Even though Austin and I have been capturing weddings for a while now on camera and film, we’re still in awe every time we get to witness love stories unfold in places that feel pulled from a sun-drenched daydream. This Twin Oaks wedding day was no different. Danielle and Brandon are two city souls from New York, who fell hard for a hidden gem in Southern California. Let’s set the scene at Twin Oaks Golf Course in San Marcos, California. (It’s not your grandpa’s stuffy golf club, we promise).
Twin Oaks is a sparkling diamond of a SoCal wedding venue. It’s got just enough polish and a whole lot of heart. Think rolling green fairways, massive native oaks, and chaparral hills that paint the horizon. We couldn’t imagine a more scenic spot for two people who already know a thing or two about chasing adventure and finding beauty in unexpected places. And since they were planning an outdoor ceremony from afar, the dry, mild climate (the average summer temp is 72 degrees!), this was a pretty safe bet. We loved this venue for them!
As photographers, the juxtaposition of the manicured greens, beautiful landscaping, ivy-covered pergolas, and inviting patio spaces with the ruggedness of the chaparral and woodlands couldn’t be better. It brings so much richness, depth, and variety to your photos and wedding aesthetic.
From New York City Lights to California Sunshine
Danielle and Brandon told us right away—city living is great, but when it came to their wedding, they wanted something softer and a little wild around the edges. They envisioned the kind of place where you can hear yourself think. (They wanted to experience their best friend’s toast without traffic honking in the background). Twin Oaks delivered in radiant style.
San Marcos is just far enough from the San Diego buzz that you can breathe easy, but close enough to dip your toes in the Pacific if the mood strikes. The town is about 30 minutes from the city and just minutes from the ocean. There’s a charming main street, trails for wandering (or running off those thrilling pre-wedding jitters), and more tacos than you could ever hope to try in a single weekend. We always tell out-of-towners: it’s like the best part of a vacation, plenty to do with just enough small-town magic to make you feel right at home.
Getting Ready, Golden Hour, & All the Feels
Most mornings at Twin Oaks are soft and golden. It’s the kind of light that makes even goofy groomsmen antics feel festively cinematic. Danielle spent the morning in the bridal suite, surrounded by her girls and the room filled with excited energy and hairspray. Twin Oaks has a gorgeous getting-ready space—big windows, leafy views, and a private cottage feel. We caught glimpses of Danielle’s mom dabbing at her eyes, the bridal party breaking into laughter over a shared joke, and Danielle herself—hands a little shaky and heart wide open. This girl exudes joy and light.
Their first look happened just outside along the garden walkway. We swear time slowed down for a minute. Brandon turned, saw Danielle, and we could tell: this was it. That moment. No one else in the world, just the two of them, sun on their shoulders and the rest of the day ahead.
Saying “I Do” On the Garden Vista Lawn
The ceremony itself was held on the Garden Vista Lawn, which lives up to its name and then some. Imagine: a gentle breeze, the scent of fresh-cut blooms, rolling hills in the background, and your closest people gathered around you. There were a few happy tears, a couple of inside jokes woven into their vows, and more than one guest snapping “sneaky” photos with a phone (we see you, Aunt Linda). All jokes aside, the ceremony was dreamy SoCal perfection.
After the ceremony, everyone made their way into the Garden Ballroom for cocktails, air conditioning, and a moment to cool off, connect with friends, and sip on a signature cocktail. Danielle and Brandon took a breath, just the two of them, before joining the party.
Pro tip: always steal away for a few minutes together. The day goes fast. And, with the ceremony behind you, this is a great time for relaxed, blissful newlywed portraits.
Dinner & Dancing Under the Stars
As dusk settled in, guests found their seats on the string-lit Fireside Patio. There’s a stone fireplace that gives the night this cozy, old-world charm—a great place to enjoy dinner and toast the newlyweds, which is exactly what happened. The tables were draped in white, with ivory florals and greenery spilling over simple glass vases. Candlelight flickered everywhere. Minimal, understated, and so, so elegant.
How To Make All-White Look Like a Dream
We love how Danielle and Brandon approached the design for their day—it wasn’t about the flowers or the centerpieces or the Pinterest board details (although their day was inspo worthy!). Instead, they let the setting and their story do most of the talking. Their color palette was crisp, all white with whispers of soft green. No fuss, no distractions, just understated elegance and a focus on what mattered most — the people. And the sunshine. And that perfect SoCal backdrop. Friends and family laughed, told stories, and danced barefoot (because shoes are overrated when you’re this happy).
Thinking About a Monochrome Wedding Palette?
If you’re thinking about a monochrome or all-white palette, here’s the real talk: it’s not about being fancy. It’s about creating space for the real stuff to shine. Here are a few quick tips for pulling it off:
1. Choose a venue with character. A built-in aesthetic will allow you to keep decor and design to a minimum in a way that looks organic and natural.
2. Incorporate a variety of textures. Think matte or silk linens, glossy ceramics, soft florals, and maybe metallic accents to add depth.
3. Keep florals loose and organic. Avoid overly sculpted designs, so nothing feels too rigid or formal. Greenery is a lovely way to break things up, add texture, and soften the look.
4. Lighting is everything. Let candlelight or soft uplighting bring warmth to your palette so it feels inviting, not sterile. Danielle and Brandon nailed it—simple, timeless, and totally swoon-worthy.
SoCal Vendor Team
Venue | Twin Oaks Golf Course
Planner | Giulia Events
Photo + Video | S/A Photo and Film
Florals | Simply Bliss Events
Dessert | Handels Ice Cream
It’s a Date!
Love our storytelling style and think we might be a fit? Let’s chat! We would be honored to capture your story in photo and film. Dates are filling up fast, so let’s get you on the books.
