Tom Ham’s Lighthouse Wedding Photography: Rhianna & Sherilyn’s Romantic San Diego Celebration
There’s something undeniably magical about a waterfront wedding in San Diego, especially when it’s just days before Valentine’s Day. Rhianna and Sherilyn’s celebration at Tom Ham's Lighthouse was the perfect blend of romance, coastal beauty, and joyful energy.
With a rich color palette of dark purple and white, elegant orchid florals, and a love story rooted in friendship, their wedding day felt deeply personal from beginning to end. Set against sweeping bay views and the San Diego skyline, every moment reflected both the beauty of the location and the strength of their connection.
Getting Ready in Matching Robes
The day began at a nearby hotel in San Diego, where Rhianna and Sherilyn each got ready with their closest friends. One of the sweetest details from the morning was their matching purple and white robes, which perfectly tied into the wedding’s overall color palette.
The energy in the room was a mix of excitement and calm anticipation. Friends helping with final touches, sharing stories, and soaking in the significance of the day ahead. These getting-ready moments always set the tone, and for Rhianna and Sherilyn, it was filled with love and intention.
A Waterfront Ceremony with City Views
Their ceremony at Tom Ham's Lighthouse featured one of the most iconic backdrops in the area: panoramic views of the water with the San Diego skyline stretching across the horizon. Palm trees swayed gently nearby, adding that unmistakable classic San Diego vibe, while the deep purple and white florals (especially the orchids) brought an elegant, romantic touch to the space.
But what made the ceremony truly unforgettable was the story behind it. Rhianna and Sherilyn’s relationship began as a friendship, and their ceremony beautifully honored that journey, two best friends who found love in each other.
They also incorporated deeply personal elements into the ceremony, including a sand pouring tradition, symbolizing the blending of their lives, and a custom secret handshake that had guests smiling through happy tears. These moments made the ceremony feel uniquely theirs, playful, emotional, and full of meaning.
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, the entire moment felt even more meaningful, like a celebration of love in its purest form.
Golden Hour Portraits with the San Diego Skyline
After the ceremony, we took full advantage of the waterfront setting for couples portraits along the bay. With the water and the San Diego skyline in the background, the setting created a timeless and cinematic feel.
One of the most fun details we captured was Rhianna and Sherilyn’s matching white Converse sneakers, which revealed a hidden surprise on the bottom: “Just Married.” It was such a playful, personal touch that perfectly reflected their personalities and added a modern twist to their wedding style.
Between the glowing light, the palm trees, and the coastal breeze, these portraits captured everything that makes a San Diego waterfront wedding so special, effortless, romantic, and full of personality.
Cocktail Hour Right on the Bay
Guests transitioned seamlessly into cocktail hour, which took place right along the water. With uninterrupted views of the bay and skyline, it was the perfect setting for guests to mingle, enjoy drinks, and take in the scenery.
This is one of the biggest advantages of hosting a wedding here, everything flows naturally, and guests get to experience multiple perspectives of the venue without ever leaving the property.
A Lively Ballroom Reception
As the evening continued, everyone moved inside for the reception in the venue’s ballroom. The celebration quickly shifted from emotional to energetic, with heartfelt speeches giving way to a packed dance floor.
The purple and white theme carried throughout the reception space, tying together the entire day’s design. Between the laughter, music, and constant movement on the dance floor, it was clear that this was a group ready to celebrate Rhianna and Sherilyn to the fullest.
From their emotional ceremony to the lively reception, the entire day felt like a perfect balance, deeply meaningful and incredibly fun.
A Valentine’s-Inspired Wedding to Remember
Being just days before Valentine’s Day, Rhianna and Sherilyn’s wedding naturally carried a romantic, love-filled atmosphere. But beyond the timing, it was their story, rooted in friendship and built on years of connection, that made the day so special! Their wedding at Tom Ham's Lighthouse was a beautiful reminder that the best love stories often start in the most genuine places.
For couples planning a San Diego waterfront wedding, this venue offers everything you could want: stunning views, classic coastal charm, and a seamless flow from ceremony to celebration.
Whether it's San Diego or the San Francisco Bay Area, my team and I are here for to capture your love story! Check out our packages and get in touch through our contact form to check our availability for your upcoming wedding: https://www.tangerineweddings.com/pricing
Rhianna and Sherilyn's dream team:
Venue: Tom Ham's Lighthouse
Photography: Kelsey Nevell Photography
Videography: Raul Z Video
