An Elegant and Chic Wedding in California

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Location: Dana Point, California, USA (ceremony); San Juan Capistrano, California, USA (reception)
Setting: Grassy park with the harbor views; private residence in the backyard
Season: Fall
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
The number of guests: 150
Wedding theme/style: Simple, elegant, modern and chic.

Jenna and Collin met and fell in love at Colorado State University in 2016. Jenna made the first move after she saw Collin at a lacrosse party chatting with their mutual friend and thought he was cute! Jenna insisted her friend introduce her to Collin, and the rest is history. They shared many “firsts” at a local lacrosse house on campus – first-time meeting, first kiss, first lacrosse cocktail party, and many more memories!

When Collin graduated college, he moved back to Orange County, where he is from. Their relationship turned long distance for a little over a year, during which they learned many life lessons and knew that it would all be worth it in the long run!

After Jenna graduated college, she followed Collin out west. She started her journey in her graduate program, and they were finally in the same state again. The two found their footing in their careers, moved to LA, and soon after got engaged! They recently got hitched in late September of this past year. Since being married, the two have honeymooned in Costa Rica and have enjoyed time as newlyweds during the busy holiday season!

The wedding ceremony took place in a picturesque location overlooking the ocean, while the reception was organized at a private residence in the backyard. Jenna reminisces about the moments leading up to the wedding: “I wanted the space to speak for itself as the venues were already so stunning. My mantra has always been ‘less is more.’ Both spaces were very green, lush, and organic, so I stuck with an all-white theme – all white florals, bridesmaids dresses, white linens, neutral decor, etc.”

In crafting the aesthetic tapestry of their wedding, Jenna espoused a philosophy of understated elegance and contemporary sophistication. Embracing a palette of pristine whites and neutral tones, she sought to accentuate the innate splendor of their chosen venues, allowing the natural allure of the surroundings to take center stage.

Drawing from various sources, from social media musings to personal stories, Jenna translated her aspirations into a symphony of harmonious design elements.

The bride’s morning was filled with excitement and anticipation for the upcoming wedding. Jenna spent this morning with her bridesmaids, and their presence filled the occasion with enjoyable conversation and merriment.

Jenna entrusted one of her bridesmaids with the task of her makeup, confident in her ability to bring her vision to life. The result was a glamorous blend of warm tones accentuating Jenna’s features, exuding sophistication and allure while maintaining a sense of understated elegance.

Throughout the entire wedding week, Jenna remained dedicated to the theme of “less is more.” Embracing this mantra, she curated a comprehensive wedding wardrobe encompassing three distinct dresses for the wedding day itself.

Among these dresses, Jenna’s centerpiece was her ceremony gown, a breathtaking creation by Pronovias. Crafted from luxurious silk, it boasted a fitted silhouette, a flowing train, and a captivatingly low back adorned with delicate buttons. Complementing her ensemble were vintage Amina Muaddi shoes featuring clear heels adorned with a silver chain that gracefully encircled her ankle. With her hair styled in a sleek bun reminiscent of icons like Sofia Richie and Hailey Bieber, Jenna adorned her updo with a simple yet regal cathedral-length veil. Her ensemble included sentimental touches, her grandmother’s pinky ring, and a selection of dainty bracelets.

Jenna made a strong impression on her bridesmaids when they saw her in her wedding dress; each couldn’t contain their awe, and their support and emotions were a significant moment for Jenna.

The most memorable moment was her father’s first look at Jenna. He couldn’t hold back tears of joy when he saw her in her wedding attire. A touching moment ensued when her father read a letter to Jenna, which moved her to tears.

Collin and Jenna’s wedding florist was Collin’s aunt, who crafted stunning floral arrangements for their special day, which meant a great deal to the bride and groom. The ceremony took place in a picturesque meadow overlooking the ocean. Instead of a conventional arch, ethereal white flowers seemed to float on transparent pedestals, while wooden chairs complemented the scene, adding to its natural beauty. Showing care for each guest, the couple provided fans and white rose petals to shower the bride and groom after the ceremony.

The wedding ceremony was a special moment filled with warmth, sincerity, and love. As Jenna walked down the aisle to her awaiting beloved, he couldn’t hold back his tears; his bride radiated beauty and grace. Guests became witnesses to beautiful moments as the couple exchanged vows and rings. These heartfelt exchanges left no one indifferent among those present.

After the ceremony, the newlyweds managed to steal away briefly to be alone and exchange personal vows. This moment strengthened their bond and allowed them to savor the realization of the ceremony they had just experienced.

Every moment of this wedding was captured by the talented photographer Lindsey Merri. She portrayed the day’s beauty through her lens without missing a single moment. The warm tones of the photographs transport viewers to a balmy summer day, each picture of the couple a beautiful ode to true love. She captured the fragility and beauty of the bride, as well as the love and elegance of the groom, creating special memories for this lovely couple.

After the ceremony, guests gathered for a cocktail hour to enjoy mingling, delightful appetizers, and beverages. The bride and groom prepared their favorite cocktails for them. Jenna served up her signature Spicy Margarita while Collin offered his twist on the classic Jack Daniel’s with Dr. Pepper.

Majestic palms towered above the magnificent area where the reception was held amidst lush greenery. Rectangular tables, adorned with white tablecloths, with white floral arrangements and candles served as exquisite embellishments. It all appeared sophisticated and refined, just as the bride desired. It was essential to Jenna and Collin that every detail conveyed to the guests how special they were and how much their presence was valued. Therefore, the couple prepared personalized name badges, disposable cameras for the tables, and a photo booth for silly or severe photographs, ensuring each guest felt appreciated and cherished throughout the celebration.

The bride and groom’s entrance at the reception was a special moment. Accompanied by lively music, Collin and Jenna walked out to greet their guests, passing through a unique tunnel formed by their friends. The reception was beautiful, filled with heartfelt conversations and pleasant congratulatory speeches addressed to the newlyweds.

The newlyweds kicked off the evening of dancing by performing their first wedding dance. It was an unforgettable moment that left none of the guests indifferent.

Then came the moment that was especially significant for the parents of the newlyweds: the dance of the daughter with her father and the son with his mother.

The traditional cutting of the wedding cake marked the culmination of the wedding. This moment symbolized the beginning of a beautiful journey together and infused an air of joy and romance into the reception’s atmosphere.

After the central part of the reception, Jenna changed into a more evening-appropriate gown. She shone like a star and looked magnificent in this ensemble. The silk dress with a beautiful back cutout accentuated her slender figure, creating the perfect look for the evening festivities.

Collin and Jenna danced the night away with their guests, savoring every moment of this beautiful evening, which was the perfect culmination of their wonderful wedding.

Advice from couple:

• My only advice in planning a wedding is to be confident in your decisions. I have no doubt there are so many people in your corner. Lean on them. They are there to help you. Delegate. It is so much easier to give people tasks than to be hesitant about decisions. Overall, don’t lose sight of what the day is really about. It is easy to get lost and relish in all the love!