La Jolla, CA

VENDORS: venue darlington house / photo lexx creative / coordinator, catering, rentals, decor abbey catering & events / wedding attire alyssa kristin bridal, made with love bridal, gucci / wedding party attire show me your mumu , the black tux / forals emerald and ivy floral / hair & makeup blush and adore / cake & desserts sugar bears sweet provisions / music the wedding entertainment collective

Allison and Chad met through friends in the summer of 2016 and quickly hit it off. Since then, they’ve spent time exploring new cities and beaches together, trying new dinner spots, and finding their next favorite TV show. Through all of this, Allison fell in love with Chad’s heart. She loved how caring he was and that he would do anything he could to help the people he loves, while also making her feel loved and protected. Chad fell in love, too – with how Allison is always able to put a smile on his face no matter what they are doing, and how much she cares about him.

After they got engaged, they knew one thing for certain: they wanted to get married outdoors – ideally somewhere they could slip away to the beach, just like on some of their favorite dates. Darlington House in La Jolla felt like it was made for them. Just one block from the beach, this historic estate offers a charming blend of Mediterranean and Spanish architecture, with lush gardens, vine-covered walls, and elegant courtyards that transport you to another place and time. I love it so much that I chose it as my own wedding venue afterwards!!

Darlington House’s natural, classic beauty provided the perfect backdrop for the timeless theme Allison envisioned for their wedding day. To bring this vision to life, they chose all white florals accented with soft, natural hues—light sage satin dresses for the bridesmaids, timeless black suits for the groomsmen, and dainty blue flowers scattered amongst the white roses and ranunculus. The architecture of the house and the surrounding gardens complemented the minimalistic elegance of the decor, making every photo feel like it belonged in a storybook. There’s a reason this is my favorite venue to shoot at!

They wanted the day to feel heartfelt and classic, but also full of fun—and it absolutely was. Thoughtful touches celebrated family, like Allison wearing her grandmother’s garter and having their future brother-in-law officiate the ceremony in the romantic garden courtyard. After a tearful ceremony and a quick walk to the beach for some playful sunset portraits, the party officially began.

With DJ Brian spinning some crazy mixes (I may have yelled out an “OHHHHHH” at a couple of his transitions!!), the dance floor was packed all night. At one point, guests kicked off their shoes to dance harder, and the couple was even lifted up on chairs during an impromptu moment of celebration. It was a blast and I can only hope to have such a raging dancefloor at my own wedding. From start to finish, it was everything Allison and Chad had dreamed of: a wedding that felt timeless, joyful, and completely them.