Freda and Sam’s Temecula wedding was an unforgettable experience. Held at the bride’s family home, it was full of vibrant design and heartfelt details that made their celebration truly one-of-a-kind. Read on to learn more about their special day.

newlyweds holding hands as during their ceremony as their loved ones watch.

Moments that Made Freda and Sam’s Temecula Wedding

Firstly, Freda and Sam were a dream to work with. Traveling from Los Angeles, they brought a laid-back, free-spirited vibe that was felt throughout the entire day. And it all began with their unique wedding venue. 

The Bride’s Family Estate

When the couple shared their plans to get married at Freda’s mother’s home in Temecula, I was immediately excited. It’s always such a privilege to photograph private estate weddings. For me, there’s something special about documenting memories in a place that already holds so much meaning. This specific estate featured palm trees and other Southern Californian touches overlooking beautiful vistas of the rolling vineyards of Temecula Valley wine country. I’ve even had a few people ask what the venue was, a testament to how dreamy the property felt!

Colorful Design Choices

Freda and Sam envisioned a day full of bold colors, and that spirit was reflected throughout their Temecula wedding. Red, their signature color, showed up throughout the day, from their custom wedding logo to a vintage pick-up truck parked on the property. The guests also embraced the mood with spring and summer tones of their own. The whole celebration felt light, joyful, and full of personality, just like the couple.

Details That Made Their Day Their Own

From the beginning, Freda and Sam knew they wanted the day to reflect who they are. Basketball is an important part of Sam’s life, and he even worked for the Boston Celtics. So, they incorporated a custom basketball hoop with their wedding logo on the backboard into the decor. Their dog, Pumpernickel, also had a starring role as their ring bearer and was also featured on their cocktail napkins.   

To complement the nostalgic and retro aesthetic they were drawn to, they also asked for film photos. I love incorporating film into wedding days, as it adds a softness and timelessness that digital photos simply can’t replicate.

Documenting What Mattered Most

One of the things I appreciated most about Freda and Sam was their intention behind how they wanted their day documented. Rather than focusing heavily on portraits and spending lots of time away from the action, they wanted to be fully present with their people, to celebrate, connect, and make real memories. I always prioritize capturing meaningful moments without pulling couples away for too long, so they can get back to the celebration. So, I loved being able to capture Freda and Sam just as they were, surrounded by those they care about most.

the bride holding a drink while walking around the temecula wedding private estate before her ceremony.
the bride getting ready for her wedding at her mom's Temecula estate.
the bride's mom helping put the final details on the bride's wedding dress.
the bride and groom hugging after their first look on the lawn of their temecula wedding private estate.
the newlyweds kissing in front of their temecula estate before their wedding.
the newlyweds and their families smiling.
the bride and her bridesmaids smiling and wearing colorful dresses.
the bride and her bridesmaids, all dressed in colorful dresses.
the bride and her bridesmaids smiling and dressed in colorful dresses.
the newlyweds smiling with their dog.
the newlyweds petting their dog.
flowers, palm trees, and vineyards of the temecula valley wine country.
the temecula wedding seating chart.
the couple's dog walking down the isle, serving as their ring bearer.
the wedding guests dressed in colorful outfits.
the newlyweds holding hands under a pergola during their temecula wedding.
wedding guests and the expansive temecula valley wine country.
the newlyweds exchanging their vows.
the newlyweds kissing under a pergola during their temecula wedding.
fun wedding details, including matches and cards with the couple, their wedding logo, and dog.
the newlyweds sharing a private moment in the corner of their house.
the bride during cocktail hour sharing drinks with her loved ones.
the wedding guests dressed in colorful outfits during the newlywed's temecula wedding
a wedding guest sampling the food during cocktail hour.
the newlyweds at cocktail hour sharing drinks with their loved ones.
wedding table details, including a menu, candles, and flowers.
wedding table details including flowers, a menu, and candles.
a wedding dinner table and string lights and lanterns above.
newlyweds dancing on their checked dance floor with lanterns above them during their Temecula wedding.
two wedding guests posing in front of expansive vineyard views.
a vintage red pick up truck and a basketball hoop with the couple's logo on the backboard.
a vintage pick up truck, flowers, and bails of hay.
a basketball hoop with the couple's wedding logo on the backboard.
the newlyweds going for a stroll at sunset.
the bride's vintage Jimmy Choo heels.
the newlyweds at their dinner table smiling.
the husband and friends dancing.
the bride and friends dancing during their temecula wedding.
the newlyeds on the dance floor smiling at each other surrounded by their loved ones.
wedding guests dancing the night away.

I feel so lucky to have been a part of Freda and Sam’s Temecula wedding. Their warmth and the energy of everyone there made the day unforgettable. Planning a meaningful wedding in SoCal? Let’s create something beautiful together—click here to get started!

Temecula Wedding Vendors:

Photographer: Lauren Ahn Photography

Event Planner: Citrus City Events

Makeup: Alyssa O’Dell

DJ: Captain Planet

Catering: James Madison Catering

Rentals: Creative Coverings

written by Sonder Studio