Sharon and Dan’s October wedding at Alila Marea in San Diego was an elegant coastal celebration. After twelve beautiful years together, the couple exchanged vows surrounded by their close friends and family.

Thoughtful Details and Elegant Design

Every element of the day was designed with the guest experience in mind. Blue-and-white chinoiserie patterns adorned the stationery, while fresh florals added a romantic touch. From the custom escort display to the table settings, the design combined coastal sophistication with heartfelt meaning. The floral arrangements were a color palette of soft peach and ivory with blue accents. Floral designer Leah Mai created the looks with white and peach Clooney ranunculus, white and peach dahlias, melon X-pression roses, shimmer roses, and light green hydrangea. Layers of geranium and velvet greenery added texture and scent.

October Wedding Ceremony in San Diego

October weddings in San Diego have ideal weather and Sharon and Dan’s special day definitely delivered at Alila Marea. The couple’s ceremony took place at Alila Marea’s oceanfront bluff during a perfect golden sunset. Their ceremony was made even more special with a close friend officiating, Sharon’s aunt doing a reading, and an incredible vocal performance by Sharon’s sister and niece.

A Design That Told Their Story

Sharon and Dan’s wedding design with Valentina Weddings & Events was deeply personal, rooted in meaningful symbols from their love story. The entire aesthetic was inspired by French garden toile plates, which became the foundation for the blue floral motifs seen throughout the stationery and installation details. The bride’s Chinese heritage was represented by the elegant double happiness symbol, while the groom’s Norwegian origins were incorporated through the Norwegian flags on the guest bookmarks. The peach tones in the flowers celebrated the warmth of autumn in San Diego, and their shared love of music and concerts came to life through custom elements — a live band, a concert-style poster, and hidden guest favors that included a magnet and curated playlist.

Dinner & Dancing in the Oceana Ballroom

After the sun set during cocktail hour, guests gathered in the Oceana Ballroom for dinner and dancing. The modern space glowed with candlelight and warm wood tones, creating an inviting atmosphere for toasts, laughter, and an unforgettable night on the dance floor with DeBois Entertainment keeping the celebration lively.

Wedding Planner: Valentina Weddings & Events

Venue + Catering: Alila Marea Beach Resort

San Diego Wedding Photographer: Mirelle Carmichael

Videographer: Natalie Weldon

Florist: Leah Mai Floral Design

Hair & Makeup: KC Witkamp

Rentals: Adore Folklore

Rentals: Catalog Atelier

Dance Floor: RCD Dancefloors

Linens: BBJ La Tavola

Band: DeBois Entertainment

Babysitter: Munchkin Minders

Lighting: Brilliant Event Lighting

Invitations, Wedding Stationery, Seating Chart: Claudia Strenger Calligraphy

Cake and Dessert: The Fabulous Cake Girls

Styling Mat and Flat Lay: The Flat Lays Styler

Mirelle Carmichael is an award-winning fine art photographer based in San Diego and Santa Barbara County. She specializes in high-quality publication-worthy photography for weddings, special events, and editorials. Mirelle Carmichael Photography also offers year-round family photography and portraits throughout Southern California.