A Bel-Air Bay Club Wedding Filled With Warm Details and Artful Inspiration in Los Angeles, California
After participating in 14 weddings over the course of their lives, sweethearts Karina and Mike Gwynn knew exactly how they wanted to style their big day. Spotlighting the magic of Southern California, the couple selected the Bel Air Bay Club as the backdrop for their wedding. “We wanted something elegant and by the beach,” explains the bride. The indoor-outdoor flow of the venue, with views of the ocean (harkening back to their engagement, as Mike popped the question on the seaside Cliffs of Mohr in Ireland) as well as a spacious and formal ballroom, allowed for Karina and Mike to breathe life into their vision.
When it came down to the aesthetic of the event, selecting the color palette was simple. “I wanted whimsical airy vibes: [light colors and neutral tones],” says Karina. Flowers were the focus of the wedding’s fine-art-inspired style. Karina notes she sought out “large open blooms mixed with texture and stems. Modern elegance with a light bohemian flare is how to best describe the look I was going for.” The couple’s florist was able to achieve excellence—the wooden ceremony arch featured creams, salmon, blush and golden hues that matched simple, fresh aisle markers.
Keeping true to their selected vibe, the ballroom reception exuded warmth and taste, offering chandeliers dressed in lush greenery hanging over both long and round tables. Golden chairs and light-hued table runners framed a mix of low centerpieces with one high centerpiece on the center table. “We had lots of flowers, candles, and fruits that really gave the tables an extra touch,” the bride gushes.
The name of the game being “elegance,” what better fashion choice for the groom and groomsmen than classic, chic tuxedos? The men all stunned in their timeless attire and the ladies wowed in flowing turquoise dresses. Karina donned a gorgeous Martina Liana gown and a cathedral-length veil with tons of intricate beading that perfectly encapsulated her idea of a “sensual, yet tasteful” wedding outfit.
Of course, a wedding isn’t complete without the personal details. Karina and Mike wanted to infuse their personality into every possible element. A very special tradition kicked off the event. “Our ceremony included a lasso ritual which is when a lasso in the form of an 8 is bound around bride and groom. This is typically performed at Mexican Catholic weddings and signifies our everlasting union.” The best part: they used the very same lasso that bound Karina’s parents together in marriage 35 years prior.
In tandem with the stylish additions of custom napkins, stir sticks and their wedding logo, the bride and groom included photos of their beloved dog, Sister Patterson, into their specialty drink menu. Continuing the personalization, the newlyweds turned tradition on its head and performed their first dance between the ceremony and reception. “During the cocktail hour, a pianist played our first dance [and] our best friend sang the song. This was a very special moment,” Karina shares. In fact, their first dance was the moment the couple had anticipated the most. “[It] was everything we were hoping for.”
Having had to delay their wedding due to COVID-19, Karina and Mike were able to appreciate each moment of their big day that much more. When asked what words of wisdom they may have for future brides and grooms planning their own nuptials, Karina and Mike erred on the side of staying true to yourself and your desires. “It's really important to think about what is most important to you on your special day [and] try to incorporate that in your wedding.” And for practical (and sage) advice: “Ask around for referrals and interview vendors before hiring them.”