One of the beautiful things about being wedding photographers in Fallbrook, California is living a mere 5 minutes away from one of our favorite venues. Grand Tradition Estate & Gardens is just a hop, skip and a jump from our home in Fallbrook. It also so happens to be the wedding venue we were married at, so it holds a special place in our hearts. Shelley & Dustin must’ve also had all of those warm and fuzzy feelings after visiting Grand Tradition Estate because they chose it for their elegant New Year’s Eve wedding.

Dustin and Shelley showed up with their family and friends and headed to their beautiful prep rooms. The grooms room is a blast for the guys, with a pool table, and all took part, including the adorable toddler Hudson. While the guys relaxed and enjoyed each other’s company the girls enjoyed some champagne and got ready for the night to come. It was heart warming to see the love in this room between family and friends. Watching Shelley and her daughter Bailey interact reminded how blessed we are to do what we do.

The Grand Tradition has two amazing ceremony sites, with the Arbor Terrace being our favorite and the choice of Shelley and Dustin as well. The ceremony site looked as beautiful as ever with a beautiful floral design of roses along the aisle leading to the backdrop of all backdrops, a huge waterfall surrounded by trees and plants that would make you think you are in Hawaii. Shelley, Dustin and Bailey participated in a sand ceremony to signify them officially blending into one loving family.

After whisking the couple away for a hour or so to do some special photos around the grounds it was time for the party to begin. For the reception the couple opted for clean and classic with black and white décor. Shelley’s gorgeous gown from David’s Bridal had a fun black bow tying in the color theme of the wedding even more while adding a fun personal touch. Sheri’s Flowers prepared the centerpieces featuring tall iron candelabras with crisp white hydrangeas, which really popped. The cake was made to match by Jennifer at Elegance on Display. Tim Coy from California DJ’s had Frank Sinatra serenading us in the background making the whole night feel very timeless and classy.

The couple ended the evening in true glistening New Years Eve fashion with a sparkler send off and an (almost) New Years kiss. We wish these two sweet souls all of the happiness in the world! They were truly one of the kindest couples, offering up food, drinks, and heaters. Truly any comfort they could to those around them. Cheers to the new year and to Shelley and Dustin!