This was a wedding of a lifetime, not just because it was fit for royalty but because it was for one of my dear friends, Chanel Leavitt Johnson. I’ve taken her photos over the years and it has grown into a friendship. Sometimes it is just so wild to think where my little business has taken me and the lasting friendships I’ve made along the way. I helped her select vendors, prayed over her, and cheered her on throughout this wedding planning process. They were able to pull off a multiple six-figure wedding, in California and abroad, in under six months. That’s a feat! Everything turned out beautifully!

The wedding festivities began at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar (yes, there is a space between Delmar for Del Mar, California). Chanel’s father always envisioned one of his daughters getting married at The Grand. It is immaculate. Even the bathrooms have undergone seven-figure improvements recently. From the grand staircases, marble, chandeliers, and spa, The Fairmont is the epitome of luxury. The Grand Del Mar restaurant, The Addison, is San Diego’s first three-star Michelin restaurant. I think out of all the wedding events, they served the best food by far! The steak melted in your mouth like butter and my personal favorite was the mushroom ravioli.

What touched me, is that the bride’s father, David Leavitt, wanted the best of the best for his princess. He set the standard for how his daughter should be treated and I have no doubt that Jacob will live up to it. He is patient, kind, brave, and hardworking. Chanel is her best and smiles brightest when he is around. David styled Chanel’s high-end jewelry and gowns. Many from exclusive collections as well as family heirlooms. I love that Jacob, a Marine, wore his dress blues! This wedding day was what fairytales are made of!

I love the Fairmont Grand Del Mar suites. The bride got ready facing this beautiful terrace. Her mom helped adorn her diamond tiara in front of a beautiful mirror.

The Fairmont Grand Del Mar was the legal ceremony and small dinner before heading to Paris to be sealed and then celebrating in Chateau Challain.

First look before the wedding! The bride’s family gifted the groom a beautiful Rolex that matched hers!

We snuck away to the Del Mar dog beach for some cliff and beach photos before the ceremony.

Then we had a first look with her parents before walking down the aisle. We had to get a few photos with the Rolls Royce as well!

The stunning ceremony set up! Chanel entered to Bridgerton’s string version of “Wildest Dreams” by Taylor Swift. At the pause, the audience stood and turned to see her for the first time. It was a magical moment!

The ceremony took place on the Aria Lawn, then cocktail hour on the Terrace and dinner in the Manchester Salon. You can check out more info on The Fairmont Grand Del Mar weddings > https://www.granddelmar.com/gather/weddings/

Congratulations you two! Thank you so much for letting me capture this special day. I’m so honored to know you both and wish you all the joy in the world. Your wedding was legendary!

Thank you to the vendors that made this day possible:

If you’re looking for a wedding photographer, please contact me ttps://kacilou.com