Italian Countryside Meets the California Coast at This Casino Wedding
Toni and Andy were set to say “I do” in Italy in 2020, but when COVID had other ideas, this amazing couple pivoted and set their micro wedding date at The Casino San Clemente while still implementing aspects of the Italian countryside. White and toffee roses and meandering vines decorated the white brick fireplace outside on the Patio of the Stars and black chairs were perfectly lined up for guests. The bride, Toni, and her bridesmaids put the finishing touches on their looks inside the Brides Room and popped champagne while Andy and his groomsmen suited up in the West Wing. With help from her mom, Toni buttoned up the back of her classic crepe wedding dress, out on her pearl veil, and headed to her first look with her father. With a tap of the shoulder, her dad turned around and was stunned by his daughters beauty. The two went in for a warm embrace and exchanged sweet words before heading to the ceremony.
Everyone was seated on the patio as music cued up for the wedding party to walk down the aisle. Andy was first to make an appearance and anxiously awaited the entrance of his bride. Toni and her father walked out arm-in-arm and happy tears were tough to hold back. Since Toni and Andy opted out of a first look, this was the first time they had seen each other that day. The bride and groom shared personalized vows that made everyone laugh and cry, then slid each others rings on. The officiant pronounced the two husband and wife and the crowd cheered as the newlyweds kissed and exited the ceremony.
Black Bean and Sweet Potato Empanadas with avocado crema and Fig, Goat Cheese, and Mascarpone Tarts drizzled with a pomegranate sauce were tray passed as guests sipped on refreshing cocktails, beer and wine. Meanwhile, Toni and Andy were adventuring just outside The Casino for some golden hour photos. The newlyweds enjoyed their time posing for photos with Spanish-style backdrops and of course, the ocean just a few steps away. Upon their return, guests had found their seats for dinner and toasts. The first course of Pear and Walnut Salad was served, then toasts were shared. Guests laughed and cried and raised a glass filled with Champagne after every speech. The final course of Grilled Mahi Mahi, Classic Beef Filet, Gourmet Mashed Potatoes, and Roasted Broccolini was served after toasts ended. The menu was selected by the bride and groom during their wedding planning process with our Event Specialist, Brittany, and guests couldn’t have been happier with the food. After dinner, a small cake was cut by the newlyweds and passed out to guests with a sweet tooth. The remainder of the evening was spent telling stories across the table, reminiscing on past times and wishing the bride and groom the best for their new life together.
Venue: The Casino San Clemente // Catering: Jay’s Catering // Stylist: Laurel Street Events // Photographer: Allison Stoddard // Dress: Alyssa Kristin Bridal // Veil: Grace Loves Lace // Florist: Brit Floral Co. // Stationary: Velvet and Gold // HMUA: Face by Raymie // Video: McKenna Elsner // Tabletop Rentals: Bright Event Rentals