At Sun & Sparrow, we’re endlessly inspired by stories like Hannah and John’s. Tender, sun-soaked, and effortlessly magical. Their Balboa Bay Club wedding captured the spirit of a Mediterranean summer with a Southern California breeze, filled with whimsy, laughter, and deeply-rooted love.

The Couple: Hannah and John

Hannah and John’s story began like so many of our favorite love stories. It unfolded slowly, sweetly, and full of serendipity. They first met while working at a hotel during college, and destiny had them working together again years later. Over eight years of shared laughter, adventure, and life-building brought them to a beautiful sunset in Florence, where John proposed in a park overlooking the city.

Inspired by that golden Tuscan moment, their wedding theme took on a Mediterranean flair with peach tones and vivid bougainvillea, nodding to the romance of Italy and the warmth of Southern California.

Though Hannah lives in Tennessee now, she’s a SoCal girl at heart. Newport Beach was the perfect place to come home and celebrate love.

The Venue: A Balboa Bay Club Wedding with Yacht-Side Views

For Hannah, the Balboa Bay Club was a beautiful backdrop as well as a home full of childhood memories. As a former swim team member there, the venue held layers of memory and meaning.

This private Newport Beach yacht club offers an upscale coastal charm that’s hard to resist. With views of sparkling boats gently rocking in the harbor and a clean, classic aesthetic, it’s the kind of place that turns wedding dreams into reality. Portraits by the water radiated a relaxing, vacation-like warmth that perfectly complemented the couple’s Mediterranean vision.

The Wedding Day

On the day of the wedding, joy and calm danced together beautifully. Hannah got ready surrounded by her bridesmaids and family, finalizing details and sharing laughter that filled the room with light.

The groomsmen embraced the yacht club vibe, relaxing at the café in coordinating blue striped shirts and shorts, enjoying the moment before the celebration began.

Hannah and John shared a first look on a breezy balcony overlooking the docks, which served as a serene moment just for them. One of our favorite shots captured them by the bell tower, a spot dear to their hearts.

Their ceremony unfolded under the summer sun, with yachts drifting by and a gentle sea breeze in the air. The officiant brought a mix of heartfelt and humorous moments that made the moment unforgettable. When John, usually so stoic, welled up as Hannah walked down the aisle, there wasn’t a dry eye in sight.

In a beautiful twist on tradition, guests signed sails instead of a guestbook, which the couple will later display in their home. It made for a keepsake as unique and thoughtful as they are.

Coastal Portraits & Yacht Club Vibes

As the golden hour set in, we took portraits by the docks, framed by boats and soft ripples of water that tied the entire day together.

Even their rehearsal dinner paid tribute to their love of the sea: an intimate celebration aboard a yacht. Every detail, from their venue choice to the blooms in Hannah’s bouquet, reflected their story and vision.

Sun & Sparrow: Your Socal Wedding Photographer

ellie fuqua of sun and sparrow, standing in a field with a white shirt and jeans

At Sun & Sparrow, we believe your wedding photos should feel like your favorite story. One told in dreamy light and filled with emotion. With over fifteen years behind the lens, Ellie and the Sun & Sparrow team are passionate about capturing magical, heartfelt moments in the most whimsical way.

Whether you’re planning a Balboa Bay Club wedding or dreaming up your own coastal love story, we’d be honored to help tell it. Inquire today to see how we can turn your most romantic moments into timeless art.

Let the breeze carry you home. Let the light tell your story.

Balboa Bay Club Wedding Photos

Balboa Bay Club FAQ

Q: Is the Balboa Bay Club a private wedding venue?

A: Yes, the Balboa Bay Club is a private yacht club in Newport Beach, offering exclusive waterfront event spaces perfect for upscale coastal weddings.

Q: What kind of wedding theme works well at Balboa Bay Club?

A: Coastal, nautical, and Mediterranean themes pair beautifully with the venue’s yacht-side setting, clean architecture, and dreamy dockside views.

Q: Does Sun & Sparrow photograph weddings at Balboa Bay Club?

A: Yes! We love photographing at Balboa Bay Club. Its light, texture, and coastal charm are a perfect match for our whimsical and romantic storytelling style.

Q: Can guests stay at Balboa Bay Resort?

A: Absolutely. Balboa Bay Resort, located on the same property, offers luxury accommodations that make it easy for guests to relax and enjoy the wedding weekend.