Transport to european oasis and be engulfed in a romantic setting at The Westgate Hotel in downtown San Diego. This historic hotel was inspired by the beautiful Palace of Versailles in France. It sits just outside of Gaslamp but you feel like you are a world away when you enter. From the massive chandeliers to the charming wallpaper, you are sure to have an enchanting event.

Marissa and James wanted a stunning, traditional Italian wedding… and that’s exactly what they got. This lovely February morning started off with special moments between the bridesmaids getting ready and the groom attending to every detail. I loved seeing the bride and groom have intimate moments with their family members throughout the day!

After the ladies got ready it was time to show off their gorgeous gowns! The bridesmaids floor length black dresses brought such an elegance to the wedding. Marissa’s wedding dress was show stopping. I adored the bow that hung in the back and the dramatic train. Mike, from Mr. Floral and Events created the most lovely bouquets. The brides all white bouquet paired perfectly with her glamorous dress.

Continuing with the all black attire, the boys looked handsome in their tuxedos. How fun are these groomsmen photos! They had such a good time taking these photos and that’s what I hope for all my couples on their wedding day. I want you to enjoy every moment. So bring out the sunglasses and fun socks and have a good time with it boys!

Their ceremony took place at Our Lady of the Rosary, just a few minutes away from The Westgate Hotel. These precious moments of the bride and her dad walking her down the aisle was the perfect start to a special wedding ceremony.

Our Lady of the Rosary was built by Italian Americans in the San Diego area in 1923. This significant history sat closely to their Italian roots. A traditional catholic mass followed as guests were surrounded by its beauty.

Theres’s no better way to end a wedding ceremony than by getting picked up in a classic Rolls Royce. Champagne was popped and the happy newlyweds toasted to their new beginning. The all white classic car took them to take sunset photos and eventually back to The Westgate.

Wondering if you want to do sunset photos? The answer is YES! Sneak away for a few minutes and get these incredible shots. Not only will you get some gorgeous photos but you’ll get a moment to be together and enjoy each other away from the chaos. The day is about you two after all and it’s important to focus on each other.

As the happy couple took sunset photos, guests arrived back at The Westgate for cocktail hour. They enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvre’s with a charming view of the downtown area.

The Westgate Hotel already has a stunning ballroom, but our incredible florist really brought it to life. He covered the room with glimmering candles and lush white florals. The design embodied a timeless, elegant event.

Some of my favorite shots of the evening is of this fabulous champagne tower! The wedding party and couple had their grand entrance and started off the reception with a champagne pour. (Now that’s how you get the party started!) They all toasted and dinner was served shortly after.

The reception portion of the evening was filled with so much love and laughs. You could really tell the couple and their guests were having the time of their lives.

This phenomenal 3 tiered wedding cake was the epitome of a classic, Italian wedding! In addition to its beauty, it was also quite tasty!

And we can’t forget the grand march! This fun Italian tradition took place right before they cut the cake. Everyone lined up and danced in and out of the ballroom. The best dance moves were brought out as traditional Italian music played in the background.

Venue: The Westgtate Hotel | Photographer: Morgan Mccanne Photo | Planner: Serene Events and Design | Florist: Mr. Floral & Events | Rolls Royce: Rolls Livery Service | Rentals: Abbey Party Rentals | DJ: Complete Weddings & Events | Hair: Kaelyn Arballo Hair | Makeup: Karly Ann Glam | Cake: European Cake Gallery | Church: Our Lady of the Rosary