Brooke and Joe’s Ole Hanson Beach Club wedding in San Clemente was nothing short of a vibrant, summer day (despite taking place in February)! Set against the serene waterfront and sunlit skies , it was the ideal SoCal winter celebration. Known for its breathtaking views, the beach club provided the most perfect backdrop for a day filled with celebration! 

Coffee to Celebrations

I met up with Brooke and Joe at the adorable Hopper & Burr coffee shop in downtown Santa Ana. We captured their engagement in a very relaxed session that perfectly encapsulated their vibe. It was important to them that  their engagement photos mirrored their typical dates—simple, real, and full of personal moments like enjoying coffee and each other’s company. Originally, they had considered a more modest courthouse wedding followed by a family dinner.

However, as their plans evolved, they chose to celebrate more expansively and selected the stunning Ole Hanson Beach Club as their wedding venue. Together, they designed a garden party-themed wedding that harmonized beautifully with the outdoor setting, featuring lively colors, whimsical patterns, and playful ruffles that matched their floral arrangement choices beautifully. The attention to detail was evident, showcasing their commitment to creating a cohesive and thoughtful celebration!!

Capturing Candid Moments

Choosing to focus on candid photography, Brooke and Joe wanted their wedding photos to capture the real emotions– especially those joyous moments throughout the day. This approach allowed them to document the heartfelt interactions among their guests and the true essence of their celebration, all while being free from the constraints of a traditional, tightly-scheduled event. I loved how relaxed they both were, just letting the day flow naturally.

Unexpected Surprises

An unexpected guest—a massive orange construction crane at the venue—provided a humorous twist to their wedding story…haha. I was not surprised at all when Brooke and Joe embraced this quirky surprise with their characteristic humor, adding a unique and memorable element to their gallery. This ability to laugh in the face of surprises really goes to show how easygoing their characters are!!

One surprise for me, Brooke and Joe told me early on during their wedding that they wanted to sneak away from the reception so they could go get a hot dog from 7/11 with a few of their friends. They both LOVE 7/11 and knew they’d want to enjoy a late night snack. Easy enough, there was a 7/11 across the street from Ole Hanson, so we headed over after dark for a memorable bite! My first time with a bride and groom at 7/11 on their wedding day, but something tells me, it also won’t be the last!

A Day to Cherish

Brooke and Joe’s wedding at Ole Hanson Beach Club was a celebration not just of their love, but also of their journey together—relaxed, fun-filled, and truly memorable. The perfect weather, GORGEOUS venue, and vibrant atmosphere all combined to make this day spectacular! Cheers to the happy couple!! 

Loving this vibrant SoCal wedding? Check out more weddings from our blog like this La Jolla Women’s Club Wedding!

FAQ

What features make Ole Hanson Beach Club a prime choice for outdoor weddings in Orange County? Explore the club’s distinctive ocean views, historical architecture, and its reputation for exceptional service, which together create a perfect backdrop for memorable ceremonies and receptions.

How does the Ole Hanson Beach Club accommodate different weather conditions for outdoor weddings? Discuss the club’s strategies for dealing with unpredictable weather, including contingency plans for rain or excessive wind, to ensure that your day remains beautiful regardless of the forecast.

What are the benefits and challenges of hosting an outdoor wedding at a beach club like Ole Hanson? Address the allure of scenic views and open-air venues against the logistical considerations needed for guest comfort and event success in a coastal setting.