Ryan’s and Annie’s love story began in a San Diego office when their two work desks were placed right beside one another. They struck up a conversation over the cubicle partitions, and after a few laughter-filled conversations, they progressed to a lunch date. From then on, the couple began spending as much time together out of the office as they did in it — talking, laughing, and strolling through some of California’s famous landmarks on adventure vacations. Eventually, Ryan and Annie announced their engagement!
Ryan and Annie knew that Casa Romantica would be the perfect place to join their lives together in the company of family and friends. The city of San Clemente held a special place in their hearts for its charming history & blissful oceanic views — and it didn’t hurt that it was the hometown of several of their guests, who were helpful in recommending ideal destinations. Casa Romantica’s variety of indoor and outdoor spaces created the perfect ambiance to suit Ryan’s relaxed, beach-y personality and Annie’s elegant spirit.
Their wedding day at Casa Romantica was filled with meaningful moments. From their heartfelt, handwritten vows to their well-practiced first dance, the new Mr. and Mrs. Payne hosted a warm and romantic experience.
During their ceremony, the couple held an hourglass between them. They took turns adding a different color of sand as a representation of their timeless love stories coming together as one.
Another special aspect of their ceremony was the officiant. Annie chose the priest who baptized her as a young girl to wed Ryan and herself.
The couple accentuated the venue’s natural beauty with stunning white & blush-hued floral arrangements and gold accents designed by Lynne Lucente Floral Designs and placed by Weddings by Cortney Helaine. Annie’s bridal party wore formal navy gowns adorned with silver sequins and Ryan’s groomsmen wore classic black tuxedos for the ultimate black-tie affair.
Every detail of their wedding was executed with elegance and joy. Their photographer, Kaylee Casanova, had made a point to get to know Annie and Ryan as a couple to ensure she could create pictures that would emulate both of their personalities — and she expertly documented every candid moment.
They selected Eric Morales from Extreme DJ to manage the musical entertainment for their guests. The couple was hesitant to allow song requests at first, but Eric kept selections well-aligned with the newlyweds’ comfort level — and kept everyone dancing all night long.
After a sunset cocktail hour and plated dinner catered by Iva Lee’s Catering, Plumeria Cakes brought out a show-stopping cake along with some delicious mini-desserts.
The newlyweds made a blissful Toast to cap the night, and headed out in their vintage Packard (rented from Lake Forest Limos) to rest before embarking on their honeymoon.
Who knew that the placement of two work desks would have evolved into two people in love and their beautiful Casa Romantica wedding? We loved sharing in their experience. Best of luck to Ryan and Annie, A.K.A. Mr. and Mrs. Payne, on their marriage!
Vendors
Coordinator: Weddings by Cortney Helaine
Caterer: Iva Lee’s Catering
Desserts: Plumeria Cake Studio
Florist: Lynne Lucente Floral Designs
Ceremony Musician: The Ocdamia Strings
Musical Entertainment: Eric Morales of Extreme DJ Service
Photographer: Kaylee Casanova
Videographer: Jason Silzle of Dove Weddings
Hair and Makeup: Katie Vollmer of Beauty and the Beach
Limo: Lake Forest Limos