Palos Verdes Wedding Venue: Catalina View Gardens

Palos Verdes California Wedding: Catalina View Gardens

Tiffany & Derek’s Dreamy Coastal Celebration

Some weddings feel extra special—not just because of the stunning setting or the heartfelt moments, but because they mark the beginning of something bigger than you realized at the time. Tiffany & Derek’s wedding in Palos Verdes, California, was one of those days for me.

When I photographed their wedding, I had no idea that just a year later, I’d be calling this beautiful place home. Almost exactly one year after their celebration, I find myself writing this blog post from my own space just a few miles from where it all took place. Life has a way of bringing us full circle, and this wedding will always be one that holds a special place in my heart.

Getting Ready with Ocean Views

The day began at Palos Verdes Beach & Athletic Club, a hidden gem nestled along the coastline. With the most brilliant blue sky stretching over the ocean, the morning felt peaceful and full of anticipation. Inside, the atmosphere was relaxed yet buzzing with excitement as everyone got ready. The sound of waves crashing through the open windows set the perfect tone for the day—effortlessly elegant and deeply romantic.

One of my favorite moments from the morning was Derek and his mom seeing each other for the first time all dressed up. The happy tears in their eyes, the way he held her hand—it was such a sweet and emotional moment that reminded me why I love capturing these fleeting memories. Moments like these, where love is felt so deeply, are the ones that truly last.

And then there was Tiffany & Derek’s first look on the balcony of the club. The way Derek turned around, the way Tiffany’s face lit up, the quiet exchange of words that only they could hear—it was one of those moments that felt cinematic, but in the most natural, unforced way. It was just them, fully present with each other, taking in the gravity of the day.

A Vineyard Wedding Overlooking the Pacific

After their first look, we made our way to Catalina View Gardens, a breathtaking venue that more than lives up to its name. If you haven’t heard of it before, let me paint the picture for you—a 25-acre estate with panoramic views of Catalina Island in the distance, rows of lush vineyards, and the vast Pacific Ocean stretching endlessly beyond. On a clear day like Tiffany & Derek’s wedding day, the view is nothing short of magical.

With the sun shining down, a gentle ocean breeze, and their closest loved ones gathered, Tiffany & Derek exchanged vows in a ceremony that felt both deeply intimate and beautifully grand. You could see their love for one another in every glance, in every word, in the way they held each other’s hands just a little tighter. As a photographer, my job is to capture the emotions of the day, and let me tell you—this one was filled with emotion. There were smiles, there were tears, and there was this overwhelming feeling of joy that radiated through every moment.

And then came golden hour.

Right after the ceremony, the sun began its slow descent, casting the most dreamy, golden light over the vineyards. Because Tiffany & Derek chose to do a first look earlier in the day, they were able to fully enjoy cocktail hour with their guests. No stress, no rushing—just soaking in the magic of the moment with a glass of champagne in hand.

As the sun melted into the horizon, we snuck away for a few more portraits, capturing them against that iconic backdrop. These are the moments that feel almost surreal—when everything aligns perfectly, and all you have to do is be present and soak it all in.

A Reception Filled with Joy & Celebration

Since Catalina View Gardens is nestled within a quiet neighborhood, there are certain noise restrictions in place. Tiffany & Derek made the decision to host their reception at Harlyne J. Norris Pavilion, a stunning space that allowed them to dance the night away with all of their friends and family.

And let me tell you—they made the absolute most of it.

The energy of the evening was electric. From heartfelt toasts that had everyone laughing and crying to a packed dance floor that never slowed down, it was clear that these two are deeply loved by the people in their lives. One of my favorite things about weddings is capturing those unscripted, joy-filled moments—the father-daughter dance where they can’t stop laughing, the way the couple sneaks little glances at each other across the room, the way the music takes over, and suddenly everyone is in their own little world, lost in the celebration.

And then came the sweetest ending—Handel’s Ice Cream.

Instead of a traditional wedding cake, Tiffany & Derek opted for something a little different (and totally delicious). As an ice cream lover myself, I can say with full confidence that this was the perfect way to end the night. Guests grabbed their favorite flavors, kept the dance floor alive, and the entire evening felt like one big, joyful celebration of love.

Looking Back

There are weddings that are beautiful, and then there are weddings that are beautiful and deeply meaningful. Tiffany & Derek’s wedding was the kind that felt effortless in the best way—nothing forced, nothing overly staged. Just pure, real love and a day that felt completely true to them.

I often talk about how photography is about more than just capturing pretty pictures—it’s about preserving the fleeting moments that define our lives. Looking back at this wedding, I see not just a stunning celebration but the start of a new chapter—both for Tiffany & Derek and, in an unexpected way, for me as well.

One year ago, I stood here as a visitor, photographing a couple’s most important day. Now, I write this from a place that has become home.

And that? That’s pretty special.

Planning Your Own Dreamy Coastal Wedding?

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels effortless yet elevated, deeply personal yet stunningly beautiful, I’d love to tell your story. Whether it’s in Palos Verdes, across the country, or an international destination, I’m here to capture it all with an editorial yet organic approach. Let’s create something timeless together. Contact me here

Now, scroll down and soak in the magic of Tiffany & Derek’s wedding day—it’s one you won’t want to miss. ✨

Venue: Catalina View Garden

Photography: SB Photographs

Planner: A Signature Wedding

MakeUp: Beauty By Chrissy

Florals: Florals By Sophea

Dress: Bridal Elegance Studio

Rental: Bright Event Rentals SoCal Event Rentals

Suit: Pocket Square Clothing

Cake: Torrance Bakery