On the most southern California coast, Stephanie and Rodrigo beautifully embodied everything cathedral romance meshed with timeless elegance for their San Diego wedding.

We started the morning at the iconic Hotel del Coronado on Coronado island. Coronado island is a peninsula separated from downtown San Diego that still offers those iconic California palms, a perfect destination to get ready at.

Our stunning bride, Stephanie, wore an off-the-shoulder satin gown while her groom Rodrigo complemented her in a classic black suit and bow tie.

Against the rich burgundy bridesmaid dress and black tuxedos, this entire palette felt utterly refined, romantic, and deeply coastal California.

Getting Ready at Hotel del Coronado

The details in both the bridal and groomsmen parties were everything!

Stephanie’s wedding day perfume bottle nestled next to her heels. The soft folds of satin catching the sea light. Her grand lace veil draped across coastal paintings. And of course those last minute makeup touches.

These small details might seem so simple in the moment but as a wedding photographer, these are the images that truly encapsulate the texture of the morning.

Meanwhile, the groom and his groomsmen wore classic black tuxedos and bow ties, looking incredibly sharp against the Coronado views.

The First Looks

Considered some of the most emotional moments of the day before anyone stepped foot inside the church, the bride shared a first look with her father and soon to be husband.

There’s always something incredibly moving about witnessing parents realize, all at once, that the little moments somehow led right here.

These photos undeniably affirm just how special first looks are.

Ceremony Inside Immaculata Catholic Church

Up on the San Diego hills, Immaculata Catholic Church has soaring ceilings, dramatic archways, intricate detailing, and warm light filtering through the cathedral.

The bride walking down the aisle with her father beneath the massive cathedral arches is one of my favorite images from the entire day.

You can feel the reverence and grandeur inside Immaculata Catholic Church, but somehow it’s still deeply intimate.

This is a fantastic option for those looking for that traditional touch for a San Diego beach wedding.

Portraits Along the San Diego Coast

After the ceremony is when we got these bright and light, intimate moments shared amongst the bridal party and guests.

The dark burgundy bridesmaid dresses complemented the bride’s bouquet stunningly.

Not to mention, the sun filtering through the palm tree grove was absolutely beautiful for us! Not a cloud in the sky, and we couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day.

The combination of the historic church architecture, black tuxedos, orchids, satin, and the warm winter light was everything/

This gallery truly encapsulates a day that feels both editorial and intimate.

Thank you to Stephanie and Rodrigo for allowing me to photograph this special day!!!

Why I Love Photographing Weddings in San Diego

San Diego holds a special place in my heart with the palm trees, coastal fog and Spanish-inspired buildings.

Within minutes you can find historical architecture and oceanfront light. This is a prime location on the West Coast for couples that desire coastal touches.

And winter weddings especially hold such understated beauty. Not only are beaches quieter, but the cool evening air paired with softer light during the season creates a dreamy atmosphere.

For couples planning a California wedding that can feel both refined and deeply personal, San Diego offers some of the most beautiful backdrops.

Planning Your Own San Diego Wedding?

Whether you’re saying your vows in historic cathedral, celebrating oceanside beneath the palms, or both, I’d love to help document your day in a way that’s intentional and true to you.

While I am based in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, I am always looking for travel opportunities worldwide!

If you’d like to connect, please click here.

Need more inspiration? Check out my portfolio.

Find me @kenziepellerinphotography for more behind-the-scenes moments!