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23Dec

Ultimate Skybox

By , December 23, 2017 Venue Guide

Highlights of The Ultimate Skybox

Located high above the city on the top floor of East Village’s DiamondView Tower, the Ultimate Skybox (aka the Skybox at DiamondView Tower) is a stunning showcase for some of San Diego’s most breathtaking views. Overlooking Petco Park, the venue sits in the heart of Downtown, within walking distance to many of the area’s popular destinations. When planning your Ultimate Skybox wedding, we suggest reserving time for portraits during the wedding day. This way, we can take incorporate a blend of city and nature landscapes by visiting the Gaslamp District, or cross the Harbor Drive Pedestrian Bridge for waterfront views of the San Diego Bay.

As the day transitions to night, guests can party late into the evening while admiring the venue’s mesmerizing 180-degree view of the glowing Downtown cityscape. The venue’s diverse range of unforgettable views, Metropolitan aesthetic, and proximity to the water make it a fun, unique location for any modern downtown wedding.

Night photo of bride and groom overlooking Petco Park and kissing
Known for its iconic view of Petco Park, the rooftop at the Ultimate Skybox is an intimate location that offers a wide variety of possibilities.
Bride and Groom on rooftop during sunset at the ultimate skybox
For a completely different look, we took Justine and Danny out during sunset to capture the beautiful city, and Point Loma in the distance.
Night portrait of bride and groom looking out over city during wedding reception
Facing north provides a view of the Skybox itself.
Solo portrait of bride and groom alone at the Ultimate Skybox
When photographing, we love utilizing the modern design of the Skybox and often look for ways to incorporate the building itself into images.
Black and white portrait of wedding couple with bridal party in lobby of ultimate skybox
Portrait of wedding couples outside lobby of ultimate skybox in downtown
The building's exterior also offers a dramatic option for photos. For the images above, we used the same location but created two completely different looks by switching focal lengths and shifting our angle.
Stylish black and white portrait of groomsmen walking in garage at the Ultimate Skybox in Downtown
Even on a rainy day, the Skybox has a number of locations to get creative with.
Aerial photo of Petco Park and Downtown San Diego
From the park, we like to head over to Petco Park on days without games. Within walking distance, the park provides lots of natural foliage as a contrast to the Downtown urban landscape in addition to an up close and personal view of Petco.
Bride and groom pretend to play baseball outside field at petco park
Bride and groom surrounded by flowers at Petco Park
Wedding couple pose with bridal party under brick opening at petco park
For a classic dose of San Diego culture, Petco Park is a great location for incorporating your love of the Padres and Downtown. The park within the park also includes a a mix of local restaurants and bars with a cross between modern and classic architecture.
Bride and Groom against wood wall at Petco park
From the park, the streets surrounding the Ultimate Skybox offer a diverse range of colorful backgrounds with a metropolitan feel.
Groom picks up and kisses bride in middle of street by dances in downtown san diego
Wedding couples with modern architecture in downtown san diego
Bride and groom sit laughing on balcony at bar
While walking, we always keep our eyes out for new locations to add a more candid, casual look to things.
Bride and groom embracing in front of grey wall with veil blowing in wind on wedding day
Portrait of bride and groom on their wedding day in downtown san diego
Wide angle photo of two brides embracing on bridge in downtown
Bride kissing groom outside wall at Luce Loft in Downtown San Diego
Individual photo of bride and groom alone on wedding day
With so much condensed into the area, Downtown provides an eclectic mix of classic and modern backdrops for different looks and styles.
Wedding couple with bridal party at sempra energy building
Wedding couple with their bridal party stand outside red doors at fire station in downtown
Bride and Groom kiss in carriage under gaslamp sign in downtown
Just around the corner from the Ultimate Skybox is the iconic Gaslamp Quarter sign and nearby Hilton Gaslamp.
Fun bridal party cheering at the Hilton
Wide angle photo of bride and groom kissing on bridge at hotel
Bride holds onto Groom in front of petco park at harbor street bridge
Wedding couple with bridal party under arches at the convention center
The nearby sculptures at the Convention Center also provide lots of open space and fun, natural props.
The Skybox's proximity to the water also makes it a great location for couples looking for a balance of city and waterfront views.
Bride and bridesmaid overlook balcony and cheer at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront
Exterior photo of wedding reception at the Ultimate Skybox
At night, the Skybox provides a completely different look with new colors and energy.
Night photo of bride and groom on balcony of Ultimate Skybox
Beyond the city lights, the rooftop's balcony features a fireplace which acts asu00a0a fun prop with multiple ways of photographing creatively.
Bride and Groom kiss under fireplace at the Ultimate Skybox
Stylized night portraits of wedding couple at Petco Park in San Diego
Night photo of Bride and Groom walking in rain with umbrella in downtown
Candid portrait of bride and groom with cotton candy
Bride and groom kiss on pedestrian bridge next to petco park
Environmental portrait of bride and groom kissing on stairs at modern library in downtown
same sex wedding couple hold hands and walk on grass at Petco Park
Stylized portrait of bride and groom kissing by blue door in downtown
Outdoor roof ceremony at the Ultimate Skybox

The Ultimate Skybox Wedding Photography

As preferred photographers of The Ultimate Skybox, we photograph weddings here frequently :) If you are considering a wedding at this venue, we are happy to talk over specific photography questions. We also suggest checking out more of our Ultimate Skybox wedding photos.

11Dec

The Westgate Hotel

By , December 11, 2017 Venue Guide

Highlights of the Westgate Hotel

This luxury hotel is a tribute to the anteroom in the Palace of Versailles. The Grand Lobby is noted for its magnificent antiques, crystal chandeliers, and Persian carpets. The hotel is located right in the heart of San Diego, and has plenty to offer in terms of wedding photography, as you will see below.

