Sacred Mountain Julian Wedding | San Diego Wedding Photographer

There is something so magical and ethereal about a rainy day. This foggy Sacred Mountain Julian wedding was exactly that: magical and ethereal. From the moment I received an inquiry from Nick and Lee, I knew how special this day would be. There was truly some strong forces at work here because this wedding took place just a few days before the entire state shut down for COVID-19 quarantine.

Sacred Mountain is an incredible venue located in the mountains of Julian, CA. They have so many places around their giant property for stunning photos, as well as multiple large houses for family and guests to stay or get ready in. Sacred Mountain is complete with a picturesque barn, a secret garden, a swimming pool, fields of grass for horses and a plateau that overlooks the layers upon layers of surrounding mountains. Even in the heavy fog and misty rain, this place was as beautiful as ever.

Nick and Lee are both members of the United States military and they showed their honor by wearing their uniforms on one of the most important days of their lives. After the grooms got ready with their closest friends and enjoyed some Julian Beer toasts, they met in a secluded area for a first look and private vow reading. Let me tell you, tears were shed! I was wiping my eyes while quietly listening to them pour their hearts to each other and it was everything my photographer heart could ever want!

After the vow reading, Nick and Lee were able to spend a few minutes alone to enjoy these moments and talk about their morning apart. Once the ceremony commenced, it was equally as heartfelt and emotional as the vow reading. The thick fog was so fitting for the mountain top venue and the national park theme of their reception! They had the most unique tablescape decor to showcase their love of the outdoors and it made me wish I had done something similar for my own wedding since i’m a giant nature nerd! Their cake was even designed to look like a tree stump with their initials carved in it. How perfect is that?!

The reception included THEE most emotional and well spoken toasts that I have ever heard at a wedding. Their friends and family put so much effort into making their speeches special and once again, tears were shed! I was incredibly moved by the amount of love that surrounds these two amazing humans.

The grooms each choreographed dances with their mothers and it was the best way to set off the night! The guests were ecstatic and when it was their turn to hit the dance floor, they did not disappoint! Nick and Lee really know how to throw a party and it was a night I will never forget!

These two have turned from clients into friends and I feel so thankful that photography has brought them into my life! Congratulations on your Sacred Mountain Julian wedding, Nick and Lee! I can’t wait to see you both again soon!

Vendors: Photographer: Samantha Phillips Photography / Venue: Sacred Mountain Julian / Catering: John Little Catering / Cake: Sweet Cheeks Baking / Pies: Mom’s Pies / H&MUA: Pretty Parlor Salon / DJ: My Djs / Florals: With Flourish / Bar: Snake Oil Cocktails