Michelle and Alvin’s Coyote Hills Golf Course wedding was such a special one for me to document, especially because my relationship with this couple started in such a meaningful way! I also had the honor of capturing their proposal, so getting to photograph their wedding day felt like such a full-circle moment. I’ve always loved how tucked away and peaceful this venue feels, even though it’s right in the middle of Orange County. After photographing a wedding here, I can confidently say it deserves so much more hype.
Between the rolling green hills and beautiful ceremony space, it’s such a perfect spot for couples wanting that laid-back elegant setting for their wedding. Michelle and Alvin also celebrated with a tea ceremony the following day, which made this such a meaningful multi-day celebration!
The Details & Getting Ready
Michelle and Alvin spent the first part of their day getting ready separately at their hotel before heading over for their Coyote Hills Golf Course wedding. One of my favorite details from the day was the subtle travel-inspired theme. Their boarding pass-style invitation suite was such a fun and creative touch!
Michelle also handwrote her vows on a scroll. It was such a fun and unique personal detail to photograph alongside everything else. Michelle wore a classic off-the-shoulder gown while Alvin wore a timeless black tuxedo. It was such a peaceful start to the day before everything officially began at the venue.
A First Look at Coyote Hills Golf Course Wedding Venue
Michelle and Alvin chose to do their first look at Coyote Hills Golf Course in front of the venue’s cascading waterfall. It honestly couldn’t have been a more perfect spot for the moment. The combination of the water and soft January light made everything feel so romantic!
After their first look, we took bride and groom portraits and wedding party photos before guests arrived for the ceremony. Since their wedding was at the end of January, the 4pm ceremony start time was perfect. The light was absolutely gorgeous and gave the venue such a warm glow before sunset.
Coyote Hills Golf Course Wedding Ceremony & Sunset Portraits
Michelle and Alvin’s ceremony at Coyote Hills Golf Course wedding venue was honestly such a highlight of the day. The ceremony space itself already feels so romantic with the cascading waterfall backdrop, elevated altar, and vine-covered wooden pergola, but their design choices made it feel even more personal.
They had beautiful white draping and chandeliers hung throughout the space, while blue and white florals lined the aisle leading up to the waterfall. They also tied in subtle travel-inspired details throughout the design, including a welcome sign that read “Now Boarding”. There was still some golden January light pouring into the ceremony space. Everything about their ceremony felt beautiful and so meaningful.
Right after the ceremony, we snuck away for a few more newlywed portraits. The light was still absolutely perfect before heading into the reception.
Coyote Hills Golf Course Wedding Reception in The Vista Falls Pointe Ballroom
Michelle and Alvin’s Coyote Hills Golf Course wedding reception in the Vista Falls Pointe Ballroom was just as beautiful as the ceremony. The ballroom was draped floor to ceiling in white fabric with blue lighting throughout. It worked so well with their blue and white floral design and travel-inspired details that were included in the tablescapes.
Each place setting included luggage tag favors and passport-inspired touches that tied everything together. Between the golf course views just outside, the glowing chandeliers, emotional speeches from family and friends, and a packed dance floor by the end of the night, the entire reception (and day itself) was one to remember!
The Next Day: A Wedding Tea Ceremony
The following day, Michelle and Alvin celebrated with a traditional tea ceremony at Marriott Los Angeles Monterey Park with close family and friends. One of the most fun parts of the day was watching Alvin take part in the door games before he could finally see Michelle. Everyone was laughing the entire time, which made for such a playful and energetic start to the night.
Michelle’s red dress with gold embroidery was absolutely stunning. The entire day felt so meaningful while still being full of personality. I always love documenting multi-day wedding celebrations and having the opportunity to photograph cultural traditions that are so meaningful to each couple and their families.
Why Choose Coyote Hills Golf Course For Your Wedding
If you’re planning a wedding at Coyote Hills Golf Course, it’s such a good fit for couples who want beautiful views, an elegant reception space, and a venue that feels relaxed while still elevated. The golf course scenery and ceremony setting are gorgeous. They also have spacious reception spaces like the Vista Falls Pointe Ballroom, The Pointe Ballroom, and the Payne Stewart Pavilion.
So many Orange County couples love getting married here, and it’s easy to see why. It’s also perfect for couples planning multi-day celebrations or incorporating meaningful cultural traditions throughout their wedding weekend, just like Michelle and Alvin did.
And if you’re looking for an Orange County wedding photographer to document your day in a true-to-color, natural way while also making sure you actually enjoy the experience, I just might be the perfect fit for you. I live close by to Coyote Hills Golf Course, and I love photographing weddings here.
You can learn more about me on my about page. If my work feels like what you’ve been searching for, I’d love to hear from you through my contact page. In the meantime, you can see more real weddings and even resources over on the blog!
Nicole & Photo | Orange County Wedding Photographer
Vendors:
Venue: Coyote Hills Golf Course
Planner: Events by Stephanie
Photographer: Nicole & Photo
