As a Coronado wedding photographer, I often find myself in awe of the stunning beauty Southern California offers. When Matt and Julia hired me to photograph their timeless wedding at the iconic Hotel Del Coronado, I knew we were about to capture something truly unforgettable. Nestled along the coast of Coronado Island, the Hotel Del Coronado offers a romantic blend of historic charm and oceanfront luxury — perfect for a couple like Matt and Julia, whose love is both classic and vibrant.

Getting Ready Moments with Joy and Calm

The day began in the hotel’s airy suites, where Julia was surrounded by her bridesmaids in soft blue pajamas, laughter echoing through the room as they toasted champagne. Julia wore elegant white pajamas that matched her graceful and poised energy. This peaceful morning was filled with sweet anticipation, setting the tone for the heartfelt moments to come.

Matt got ready with his groomsmen in the Power Plant Room, where he remained calm, collected, and excited to see his future wife. As a Coronado wedding photographer, I always look for those quiet, in-between moments, and this morning was full of them: soft smiles, reassuring hugs, and personal vows tucked safely in pockets.

Special First Looks

Matt and Julia chose to share a private first look before the ceremony in the hotel’s garden. When Matt turned around to see Julia in her gown, his breath caught, and it was as if time paused just for them. These moments were emotional, joyful, and beautifully intimate.

Julia also shared first looks with her dad and her brothers. There wasn’t a dry eye in sight. Her father’s proud tears and her brothers’ tender reactions truly reflected how much love surrounded this couple from the very beginning.

Garden Family Portraits & Ceremony Under the Sun

Before the ceremony, we took family portraits in the lush gardens of the hotel. The greenery and soft floral details added a serene touch, highlighting the warm, familial connections that make wedding days so special.

The ceremony took place in front of the hotel’s iconic red-roofed turret, with rows of white chairs leading up to a beautifully floral-adorned altar. The sun cast a golden glow over the crowd as Julia walked down the aisle with her father to where Matt waited with misty eyes. Their vows, spoken with sincerity and joy, were a perfect reflection of their relationship — deep, respectful, and filled with love.

Joyful Cheers & A Moment Just for Them

After the ceremony, the bridal party raised their glasses in a celebratory cheer—everyone beaming, glasses full of bubbly, joy overflowing. Shortly after, Matt and Julia slipped away for a private moment on the hotel’s wraparound porch. These peaceful moments in the quiet of this Sunday afternoon offered a beautiful contrast to the buzz of the day.

Reception with Golden Light and Glamour

The reception kicked off with a lively cocktail hour and transitioned into a grand entrance that had guests on their feet. Matt and Julia glided into their first dance under twinkling chandeliers and candlelight. From there, Julia shared a sweet and emotional father-daughter dance, followed by Matt’s heartfelt dance with his mom, both moments radiating warmth and connection.

As golden hour hit, we snuck outside for sunset portraits. With the beach in the distance and palms silhouetted against the sky, the images we captured felt cinematic and deeply romantic — some of my favorite photos of the day!

Sweet Moments and a Night to Remember

Back inside, the couple cut their cake surrounded by soft floral centerpieces in peach and blush hues. Toasts from family and friends brought laughter and a few tears, each one filled with admiration and love for Matt and Julia. As the night continued, the dance floor opened up and the celebration came alive. From grandparents to bridesmaids, everyone danced under the glow of the chandeliers, the joy contagious and overflowing.

A Nostalgic Ending

Before the night ended, we returned to the hotel lobby to recreate a few portraits in the exact spot where Matt and Julia had taken their engagement photos with me a few months prior. It was a full-circle moment—one that felt like a beautiful blend of past, present, and future.

The Del — A Dream for Any Coronado Wedding Photographer

Capturing Matt and Julia’s wedding at Hotel Del Coronado reminded me why this venue is such a gem for any Coronado wedding photographer. Its vintage architecture, oceanfront views, and timeless ambiance make it a dream for any couple (and any photographer lucky enough to be there). If you’re planning a destination wedding in Southern California and love the feel of coastal elegance, the Hotel Del is a perfect choice. And if you’re looking for a Coronado wedding photographer who loves chasing golden light and capturing genuine emotion, I’d be honored to tell your story next. Let’s chat about it HERE!

View the full wedding gallery HERE.