Christmas Wedding at Thousand Hills
We’ve all seen Christmas weddings but Alex and Tori’s winter-inspired wedding at Thousand Hills near Pismo Beach, California, were truly inspiring. Don’t let the warm atmosphere fool you; this couple pulled off a Christmas-filled event brimming with the magic and wonder of the season. Their invitation suite was the first hint at this festive event. Bright red envelopes with snowflakes contained stationery emblazoned with red and white flowers, evergreen, and dark red calligraphy.
Tori and her bridesmaids got ready at her family's private estate, which had multiple rooms decorated to match her vision, and a perfect courtyard to capture them before the ceremony.
Tori chose a strapless lace gown with a tulle skirt for her perfect bridal look. Her bouquet featured a generous assortment of red, pink, and white flowers to match her Christmas vision.
She couldn’t think of anything more elegant than her beautiful bridesmaids in bright red dresses. Each lady wore a long red dress, different in shade and style, to speak to her own personality.
The groom wore a black tuxedo complete with a black bow tie and a boutonniere made with a flannel ribbon. His groomsmen all wore gray vests, white shirts, and gray pants.
As guests descended upon the ceremony, they each took Polaroids of themselves and placed them in a guest book for the couple. Two white columns decorated with wreaths pronounced the ceremony spot and guests found their seats under the sweeping tree.
Together, with family and friends, the two made their promises to one another. They sealed their vows with a kiss and joined hands to start their journey as husband and wife.
They ventured around the property to take their post-ceremony photos.
With the grass-covered hills looming in the distance, the bright red bouquet makes a statement accessory.
When guests entered the reception inside the renovated barn, they found their seats by picking a personalized ornament off one of the many pine trees.
The bride wanted to incorporate as much evergreen as possible to bring the theme of the wedding to life. The beautiful and fragrant greenery appeared everywhere – including the centerpieces.
Behind the head table was a grand wooden wall that the couple bedecked with an 80-foot cedar garland, a cohesive touch to the evergreen table runner down below. The tablescape featured ornate gold plates, white linen napkins, and a sprig of evergreen.
With rows of string lights up above, and numerous Christmas trees all around, the couple entered the reception surrounded by light.
After dinner, they had their turn on the dance floor for the first time as Mr. and Mrs. It was underneath the barn’s chandelier that they danced, which contained ornaments made with dried petals from the very first flower bouquet Alex ever gave Tori. She saved the petals for four and a half years and there, on their wedding day, they danced beneath them, a reminder of their journey to that day and a promise of hope for the future.
This Christmas-inspired wedding wasn’t just full of joy, it was filled with personal touches that only this special couple could include. Personalized ornaments, keepsakes, and family contributions made this wedding one that fills us with the Christmas spirit, a reminder that this special holiday is truly best celebrated with love.
Photography: Natalie Schutt Photography Event Design: Lisa Coon Events Venue: Thousand Hills Ranch Cake Design: Nicki Occhipinti Floral Design: Wilder Floral Co. Makeup & Hair: Makeup Amanda Video: Trevor Hooper Films Bridal Dress: Ania Collection Bridal Shoes: BHLDN Stationary & Paper Goods: Melody Anne Design