For couples dreaming of an Italian wedding without leaving the Golden State, Sophia and Collin’s San Juan Capistrano Mission Wedding offers perfect inspiration—showcasing how to blend Old World charm with breezy SoCal energy. Sophia and Collin’s love story began in the romantic city of Florence, Italy. Their whirlwind romance, steeped in the charm of a bygone era, was punctuated with art, delicious food, and long walks along the Arno River’s cobblestone paths. Their love came full circle with their Tuscan-inspired wedding right here in Southern California.
The celebration began at the historic San Juan Capistrano Mission, a breathtaking venue featuring idyllic gardens, mission ruins, and European architecture at every turn. The Catholic basilica, with its curved architecture and warm, gold-rimmed altar, provided the perfect backdrop for their heartfelt ceremony.
Excitement filled the air as guests took their seats and bridesmaids made their way down the aisle. Sophia’s niece, the flower girl, carefully spread petals. These quiet, intimate moments before the bride enters make time stand still.
Tears brimmed. Laughter bubbled.
Throughout the ceremony, Collin stole glances at his bride as the priest blessed their marriage sacrament—a holy union, finally together, forever.
Outside the church, a scene of pure magic unfolded. Friends and family gathered around the newlyweds, enveloping them in hugs, kisses, and well-wishes. It’s in these spontaneous, candid, emotion-filled moments that make wedding photography truly timeless. Nothing conjured. Everything real.
After the ceremony, we utilized the Mission’s stunning Tuscan-inspired gardens for portraits. From rustic stone walls to lush greenery and show-stopping silhouettes with angular lighting, two words come to mind: chef’s kiss.
And lest we forget: Obsessed would be an understatement for Sophia and Collin’s fashion-forward, en vogue wedding attire style. Sophia’s gown, with clean lines and a modern silhouette, beautifully juxtaposed the historic setting. And Collin’s tailored suit, with subtle nods to Italian styling, perfectly complemented their European love story.
As we moved through the gardens, I was struck with how tender they were with each other. Collin’s loving gaze when Sophia wasn’t looking, her gentle touch as she smoothed his jacket—all bottling up the quiet love they shared. It was a joy to photograph this beginning for them.
While my coverage concluded after their portraits, aligning with their logistical dynamics and priorities, the celebration continued into the evening at the Dana Point yacht club. Cue the gelato, dinner, and dancing!
Sophia and Collin’s wedding beautifully exemplifies why I love what I do. It’s not just about taking pretty pictures—it’s about preserving cherished memories, emotions, and moments for a lifetime.
Tuscan-Inspired Wedding
Sophia & Collin — words can’t describe the absolute joy it was to celebrate your San Juan Capistrano Mission wedding. Thank you for trusting me with your love story. I’ll never forget those fun FaceTime calls as all the details were coming together with the final countdown and the way you two just gazed at each other on the Big Day. I hope the Italian honeymoon was everything you dreamt of and more as you begin this amazing, new thing called Marriage. All my love! Ciao!
If you’re planning your own Tuscan-inspired wedding or, perhaps even a San Juan Capistrano Mission wedding, let’s chat about bringing your photography vision to life. Connect with me via the contact page, and let’s work together to capture the wedding of your dreams with personalized touches and exquisite details. It’s your turn to fall in love all over again.
Whether it’s a Tuscan-inspired celebration like Sophia and Collin’s or a unique vision of your own, my goal remains constant: to capture the true essence of your love story in a way that’s elegant, timeless, and uniquely you. The images from this real wedding truly showcase the beauty of blending cultural elements, creating a wedding day that felt both grand and intimately personal.
CREATIVE PARTNERS
Photographer: Pattengale Photography
Ceremony Venue: Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano
Reception Venue: Dana Point Yacht Club
Videographer: Love Spun Films
Florist: Colette Florals
Beauty: Joanna Dzio
Dress: Wine & Country Bride Boutique
Bridal Shoes: boutique in Florence
Dessert: Gelato Paradiso
Always,
–Tara M
TARA IS AN AWARD-WINNING PHOTOGRAPHER SERVING LUXURY WEDDINGS & COUPLES IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA & WANDERLUST DESTINATIONS.
