Some weddings just stick with you forever, and Alyssa and Landon’s was one of those days. From the moment I met them at their engagement session, I knew they were special people and we were meant to be friends. Photographing their wedding was such a beautiful experience, and I feel so lucky to have been part of every moment of their Carlsbad wedding day.

Carlsbad Wedding Day: Overview

Their wedding day was full of intentional details, heartfelt moments, and some fun surprises. It all kicked off at 2:30 PM with getting ready photos. My second photographer spent the afternoon with Landon (he/him) while I stayed with Alyssa (she/her), capturing those final moments before their ceremony. I also took detailed shots of their venue (which is so beautiful), soaking in all the gorgeous touches they had planned. Their ceremony started at 4:30 PM, and both of their personal vows had everyone in tears…including me. 

After the ceremony, we headed off site to the beautiful Terramar Beach for couple and wedding party portraits. These two have such a natural, deep love that makes every photo feel like a dream – with just the right amount of drama. Meanwhile, my second photographer covered cocktail hour, capturing guests mingling and celebrating. 

One of the absolute highlights of the night? Landon wrote and performed a song for Alyssa. It was stunning – he even created a handout with the lyrics so everyone could follow along. Everyone (myself included) was tearing up. And if that wasn’t unique enough, they had a tattoo artist and a live painter there, making their wedding feel like this perfectly curated, creative experience that reflected who they are as a couple.

The celebration wrapped up with a grand exit at 11 PM, but we kept the night going! Because what better way to end an epic wedding day than a late-night In-N-Out run?! We headed there for milkshakes and, of course, more photos. It was the perfect way to close out such a meaningful and fun-filled day and give some time to process the day. 

What a 10-Hour Carlsbad Wedding Day Timeline Looks Like

Many couples hear “10 hours of coverage” and think it’s way too much, but when you see it broken down, it actually makes sense. It’s so true that your wedding day really does fly by! Here’s how Alyssa & Landon’s wedding day flowed:

• 2:30 PM – Getting Ready
  • Bride & groom prep with separate photographers
  • Venue detail shots
  • Individual wedding party photos
• 4:30 PM – Ceremony
  • Beautiful vow exchange
  • Brief ceremony 
• 5:00 PM – Couple Portraits Offsite & Cocktail Hour Onsite 
  • Private time for the couple & stunning golden hour shots
  • Second photographer captures cocktail hour candids
• 6:30 PM – Reception Begins
  • Grand entrance & dinner
  • Toasts & special dances
• 8:30 PM – Landon’s Live Performance
  • Groom’s surprise song for Alyssa (cue the tears!)
• 9:00 PM – Open Dance Floor
  • Guests celebrate with music, dancing, tattoos, and ramen
• 11:00 PM – Grand Exit
  • Send-off with family & friends
• 11:30 PM – In-N-Out 
  • A sweet, relaxed moment for the couple to soak in the day

A structured timeline like this keeps the day stress-free and ensures every important moment is beautifully documented without feeling rushed. If you’re planning your Southern California Carlsbad wedding day, I would love to help you! Contact me here to start planning. ❤️

Alyssa and Landon, I am beyond grateful to have been part of your journey. Your love is so beautiful, and your wedding was unforgettable. I can’t wait to see what’s next for you two! 

Vendor Love: 

Venue: Carlsbad Windmill by Wedgewood Weddings

Floral: Moments in Bloom

Live painter: Nicole Martin Art