Both the lobby and the mezzanine level of the hotel are ornately decorated, and joined by a fancy winding staircase. They are the perfect setting for fairytale-like wedding photos. There is an abundance of natural light coming through the elegantly draped windows, and plenty of classic furniture to use as props.

Antique wedding style
The lobby and the mezzanine level of the hotel are the perfect setting for fairytale-like wedding photos. Both floors are ornately decorated and joined by a fancy winding staircase. There is tons of natural light coming through the elegantly draped windows and plenty of classic furniture to use a props.
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
Antique wedding style
Outside the front entrance there is a beautifully lit open space with tropical plants and flowers. The exterior walls of the hotel also provide an interesting background for some photos.
Classic antique wedding
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
Right next to the lobby and adjacent to the grand staircase is this beautiful hidden gem (below). It serves as a hospitality room for the hotel guests but also the ideal spot for few colorful portraits on your wedding day.
Antique wedding style
Westgate San Diego Wedding
As you can imagine the ceremony and reception spaces in the hotel are equally elaborate.
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
The Westgate Hotel Wedding
Antique wedding style
Antique wedding style
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
The 3rd floor of the hotel also has a lot to offer, including nice views of downtown San Diego. There is a large open outdoor space with beautiful plants and fountains that can be ideal for an outdoor wedding.
San Diego wedding
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
Wedding at the Westgate Hotel in San Diego
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
Classic Wedding at the Westgate Hotel
It also great to venture out onto the streets surounding the Hotel. Just a stone throw away are many great urban photo opportunities like the trolley tracks and the spreckles theater to name a few. Also, kitty corner to the Westgate is is the newly invigorated Horton Plaza Park which also has some unforgettable photo locales!
Candid urban wedding photo
Urban Photo at Westgate Hotel
Horton Plaza Park
Trolley San Diego wedding photo
Wedding Venue San Diego
Westgate Hotel Wedding Brunch
Sushi Bar at the Westgate Hotel
Sushi Bar at the Westgate Hotel
The Sunday brunch at the Westgate is one of the most popular brunches in San Diego & many couples have time their weeding around the brunch!!

Westgate Hotel Wedding Photography

We photograph weddings at The Westgate Hotel frequently :) If you are considering a wedding at this venue, we are happy to talk over specific photography questions. We also suggest checking out more of our Westgate Hotel wedding photos.

22Jan

Venue Spotlight | Grand Tradition

By , January 22, 2016 Venues

For those seeking a destination-style wedding just outside of San Diego, one of our favorite spots is the all-inclusive Grand Tradition. We have photographed many weddings at Grand Tradition over the years, and have likely covered every corner :) Located in Fallbrook, CA, the property’s 30 acres of rolling green hills and tropical gardens has something for everyone, including two main venue options onsite. Here are examples of each:

Beverly Mansion

If your style is a bit more traditional and classical, our suggestion is the Beverly Mansion, a classic Victorian estate that overlooks the property’s idyllic heart-shaped lake. Ceremonies at the Beverly Mansion are held outdoors by the gazebo, where couples have the option of being brought out by horse and carriage. It definitely has a storybook feel!

After exchanging vows, guests can dance the night away under massive Swarovski crystal chandeliers. And to end the evening, nothing beats a fun and impressive sparkler grand exit, which is sure to leave your guests in awe :)

View of Beverly Mansion during daytimeBride getting ready at Beverly MansionBridesmaids pose for photo before ceremonyBride and Groom pose outside Beverly MansionCouples celebrate in fun ways on wedding dayBeautiful pink ceremony at Beverly MansionTraditional Bride and GroomCouple arrives in Horse Drawn CarriageBride and Groom kiss at end of ceremonyBride and Groom kiss in fairytale settingBride and Groom Kiss in Front of GateBride and Groom pose by lake at Grand TraditionBride and Groom photographed through hole for creative anglePhoto of Beverly Mansion in early eveningWide angle room photo of Beverly MansionBeautiful and Ornate Crystal ChandelierCouple have fun during First DanceBride and Groom plan fun sparkler exit0001Liseth_Joel_pf

Arbor Terrace

For those seeking a more laid-back, paradise vibe to their day, we recommend the property’s Arbor Terrace and Pavilion. Inspired by the aesthetics of Hana, Hawaii, the Terrace is set against a gorgeous waterfall backdrop, and is adorned with paths covered in beautiful flowers. The Pavilion, where receptions are held, offers features such as the Hospitality Fountain, which is great for photos. There is also a cozy outdoor fireplace, which is a nice comfortable spot to enjoy a relaxing moment with guests.

Bride and Groom kiss in front of waterfall at nightBrides get ready for wedding day by putting on jewelry and dressBride and Groom's First Look between doorway0349Naomi_LukeLovely Ceremony Wedding Details at Grand Tradition0033Susan_JR_pf0037Grace_Daryl_pfCouple pose on Bridge over waterFun and unique creative portraits at Arbor TerraceCouple lean in for kiss by flowing fountainCouple kiss in tropical gardenMarket Lighting at Wedding ReceptionFuscia-themed wedding cake and party favor reception detailsOutdoor fireplace decorated with purple and pink propsCouple kiss at sweetheart table during wedding receptionCollage of Couples enjoying first moments at wedding receptionCouple perform fun dance during wedding receptionGuests breakdancing during wedding reception0069Grace_Daryl_pf

Regardless of which location you choose, you are in for a wonderful wedding experience :) For more of our favorite weddings photographed at Grand Tradition, please visit this link.

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