Dana and Hunter’s wedding combined timeless elegance, breathtaking ocean views, and heartfelt emotions. It was an extraordinary celebration at a private mansion estate with sweeping 190º views of the Pacific Ocean in Laguna Beach, California.

A Classic Italian Villa-Inspired Hilltop Mansion Venue

Nestled high above the coastline, Villa Como, a mansion private wedding estate at the top of Laguna Beach’s famous hills, provided an unforgettable backdrop for Dana and Hunter’s big day. With panoramic views of the shimmering Pacific Ocean, every moment felt like it belonged in a movie. It was giving major Selling Sunset vibes!

The private estate’s Italian villa-inspired architecture featured grand columns, cascading waterfalls, Murano glass chandeliers, and opulent white marble details. Surrounded by lush gardens on all sides, the property offered picturesque spaces for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. Whether standing in the grand foyer or outside on the terraces, the ocean views were truly mesmerizing.

No wonder so many celebrities and influencers have chosen this venue for their weddings! From the moment I arrived, my jaw dropped—and it stayed that way all night. Villa Como was the perfect setting for a wedding that was equal parts luxurious and heartfelt.

Luxurious and Romantic Details to Swoon Over

Dana and Hunter’s wedding was a design masterpiece. The venue was overflowing with lush white florals, creating a romantic and timeless atmosphere. Murano glass chandeliers sparkled inside the mansion, while mirrored signs outside added a sleek, modern touch.

Tall candles flickered everywhere, casting a cozy glow that made the warm evening feel intimate and magical. The white dance floor elevated the overall aesthetic, perfectly complementing the marble accents throughout.

For their grand exit, Dana and Hunter rode off in a vintage Rolls Royce—a chic and elegant finale to their day. Every detail, from the curated tablescapes to the exquisite floral arrangements, exuded sophistication and luxury.

An Outdoor Oceanview Ceremony Full of Emotion

Dana and Hunter exchanged vows outdoors on the estate’s grassy lawn, with the Pacific Ocean creating a stunning natural backdrop. A string quartet set the perfect tone as Dana made her way down the aisle, radiant and glowing.

Hunter couldn’t hold back tears, and neither could their guests. White florals framed the altar beautifully. Every glance and vow they shared felt charged with love, leaving everyone deeply moved.

Dana and Hunter have a rare gift—they make everyone feel seen, valued, and cared for. By the end of the night, I truly felt like part of their family. When I say this couple is special, I mean it with my whole heart!

A Starlit Reception to Remember

The reception was held on the private estate’s terrace and veranda, where the setting sun and candlelight created a dreamy ambiance. Guests wandered the beautifully landscaped grounds during cocktail hour, enjoying the ocean breeze and golden hour glow.

As dusk turned to night, stars and LED dance floor lights became the only illumination, enhancing the enchanting atmosphere. Water features, including a waterfall flowing into the grand pool, added a serene touch.

Dana and Hunter’s first dance was a highlight of the evening, with all of the guests surrounding the dance floor before taking their seats for dinner. Tables were adorned with white linens, large floral arrangements, and elegant glassware. Guests were treated to a surf-and-turf dinner of filet mignon and lobster, paired with fine wines for a truly elevated culinary experience.

The energy throughout the evening was unmatched! The bride surprised everyone with a fun karaoke moment that had the whole crowd cheering. The cake-cutting photos turned out to be some of my all-time favorites—the energy, the laughter, and the glowing horizon were chef’s kiss for my photographer heart.

The celebration carried on late into the night before guests gathered to send Dana and Hunter off in their Rolls Royce getaway car.

Why This Wedding Was So Special as a Photographer

Dana and Hunter are two of the most kind-hearted, genuine people I’ve ever had the privilege of working with. From the moment I arrived, they welcomed me with open arms, treating me like family. Their warmth and thoughtfulness extended to every guest, vendor, and team member, creating a wedding day that felt as joyful and loving as it was luxurious.

They’re super laid-back, are constantly laughing, and make everyone feel so loved and treasured. As if I didn’t know already, guests kept chatting with me about how the bride and groom have touched their lives and impacted them in a meaningful way.

It’s just so cool to me to capture major life moments like this for people who deserve the world. And people that I connect with so deeply!

The way Dana and Hunter treat others and each other made this my favorite wedding of 2024. Being part of their day was an honor I’ll never forget.

To sum it up:
😘 an absolute dream of a classy, emotional, & luxe reception. With the most sincere couple ever!!!

Villa Como Estate on the top of the hills overlooking the famous Laguna Beach in Southern California.

The bridesmaids got ready in matching pjs!

Bride’s first look with her dad.

Ceremony overlooking the ocean and Laguna Beach. We’re at the top of the hill!

Dana and Hunter, hand-in-hand, exiting their wedding ceremony before their guests.

Guests enjoying cocktail hour by the pool.

The summer sunset was spectacular!

When you enter this Laguna Beach estate from the grand driveway and porte cochere, you walk into this grand foyer, with winding staircases on both sides. But what really grabs your attention is through the arched windows and columns– the ocean view, bright and inviting! When you step out the doors past the grand piano, you’ll enter the terraced balcony featuring a luxe low fountain and and European classic design. The 190º ocean view takes your breath away.

I have never been more obsessed with a cake setup. Just look how stunning that backdrop is, illuminated by candles and the last light of twilight.

Father daughter dance — the bride danced with her dad to kick off the party. It was so sweet and sentimental!

A dress change for the bride, then dancing the night away! Both sets of parents were tearing it up, and the bride gave us a karaoke moment!

Grand exit with LED wands at the end of the night!

Remember that white Rolls Royce from before? This was their getaway car, featuring their very own red carpet and glasses of champagne (with a driver, of course)!

Saying goodbye to their guests!

Need A Luxury (but Fun) Wedding Photographer? Let’s Capture the Magic Together!

If Dana and Hunter’s breathtaking wedding has inspired you, I’d love to help you capture the magic of your own wedding or elopement day. Let’s create romantic, fun, and candid photos that tell your unique love story.

Contact us to start planning your wedding photography experience! Find out more about our style here.

VENDORS:

Private Mansion Venue: Villa Como, Laguna Beach @vipvenues
Planning: Amanda @vipvenues
2nd Coord: Sanya @vipvenues
Photography: @parallel33photography
Content Creation: @toastweddings
Florals: @tustinflorist
Classic Car: @classiclimos
Cake & Desserts: @pacificpatisserieofficial
DJ: @alltheraveentertainment
Caterer: @jasonscateredevents
Musicians: @promenadestringquartet
Makeup/Hair: @beautyandthebeach.oc
Dance Lessons: @firstdanceplace
Dresses: @thebustlebridalboutique @luvbridal @laguna_bridal
Venue Manager: Sean @vipvenues

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