This wedding has stayed with me over the years — not because of trends or timelines, but because the day itself was that good. Let’s relive this wedding from 2023 shall we!?
Picture this: Grand Island Mansion, a French provincial dream tucked in Lodi/Walnut Grove, California. The venue was straight out of a fairy tale. Rachel wanted nothing short of Disney princess vibes, & spoiler alert!!
She nailed it.
From City Hall to Grand Island Mansion: A Love Story Unfolds
Remember Rachel and Josh’s City Hall engagement shoot? Well, that’s where it all began. If you need me to jog your memory, check out their session HERE.
Rachel, the beautiful bride, is the little sister of Katrina, one of my all-time favorite clients. We first crossed paths when Katrina and her husband did a COVID backyard wedding and then ventured to Tahoe for some breathtaking bridal portraits which you can see HERE.
Fast forward to today, and I find myself capturing Rachel and Josh’s love story. Life works in mysterious, beautiful ways.
Details Surrounding the Wedding at Grand Island Mansion
Getting Ready Magic at an Airbnb in Lodi
Before the beauty of Grand Island Mansion, we kicked off the day at an Airbnb in Lodi.
The air was filled with excitement as I captured the getting-ready moments, the stunning dress, and all the intricate details. Oh, and did I mention? Katrina, Rachel’s sister, is pregnant! Talk about a growing family and spreading love.
So, you know we had to get lots of those special moments captured.
Town Estates and Vineyards
We switched up the vibe for the guys’ getting-ready shots at Towne Estates and Vineyards—a vineyard with a touch of Airbnb charm. Hurricane Hillary tried to make a cameo, and the humidity was off the charts, but this crew was unstoppable.
We captured first looks and wedding party portraits against the backdrop of this beautiful estate.
The Grand Island Mansion, Bridgerton Vibes, and a Fairy Tale Ceremony
And now, the grand reveal—Grand Island Mansion.
Think Bridgerton meets fairy tale castle. The ceremony, set in front of the mansion, was nothing short of breathtaking. Personal vows had everyone in tears. We whisked through family portraits, and despite the venue’s quirks, the day flowed seamlessly.
Golden Hour Magic Followed by Polaroid Moments
Golden hour stole the show as we ventured into the stunning property for more photos.
Then, we kicked off the festivities with toasts, cake cutting, and some serious early 2000’s dance floor vibes. Josh and Rachel, with hearts full of love, even shared a private last dance before the sparkler exit.
They made a grand exit in a vintage convertible Mercedes, circled the property, and then had a moment to relive the day through Polaroids.
Talk about a fairy tale ending.
Grand Island Mansion Vendor Dream Team
Photo: Dani Rawson Photo x Jordan Lennon Photo
Video: Toast Wedding Films
Dress: J’aime Bridal
Florist: Beautiful by Nature Florist
Rings: Brilliant Earth
Bridesmaids Dresses: Birdy Grey
DJ: Beat Fleet DJs
Venue + Catering: Grand Island Mansion
Getting Ready Location: Towne Estates & Vineyard
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