Pala Mesa Wedding: Katy + CJ | Pala Mesa Resort - Fallbrook, CA (12.14.19)
Originally my last wedding of 2019 was set for mid October but thanks to a referral by my fellow photographer friend Heather, Katy and CJ became my last official wedding of 2019. And these two couldn’t have given me a better end to the year.
This was my first time at Pala Mesa Resort and it was seriously a dream venue. Also known for their large golf course, the 205 acre resort is located on the outside portion of Fallbrook and can be seen off the 15 freeway between Escondido (San Diego County) and Temecula (Riverside County). The resort offers a romantic setting for both the ceremony in the lush and green Garden Pavilion and the reception area located outdoors accented by a waterfall and crystal chandeliers.
Upon arriving, everyone was already in full swing getting prepped for the 3:00 pm ceremony. Bridesmaids were in the middle of getting their hair in place by Frannie South and the beautiful bride herself was becoming more and more gorgeous as makeup artist Melody Unique worked her craft. I then met up with the guys in their suite and to sync up with the Videography team, Sonder Liv Studios, on the top of the hill that had a really pretty view overlooking the Garden Pavilion via the balcony. From the first moment I met CJ, he never stopped smiling. He was surrounded by such a great group of guys that all supported him and were extremely respectful and helpful the entire time.
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After CJ read his letter from his bride, it was time for us all to focus on just Katy. Her hair was set and makeup complete and so on went her stunning dress followed by her garter, shoes, jewelry and veil. She was fighting back tears as she stood facing the mirror in her full ensemble that she spent months piecing together.
The majority of the day was overcast but the sun did manage to shine through at some perfect moments. After Katy and CJ said their vows, exchanged rings and had their first kiss, the two got to pull the large rope attached to the bell ringing in their celebration as Husband and Wife. As the two walked hand and hand up the aisle, this was one of those perfect moments when the sun broke through the clouds.
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While guests enjoyed some drinks during cocktail hour, the Mr. and Mrs. were busy with us taking family portraits, full bridal party portraits and their romantics. The thing I loved most about the Pala Mesa Resort was all of the spots available for photos. Like I said before, this place has so much greenery throughout the property that it made their formals even more romantic and beautiful.
After everyone was seated at their assigned tables in the Cliff Terrace, the Bride and Groom were ready to flaunt their stuff during the grand entrance. Immediately going into their first dance followed by dinner, the two finally got a moment to sit and relax a bit while members of the bridal party and the Groom’s father shared their special speeches to the happy couple. Wrapping up our time, the bouquet and garter were tossed, the cake was cut and Katy and CJ joined their guests on the dance floor while Louis White of Xclusive Xperience Entertainment set the mood with his musical selection.
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I can’t wait to see what the future holds for these two. Just like guests, I was happy to be there to celebrate their marriage and to photograph such a lively and devoted couple. Congratulations again Katy and CJ!
Vendors that helped make this day possible:
Venue: Pala Mesa Resort
Photography: Alleen Carmel Photography (Alleen Hughes)
Videography: Sonder Liv Studios
Florals: CC Fine Florals
Bakery: Momma’s Sugar Shack
Hair: Frannie South
MUA: Melody Unigue
DJ/Entertainment: Xclusive Xperience Entertainment (Louis White)
Officiant: #ocweddingvows | Clark Brogger
