A Beautiful Thanksgiving Weekend Wedding in Newport Beach | Family, Tradition & Elegance
A Thanksgiving Weekend Wedding to Remember in Newport Beach
This past Thanksgiving weekend, our family celebrated a truly unforgettable moment as my daughter said "I do" to the love of her life. The ceremony took place at the beautiful St. John Vianney Church on Balboa Island in Newport Beach, California. The church, with its charming coastal vibe and stunning architecture, set the perfect backdrop for this special occasion.
The bride looked absolutely radiant in her fitted, off-the-shoulder gown, a perfect blend of elegance and timeless beauty. As she walked down the aisle, she truly took everyone’s breath away. Her sister, the Maid of Honor, was equally stunning in her navy blue gown, which complemented the bride’s look flawlessly. As a meaningful touch, the bride's bouquet was tied with a delicate light blue ribbon, with a vintage locket attached. The locket had once belonged to the bride's great-great-grandmother, a cherished heirloom passed down through generations, adding an extra layer of love and history to the celebration.
The groom, looking dashing in his suit, with Blackwatch plaid jacket, wore the bride's great-grandfather's cufflinks and watch—a beautiful tribute to the generations before them. It was clear that every detail had been thoughtfully chosen to honor family traditions.
The day began at the Balboa Bay Club, where the bride, her mother, her sister, and her cousin got ready together. Surrounded by family, there was an atmosphere of love and excitement as they shared those precious pre-wedding moments.
After the ceremony, the newlyweds drove away from the church in a stunning vintage Porsche, adorned with a "Just Married" sign, floral garlands and ribbons. The sight of them driving off in the Porsche was met with smiles and applause as a crowd had gathered outside the church to watch the couple’s joyful departure. The car added a touch of glamour and timelessness to the event, making the moment even more magical. It was such a hit that friends and residents of Balboa Island were still talking about the famous Porsche the following week!
Their next stop was a scenic 30-minute cruise around the harbor on a beautifully decorated Duffy boat, accompanied by the bride and groom’s siblings. The boat ride was the perfect way to unwind and take in the breathtaking views of Newport Beach before arriving at the Newport Harbor Yacht Club for the reception.
The reception was a winter wonderland inspired by Ralph Lauren’s signature style. The tables were adorned with Blackwatch plaid tablecloths, and the soft glow of candlelight created a warm, intimate ambiance. Frank Sinatra’s timeless music played in the background, setting the mood for a night of celebration and dancing.
One of the most touching moments of the evening came when the groom surprised everyone with a special dance with the bride’s grandmother. It was a moment of pure emotion, as the family watched the two share a beautiful, heartfelt dance—something no one expected but will certainly be remembered.
The toasts were incredibly sweet, with heartfelt words from family. A few tears were shed when the bride dedicated her bouquet and honored her mother with an incredibly moving toast. It was a moment that encapsulated the love and bond they share, leaving everyone feeling deeply touched.
As the night drew to a close, a patriotic finale unfolded. American flags were passed out, and the DJ played Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA.” The music brought everyone to the dance floor, and with flags in hand, everyone sang proudly at the top of their lungs, waving the flags with joy and patriotism.
From the heartfelt ceremony to the stunning reception, it was a wedding filled with love, tradition, and a sense of timeless elegance. It was a day that will forever hold a special place in our hearts, and we couldn’t be more thrilled for the newlyweds as they embark on this beautiful journey together.
Credits:
Photographer: Lua de Andrade Photography
Wedding Coordinator: Floraltique
Wedding Dress: The White Dress
Church: St. John Vianney
Reception: Newport Harbor Yacht Club