As a wedding planner, designer, and florist, our team specializes in transforming iconic coastal venues into immersive environments. For Nicol and Austin’s wedding at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach, we designed a celebration inspired by the classic elegance of Pride and Prejudice, utilizing rich textures and large-scale installations to redefine the OC wedding experience.

A Cinematic Wedding Ceremony on the Monarch Beach Pacific Lawn

The ceremony featured a sophisticated blend of music and architecture. Nicol walked down the aisle in a cathedral-length ballgown to a live performance by celebrity violinist and DJ Esther Anaya.

The design focused on a deep, romantic palette of burgundy, beige, and blush. Key elements included:

• The Pergola: Draped in heavy velvet and integrated with natural tree branches for an organic, estate feel.

• Floral Installations: Lush arrangements lined the grand staircase and the length of the aisle.

• Functional Details: Custom programs were designed to fan out, offering guests both information and comfort during the outdoor service.

Art Gallery Cocktail Hour

Cocktail hour took place on the terrace, featuring a custom seating chart designed to mirror a professional art gallery.  Lace linens were placed on the cocktail tables, with vintage brass goblets serving as vases.  The bar featured brass floral detailing and a bar menu with a beautiful gold tassel.

Waldorf Pacific Ballroom Transformation

For the reception, we executed a total structural transformation of the ballroom. To achieve a residential, historic atmosphere, we installed:

• Custom Surfaces: New carpeting was laid throughout, and the walls were entirely draped in velvet.

• Indoor Landscapes: We constructed full-sized pepper trees within the room to bring the outdoors in.

• Lighting & Tablescapes: Massive candle walls provided the primary light source, supplemented by hundreds of tapers on the tables. Each place setting featured 24-carat gold china paired with fresh fruit accents.

The Celebration & After-Party

The dancing space was defined by a custom dance floor and deep, textured draping behind the live band. We curated velvet lounges for guest seating and displayed a traditional, multi-tiered wedding cake as a central focal point. After a full band set, Esther Anaya returned for a celebrity DJ set to close the evening.

This Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach wedding showcases how a classic literary inspiration can be elevated through high-end production and meticulous attention to detail.  For another wedding inspired by the Regency Era, check out this Bridgerton-inspired wedding at Greengate Ranch and Vineyards! 

Planning, Florals, & Design: Tyler Speier

Venue: Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club

Photographer:  Charlotte Wise Photography

Tabletop Rentals: Casa De Perrin

Draping/ Specialty Rentals: Revelry Event Designers

Rentals: Bright Event Rentals

Dance Floor: RCD Dance Floors

Carpet: Event Carpet Pros

Reception Linens: Theoni Collection

Cocktail Hour Linens:  BBJ/La Tavola

Videographer: Steven Jim Films

Band: Gold Standard (Downbeat LA)

DJ/Ceremony Musician:  Esther Anaya

Lighting/AV: Encore Global

Trees: Jackson Shrub 

Hair & Makeup: Aery Beauty

Photo booth: Mirmir

Dessert: It’s All About the Cake

Security: Premier Security & Consulting

 Day-of Paper Suite: Clara M Design