When a San Diego wedding is able to pull off the beautiful feel of an elegant yet relaxed affair, we just know that it will make for a gorgeous and fun time. There is nothing we love more than a classic California wedding, complete with a dip first kiss and confetti! This couple did such a great job at making their wedding fun and relaxed that they kept the celebration going long after they had originally planned. We can’t blame them, with that gorgeous reception at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, we wouldn’t want to leave either! Their subtle travel theme with beautiful pops of color set their details off beautifully. Gwendolyn Tundermann did an amazing job at showcasing the true elegance of their day, and was even able to sneak away with the couple for an intimate portrait session on the water, with the twinkling city lights behind them.
From the bride: I woke up at 8:00 on Saturday morning of March 2, 2013. I stay in bed and look up at the ceiling and think to myself, "Wow, that was an amazing bed!" I feel relaxed and, most importantly happy to be marrying the person that I love. The stress that I had during the year of planning was long behind and I said "This is the day, I am not going to stress". I ordered in room dining for my bridesmaids, my mother and for myself. As I look out my balcony, I could see the Event Crew setting up, and that was when I started getting very excited!
The sun was shining, and my father was at my side. That was when I wanted to cry, knowing that he and my mother did everything just for my husband and I. The gates open and I see the love of my life at the end of the aisle. I laugh and soon after he laughs as well. I knew this is the only person that understands this awkward laugh, when I get nervous. As we say our vows and kiss, I am filled with excitement to finally call him my husband!
As Eike and I walk into the reception we were in awe. It looked amazing and seeing his family from Germany and my family together for the first time was incredible. The best part was the mariachi's and the dancing. It went by so fast and everyone was having a great time, so my dad decided to extend the time. By the end, I look at Eike and we both smile, and we both know that this is only the beginning of our journey.
Wedding planning advice: Try not to stress out. I work within the hospitality industry and my father works within banquets for a major hotel in San Diego, and being very particular and focusing only on the wedding was time consuming and I almost lost sight of what it felt like to be engaged. Enjoying the engagement is an amazing part. Planning things together, along with your mother and or father is important because they are the ones that keep you stable.
Honeymooned in: Hyatt Regency Nice, France at the French Riviera
About their honeymoon: Our honeymoon was amazing! Eike and I actually did a two week Europe Honeymoon trip. We flew direct with British Airways from San Diego to London and from there we travelled to Hamburg, Germany. From there we went through Germany visiting his family whom were unable to make it to the wedding. We went through Switzerland and ended at the French Riviera. AMAZING weather and beautiful scenery! We were in the French Riviera for a week travelling to Cannes and even rented a car and drove to Grasse. We even went to three different countries in one day! We went from Nice, France to Monte Carlo, Monaco, and then to a small village in Italy named Venitmiglia. We ended our trip by staying at night at the Andaz London. This was an amazing opportunity to travel together and have amazing experiences.
Must do's: Rent a car and just drive! Renting a car was fun, and stressful, but we were able to get out of the cities and explore and at times get lost! Another must do is to explore the place you visit and escape the typical tourist areas. It is easy to get stuck in the tourist areas, but it is fun to explore and see how the locals live and where they eat.
Must see's: Bern, Switzerland; East End of London, they have amazing Thai and Indian food!
Must see's: Bern, Switzerland; East End of London, they have amazing Thai and Indian food!
Photographer: Gwendolyn Tundermann | Venue: Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina | Bridal Gown: Vera Wang | Bridal Boutique: David's Bridal | Bridesmaids Dresses: Wtoo Collection from The White Flower | Florals + Invitation + Rentals + Decor + Planner: Imagine Event Decor | Wedding Cake: Edelweiss European Bakery San Diego | Videography: Campbellicious | Ceremony Guitarist/Singer: Matt Commerce | Lighting: D Lighting | DJ: Injoy Entertainment