A Romantic Black-Tie Wedding at Monserate Winery in Fallbrook, California
Makenna and Alec Marsh met during their college years at Arizona State University, when Makenna played softball and Alec was on the baseball team. The two athletes eventually crossed paths at a college baseball party.
“I remember noticing him right away,” Makenna shares. “He was the older, cuter guy with an easy smile and a quiet confidence that stood out. As athletes, we instantly bonded over our love of sports and the unique experience of balancing school and competition. It felt like we understood each other from the beginning.”
Years later, Alec planned a romantic proposal at one of their favorite places – Wrigley Mansion in Phoenix, Arizona.
“As athletes, we instantly bonded over our love of sports and the unique experience of balancing school and competition.”
“As we stepped onto the terrace overlooking the desert skyline,” Makenna describes, “I noticed hidden photographers and videographers capturing the moment. I instantly started crying. Then Alec got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. It was surreal. We celebrated afterward with a private dinner inside the mansion’s elegant restaurant, soaking in every second of what had just happened.”
A Romantic Black-Tie Wedding at Monserate Winery in California
The couple’s wedding planning process was filled with joy and excitement from the start, and the bride-to-be had a wonderful time working with her mom to bring her dream wedding to life. After carefully selecting each vendor, every detail came together perfectly. Having chosen Monserate Winery in Fallbrook, California, and Italian-inspired winery with a stunning ambiance, the wedding day felt like something out of a fairytale.
The couple chose to have a black-tie wedding, emphasizing the timeless, romantic setting of Monserate Winery. A black and white color palette was used for the décor, keeping the aesthetic elegant and sophisticated. Guests were also asked to wear black, white allowed the bride and groom to stand out in white. As a result, the wedding photos turned out to be a breathtaking selection of captures that looked like stills from a movie.
“There are so many moments from that day that will stay with us forever,” says Makenna, “but two stand out above the rest. The first was during our ceremony, when we shared our personal vows. It was emotional, intimate, and everything we hoped it would be. The second came at the end of the night, when the venue had emptied and we had our private last dance. Just the two of us wrapped in each other’s arms, holding onto every second. That moment was ours alone – a perfect way to end a perfect day.”
Honeymooning in Playa del Carmen
The newlyweds followed up their black-tie wedding celebration by honeymooning in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, staying at La Casa de la Playa.
“It was, without exaggeration, the most spectacular resort we’ve ever visited,” Makenna adds. “With only 60 rooms on the property, it felt like our own private paradise. The crystal blue water, the infinity pools, the delicious cocktails – it was heaven. The standout part of the honeymoon we will never forget was the food!
Alec and I are huge foodies, and one of the most unforgettable experiences of the trip was dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant right on the resort property. Every dish was a masterpiece, and the flavors were out of this world. It wasn’t just a meal – it was an experience. Overall, this was a time in our lives that we both wish we can relive.”
WEDDING TALENT
Location: Monserate Winery, Fallbrook, CA; Planner: Dre Carlin; Floral Design: Brandi Nicole Floral Design; Cake: Sweetly Blessed Baker; Invitations: Zola; Entertainment: Conner DJ Decon; Wedding Dress: Eva Lendel; Bridal Salon: Wona Bridal LA; Reception Dress: Nandine Merabi; Hair: Laren Millan; Makeup: Alexis Nicholas; Groom’s Attire: State of Liberty; Engagement Ring: Jeff Shaw; Photography: Maewood Collective