When Sophia and Jacob first shared their vision for a Southern California beach wedding, I knew it was going to be something special. They decided on Young’s Beach Shack (Gravel’s Event Space) in Southern California as their wedding venue and every detail came together to create a wedding that was as breathtaking as the ocean views.

Sophia and Jacob’s wedding was the perfect balance of elegance and coastal charm. It was an especially special event for us because I was previously Sophia’s sister’s wedding planner, so the day felt like a family reunion! Keep scrolling for more beach wedding inspiration.

The Design: Tropical, Southern California Charm

We were going for stylish, vibrant, and effortlessly coastal.

• Florals: A mix of peach and orange hues with tropical white orchids and peace lilies created a warm, elevated color palette.
  
• Citrus accents: Sliced oranges tucked beneath each centerpiece were a nod to SoCal locals and were fragrant in the salty air.
  
• Beach-inspired touches: Seashells scattered along the bar, driftwood woven into floral arrangements, and a stunning fanned palm leaf arch for the ceremony.
  
• Unique details: A surfboard seating chart, a “shoe valet” for the barefoot beach ceremony, wood-and-white checkered dance floor, and cozy lounge sets on the sand for guests to enjoy.

The Guest Experience: Personal and Memorable

We helped to put this couple’s love on display in a way that invited their guests in on the excitement. Here’s how the guest experience played out…

To get to the ceremony, guests were welcomed down from the shack to the sand which felt like a private entrance to paradise. Instead of traditional photo booths, QR codes and disposable cameras at cocktail tables encouraged guests to capture candid moments.

Our favorite part, handwritten cards awaited each guest at their reception table setting. This touch of intimacy between the couple and their guests set everyone up for a fun night on the dance floor. Other thoughtful touches were guest favors including, pashminas (for when the ocean breeze picked up) and flip flops (for sandy dance floor comfort).

Behind the Scenes: Wedding Coordination at the Beach

As a wedding planner, my role is to ensure the day flows seamlessly for the couple and their guests. Because Young’s Beach Shack is right on the sand, we needed to carefully coordinate transportation. Guests arrived via shuttle from two pickup locations, then were transported by golf carts from the parking lot down to the shack. At the end of the night, my team and I made sure everyone got back up safely to their shuttles, all while keeping the focus on the fun and flow of the celebration.

It’s those behind-the-scenes details that make a big difference in ensuring a stress-free wedding day for the couple.

Another Successful Wedding by Rebecca Calagna Events

Sophia and Jacob’s wedding is one I’ll never forget. As their planner, designer, and coordinator, it was such a joy to see their vision come to life.

If you’re dreaming of your own elegantly tropical wedding by the ocean, I’d love to help you design a day that feels effortless, beautiful, and uniquely yours. Feel free to book a complimentary consultation. View the vendor list from this wedding in the caption of our recent Instagram post.