and experience.

It’s not just about the setting.

Instead, it’s about how the setting enhances every moment.

Planning a Wedding at Avalon Hotel Palm Springs

The most compelling Palm Springs weddings are rooted in intention.

From the ceremony layout to the timing of golden hour portraits, each decision shapes the overall experience. As a result, the day feels effortless, even though every detail has been carefully considered.

Whether you’re planning a destination wedding in Palm Springs or a local celebration, the goal remains the same:

To create something elevated, cohesive, and deeply personal.

For Couples Drawn to a Modern Desert Wedding

If you’re looking for a wedding that blends design, atmosphere, and experience, an Avalon Hotel Palm Springs wedding offers a uniquely refined approach.

Ultimately, it provides the space to slow down and be present.

And that is where the most meaningful moments unfold.

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

Sagamore Resort Wedding in Bolton Landing | Joyce + Adam

Sagamore Resort Wedding in Bolton Landing

We recently flew out to upstate New York to photograph our first 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 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 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 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 on the balcony 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 lead up to a gorgeous seven-foot-tall floral arch. Hand-written 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.

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 alongside the sound of pounding rain outside 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. 

 

 

Conti Di San Bonifacio Wedding in Tuscany, Italy | Lily + Steven

Conti Di San Bonifacio Wedding

Prepare yourselves for Lily and Steven’s stunning destination wedding at Conti Di San Bonifacio. This bi-coastal couple did away with a local wedding and instead flew to Italy to tie the knot. They had originally planned for a Summertime wedding in Napa, but with a guest count approaching 300 and temperatures nearing 100, the couple knew that just wasn’t for them.  

Conti Di San Bonifacio winery and resort boasts 360-degree vineyard views and rolling Tuscan hills. This spectacular venue is nestled deep in Tuscan wine country and served as the backdrop for the wedding weekend.

Bridal Party

Lily’s bridesmaids wore a collection of soft pink dresses. Instead of the traditional bouquet, the ladies instead wore delicate flower crowns. Steven’s groomsmen kept it traditional with black suits while he donned a classic black tux.

Portraits

We walked throughout the property during Lily and Steven’s midday portrait session. The overcast weather allowed us to shoot in all directions and really utilize what Conti Di San Bonifacio had to offer. We began at the back of the property where cocktail hour would be held. Lily and Steven walked hand in hand around the pool and made their way down to the main lawn. With the rolling Tuscan countryside in the background, it looked like we were on a movie set. It was absolutely unreal!

Getting Ready

Lily and Steven combined Italian elements and held a traditional Chinese tea ceremony in the morning. They were surrounded by their closest friends and family, some of whom even flew in from China. Afterward, Lily returned to her suite to change into her wedding dress for her first look with Steven. She paired her strapless, open-back dress with a classic pair of nude Louboutin heels. The bridesmaids chose to forgo the traditional bouquet and were adorned with flower crowns.

Bridal Bouquet

Lilly’s traditional bouquet was composed of lush greenery and white roses and was held together with a long white ribbon.

Cheers

While the ladies got ready, Steven and his groomsmen enjoyed a shot of some Hibiki whiskey. After some liquid courage, the guys headed over to the pool to get in a quick dunk and cool off.

Ceremony

While we captured portraits, the floral installation was underway at the ceremony site. Infinito Amore spearheaded the floral design. There was a seven-foot-tall ceremony arch at the end of the aisle composed of pampas, roses, and eucalyptus.

Lily and Steven officially became husband and wife in front of their closest friends and family. Everyone cheered and tossed olive leaves on the couple during their recessional down the aisle.

Just Married

Guests showered Lily and Steven with olive leaves as they made their way back down the aisle as husband and wife.

Cocktail Hour & Reception

Following the ceremony, guests were ushered to cocktail hour poolside. A spread complete with local meats and cheeses, fresh Caprese salad, and delicious homemade sliders awaited everyone.

During cocktail hour, we captured romantic portraits while Lily and Steven savored their just-married sunset together. The ceremony site was converted into the reception space where garlands of greenery and roses adorned the communal tables. Upon sunset, market lights illuminated the dining space with a warm glow. The floral wreath was moved to be the backdrop for the sweetheart table. Lily and Steven’s grand entrance was welcome with cheers from their guests. Everyone soon took their seats to enjoy a candle-lit al fresco dinner. Endless courses of authentic Italian food accompanied by local wine from Conti Di San Bonifacio were served.

End of the Night

Conti Di San Bonifacio served traditional Italian wedding cake and pizza for guests to enjoy as a late-night snack. This wedding was truly one for the books and I was honored to have documented it.

Photographer | Alex W Photography

Venue | Conti Di San Bonifacio

Florals | Infinito Amore

Scanning | Richard Photo Lab

Bride’s heels | Christian Louboutin

As seen in Magnolia Rouge.

Pelican Hill Wedding | Crystal + Ross

Pelican Hill Wedding

I had the pleasure of photographing Crystal and Ross’ beachside Pelican Hill wedding at the beginning of the Summer, and what a gorgeous day it was! You might recognize these two from their engagement session in Malibu at the end of last year. This Houston-based couple knew they wanted to host a destination wedding for all of their guests.

I was thrilled to return to photograph another Pelican Hill wedding, especially since I would be working with such a talented team of vendors to help bring the couple’s vision to life. From the oceanfront views and perfectly kept grounds, this property is truly a dream. Pelican Hill boasts classic stone architecture, tropical greenery, and an iconic rotunda where ceremonies are held.  Just from my initial meeting with Crystal and Ross during their engagement session, I knew they both had a phenomenal sense of style and they seriously brought their A-game on the wedding day!

Details/Getting Ready

Crystal absolutely stunned in a champagne Galia Lahav dress complimented by the most beautiful tiara and a bouquet filled with white and blush roses.  Ross donned a classic black tux and Ralph Lauren shoes alongside a white rose boutonniere. They even brought their Maltese, Matisse to join in with them on the day’s festivities. 

Once Crystal’s mom helped her into her dress we met Ross on the rooftop topiary for their first look. After a sweet embrace with one another, we invited their wedding party to join us for more photos. The ladies all wore blush dresses alongside the groomsmen who rocked classic black tuxes. After the bridal party photos on the roof, we headed over to the ceremony site on the main lawn to capture photos with family

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.

Reception

Guests were soon invited inside for the reception. Gorgeous candle-lit escort mirrors calligraphed by White Lilac. led everyone to their seats. Waiting for everyone inside were shimmering blush and champagne tablecloths, gilded chairs, and tall-stem vase centerpieces. The cake was six-tiered and candlelit with cascading sugar florals. Additionally, the sweetheart table stood in the middle of the room, covered with beautiful floral arrangements. 

Once everyone was seated, Crystal and Ross entered the room for their grand entrance. Guests were smiling from ear to ear and cheering for the newly married couple. After they enjoyed their first dance together and everyone joined in for the horah, dinner was served. Guests had a wonderful energy and danced the night away to one of my favorite live bands- Liquid Blue. An assortment of mini desserts and cake was served along with a do-it-yourself s’ mores bar on the back patio for everyone to enjoy. Following the reception, guests were invited to join the after-party in another location on the property where they enjoyed a live DJ and finger foods. Enjoy the images below from this beachside Pelican Hill wedding!

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

Stanford University Wedding Palo Alto | Mina + Joe

I have been eagerly anticipating Mina + Joe getting married. When I initially spoke with Mina and she told me that she would be having a timeless Stanford wedding I could hardly contain myself! I knew that this was going to be a classic affair. You got to see a glimpse of their impeccable style earlier this year on the blog when I photographed their San Francisco engagement at the Sutro Baths.
What really touched me about these two is how truly in love they are and that their focus of the day was on their family.

As seen in Style Me Pretty.

I spent the morning photographing Mina and her bridesmaids’ gorgeous details in the Garden Court Hotel in Palo Alto. The bright and airy suite was the perfect backdrop for Mina’s accessories. We headed downstairs from the suite to the gorgeous lobby for some bridal party photos. Filled with natural sunlight that poured in from the expansive windows, this was the perfect compliment for such a great-looking group of people.

We soon left the hotel and headed out to Stanford Memorial Court. Boasting classic architecture, warm stone columns, and gorgeous cascading ivy, this set the scene for Mina + Joe’s first look. Their love for one another is so real and palpable that it’s hard not to have a smile on your face when you’re around them. We spent the rest of our time there exploring the campus, taking advantage of the golden natural light.

Their ceremony was held at a local church that had the most gorgeous window behind the altar that exposed the giant redwood trees outside. We took the bridal party there after the “I do’s” for some nature portraits and then returned back to the Stanford Faculty Club for the reception. Mina was carried in Joe’s arms for the grand entrance, by far the best way for a groom to introduce his bride. During dinner, Joe and Mina gave heartfelt speeches to their friends and family and shared a song with their parents on the dance floor. Everyone danced the night away and Mina even managed to surprise Joe with a surprise dance performance of her own. I had the absolute best time with these two and can’t wait to return up North for another Stanford wedding!

Photography | Alex W Photography

Florals | Events By Young
Hair | PS Bridal Makeup
DJ | DJ Raymix
Photobooth | Pix.CO
Ceremony Venue | Valley Presbyterian Church
Reception Venue | Stanford Faculty Club
Scanning | Photovision Prints

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