When planning their fairy-tale wedding in Laguna Beach, California, Monica Mikhail and Shawn Massoud chose to design an exquisite event with an elegant aesthetic that allowed the stunning ocean-view setting to stand out. 

Following a traditional church ceremony, the couple and their loved ones gathered at a luxury hotel for the alfresco celebration of the bride’s dreams. She was gorgeous in a strapless lace gown and a romantic veil featuring a vine embroidery draped over her long tresses, while bridesmaids wore sleek, cowl-neck silk gowns in a champagne tone for the summer fête. The groom was dapper in a tuxedo with a hand-tied bow tie for the fête. 

As loved ones arrived at the hotel, they discovered their seating assignments on acrylic pieces attached to a modern three-piece arch display showcasing “Love They Neighbor” signage. “Having all our family with us was very important,” shares the bride of their wedding day, which they initially weren’t sure would happen due to the pandemic. When it finally did, however, they were overjoyed to say “I do” in front of family and friends. 

“My favorite part of our wedding was the flowers – they were stunning!”

Wedding guests took their seats for dinner atop mirrored gilt chairs with white cushions arranged on a vast lawn facing the sea. Tables showcased luxurious linens by Luxe Linen, as well as beautiful low centerpieces in shades of vanilla and blush accented with light greenery to not distract from the views of the ocean. 

“My favorite part of our wedding was the flowers – they were stunning!” exclaims Monica, who sat at a romantic sweetheart table covered with lush blooms in front of a whimsical floral backdrop. 

Following the sit-down dinner service, guests enjoyed slices of the pair’s simple, yet elegant wedding cake featuring five layers decorated with more fresh flowers in shades of pink. 

While plenty of dancing ensued on the outdoor dance floor beneath shimmering crystal chandeliers, the newlyweds and their nearest and dearest moved indoors at 10PM for more dancing during the “after glow” that kept the party going into the night.