I may have roots here in Erie, Pennsylvania, but I’m prone to wander for the sake of love. I always enjoy photographing local weddings, but when a couple asks me to travel across the nation to document their San Diego destination wedding, you can bet I’ll be on my way! The frequent flyer miles are adding up!
As a traveling wedding photographer, I approach weddings a bit differently. I enjoy helping couples fine tune their itineraries so their wedding day—or weekend!—is stress-free and flawless. From coordinating couple’s portraits and sunset time or commute logistics and shot lists, it’s my passion to provide couples with the destination wedding experience they’ve dreamt of. If you need someone who cares about the details for your destination wedding, I’m your girl.
Ashley and Chris wanted an intimate wedding location that felt exotic yet didn’t require a flight overseas. Balboa Park San Diego provided just that. The incredible Spanish architecture, palm-lined paths, reflecting pools, flowering gardens, and collection of museums and the zoo make this expansive park the perfect location for an adventurous elopement. The weather couldn’t have been better for their wedding weekend, and we had a blast strolling through the park.
Balboa Park is a fantastic micro wedding location. With 40 of their loved ones in attendance, Ashley and Chris exchanged heartfelt vows at St. Francis Chapel Balboa Park wedding venue. Then, they decided to savor the moment with a romantic sunset session before rejoining their friends and family for an evening of celebration at Carte Hotel San Diego.
If you’re loving these exotic ocean vibes at Balboa Park, plan a trip to see if it’s the right engagement or destination wedding location for you. Don’t forget to check out these scenic spots:
Top 8 Scenic Sites at Balboa Park | San Diego Destination Wedding
Cabrillo Bridge
We did most of Ashley and Chris’ sunset photos around Cabrillo Bridge. The architectural lines, natural light through the arches, and views of California Tower made it feel like we were taking romantic couple’s portraits in Spain. It was just the look they were going for.
California Tower
This historic landmark boasts intricate architectural details and projects high above the park. Inside, it houses the San Diego Museum of Us, and it is part of the California Building. Up close, the beautiful tower also features a dome covered in colorful tiles.
El Cid Statue
Ashley and Chris took a few photos here, too. A talented woman named Anna Hyatt Huntington created this statue of a medieval hero flying the flag atop his horse. The original statue is displayed at the Hispanic Society in New York City, but this copy does it justice and provides a unique backdrop for photos.
Balboa Park Carousel
Although Ashley and Chris opted out, I’m a sucker for carousel pictures in a wedding dress. The whimsical seats and festive lights provide a fun, artistic take on couple’s portraits if that’s your thing. Cue the carnival vibes! And let’s be real, who doesn’t want to take a ride on a carousel? Sneak a kiss for a photo that’s pure magic!
International Cottages
For an entirely different look and charming multicultural ambiance, visit the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages. As the continuation of an exhibit established in 1935, 34 small cottages honor diversity, peace, and cultural traditions. Examples of cottages include the houses of Korea, Peru, Lebanon, Ukraine, Mexico, Poland, Ireland, India, and 26 other countries. It’s an incredible experience, and the cottages are just beautiful!
Moreton Bay Fig Tree
Looking for shade? This massive natural historical landmark spans over 123 feet wide! While we can’t take photos underneath the tree (it’s fenced for protection), it’s certainly large enough to use as an impressive backdrop for photos.
Sefton Plaza
This local plaza showcases the history of Balboa park via bronze statues and vibrant landscape designs. The statues are on display throughout the plaza, and it’s easy to mistake them for actual people! You can do all kinds of creative shots in this plaza of statues.
Spanish Village Art Center
This open-air art center is exactly as the name suggests. It’s easy to imagine strolling through a historic Spanish-inspired village of adobe buildings. Experience the delicious foods, intricate jewelry, and stunning art pieces crafted by vendors set up along the tiled walkway. Colorful umbrellas, tiles, and merchandise paint a vibrant canvas for your photo session. You can find the festive village between the zoo and the Natural History Museum.
Begin Your Marriage with Adventure! Book Your San Diego Destination Wedding
Drop a line on my contact page to start planning your destination engagement, elopement, or wedding. I’m happy to answer any questions you might have!
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