Erin + Anthony’s Wedding on the Southern California Coast

When it comes to destination weddings, a place like La Jolla is hard to beat. When Erin + Anthony decided to return to her college town from their new home in Chicago to tie the knot, they knew exactly what venues would capture the essence of their dream wedding.

La Valencia Hotel provided a fairy-tale setting for Erin and her girls to prepare for the big day. 

Yep, that’s a fork. Those little buttons can be hard to fasten! 

When you’re doing a destination wedding, you know your loved ones are making a sacrifice to get there. It’s super cool when couples have little welcome bags for their guests, showing their appreciation for their having come all that way to celebrate with them.

We love nostalgic touches. Erin’s mom had sewn a little bunny from her childhood blankie into her dress hem. Too precious!  Anthony, by the way, proposed on Easter weekend of last year.

The leading lady on her balcony, ready for her prince.

While a young dreamer looks on.

Anthony, meanwhile, was preparing to see his bride.

Erin looked amazing.  A nice departure from the usual lawyer attire she has wear in the courtroom.

Even the littles need to carbo-load for the big show!

The Big Reveal! Check out Anthony’s expression (and reverse hand-grab) as he waits for their First Look!

These are always the most genuine photos!

This wedding party was an impressive crew. They brought style and ‘tude!

There’s always time in the day for a laugh with Mom.

The flowers were designed by our talented friend, Jennifer, of Third Bloom.

The ceremony took place at Mary, Star of the Sea just down the street from La Valencia.

It was like a reunion for this awesome group of friends, many of whose weddings and important events we’ve been privileged to capture!

Here comes the bride… Friends and family were involved in the ceremony, which we love.

They’re beaming, right?

Did someone say, “Party Bus?”

We took some time during the day to check out Erin’s old haunt– the track at UCSD where she ran during her college days.

The newlyweds had the wedding party laughing.

And they returned the favor.

The couple’s tireless coordinator, Amy from First Comes Love, was back at George’s constructing a gorgeous– and did we mention delicious?– reception for them.

Everyone was catching up and having a good time at the cocktail hour.

Erin + Anthony, meanwhile, let us get some great shots of them overlooking La Jolla Shores.

Time to party!

DJ Bill Calhoun announced the couple’s “kissing menu,” which was a really fun touch. Want to see the new couple kiss? You’ll have to do something on the menu, like perform a karaoke song!

Dinner and a show!

As sunset lingered, we snuck out for a few snaps next to the mermaid statue overlooking La Jolla Cove. 

Gotta love well-prepared toasts. A little ribbing of the groom in good fun.  Love everyone’s expressions. Twisting with dad.

Sweetcheeks Baking provided this classic little cake.  They always do a great job!

We were so stoked to reunite with all these great folks, and join them for a picture to commemorate yet another amazing event! Thank you, Erin + Anthony, for continuing the tradition and allowing us to be included in your party!