After Kelly Irvin and Duncan Swezey were engaged, they began to hire their wedding team and confided in Kelly’s mother for inspiration. “My mom started putting together notebooks filled with photos, charts, and inspiration as soon as I got engaged and was just incredible from start to finish,” says the bride as she reflects on the planning process. After six months of arranging their nuptials, Kelly and Duncan hosted a summer soirée, planned by David Pressman Events, in Southern California, where they reside.

Since the lovebirds wanted to tie the knot in a church, they commenced the big day with a Catholic ceremony at the house of worship where Kelly – who donned a gorgeous bridal gown by Ines Di Santo –always dreamed of getting married. Photographer Laurie Bailey took memorable snapshots of the couple at the altar, exiting the church corridor, and riding off in a luxurious Rolls-Royce together. Shortly afterward, the newlyweds arrived at their gorgeous reception venue. Along with a stunning view of the ocean, the location holds special meaning to Kelly, as she grew up visiting the property and her parents held their own reception there years prior. “It's so beautiful and just keeps getting better each year. [I] just couldn't think of getting married anywhere else that would have such a personal connection to share with Duncan and his family,” she confides.

Guests enjoyed delicious fare and cocktails – in addition to the sophisticated décor. “The overall vision was for all of the different spaces to feel elegant, intimate, and soft, with a color scheme of off-whites, creams, and blushes with lots of candles everywhere,” Kelly reveals. This look was executed with floral arrangements that showcased garden roses, hydrangeas, ranunculuses, peonies, and greenery. The minimal blooms also paired with the sophisticated design of the couple’s scrumptions confection, which was created with fresh flowers cascading down the four tiers. Friends and loved ones had a wonderful time dancing throughout the night, posing for photos, and indulging in a late-night menu of cookies, sliders, and bite-sized Philly cheesesteaks.

As she mused upon their special day, Kelly was thrilled to have shared this milestone with so many people. “With more guests than the [venue] had ever had for a wedding, we were able to make every guest feel a part of our celebration.”