Joanne + John’s Southern California nuptials were the perfect showcase of the bride and groom’s hometown. Complete with a traditional quaint church ceremony and an outdoor reception with a beach view…This is such an elegant wedding! Don’t miss the pretty mix of french antique inspired decor and the most soft ethereal color palette…or my favorite, Joanne’s Monique Lhuillier lace gown, Scarlet. And how about the rich feathery florals?! It’s as if the bride’s pale white bouquet almost mirrors the lace detailing of Joanne’s gown. Just perfect. Enjoy!
Joanne + John | July 6, 2013 | Laguna Beach, CA | Dress Listing: Monique Lhuillier, Scarlet
The Ceremony
As both of our families are devout Presbyterian Christians, we found Laguna Presbyterian Church near our reception venue, at only a 10-minute drive along the coast. I fell in love with the Spanish architecture and the quaint atmosphere of this cute little church in downtown Laguna.
The Reception
John and I met in Shanghai, fell in love in Los Angeles, moved back to Shanghai together as a couple, and got engaged in Paris. As native Angelenos, we knew we wanted a wedding in our hometown. With over 50% of our guests traveling from afar to attend our wedding, we thought it was important for them to experience Southern California at it’s best. We wanted our guests to be able to enjoy dinner outdoors while having a view of the beach, but also not having to worry about noise control restrictions. After looking at numerous hotels up and down the SoCal coast, we fell in love with Club 19 at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort. The outdoor fireplace where the guests would dine, sitting under a wooden roof overhang is what got me. We also didn’t have to worry about noise control, because our guests could dance indoors in the floor-to-ceiling glass enclosed clubhouse.
Joanne’s Dress Search
When I first started my dress search, I knew I wanted a dress that would be perfect for a rustic garden wedding. I also wanted something more form fitting. As soon as I started an online preliminary search of different bridal gowns, Monique Lhuillier’s Scarlet Dress caught my attention. The simple form-fitting silhouette, the ivory lace, and dramatic open back was exactly what I was looking for. I knew I had to try this dress on. When I went into the Monique Lhuillier bridal store, I tried on a few different styles, but ended up still going with my first choice.
How Joanne Felt in Her Wedding Dress
Happy, Comfortable + Beautiful
Joanne Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
I’m not going to be wearing this dress again, so it can either sit in my closet or bring happiness to another bride.
