Monserate Winery | Fallbrook, CA
Brianna and David originally found me while searching for an engagement photographer, and from the moment we met at La Jolla Shores—under the pier, golden light bouncing off the waves—it was clear how in tune they were with each other.
They’ve been growing together since high school, and they chose their wedding day to land on the anniversary of the day they met—which happened to fall on a Tuesday. Because of course it did. And honestly? That made me love them even more.
Getting Ready
Bri and David spent the morning apart, getting ready in separate spaces at the gorgeous Monserate Winery in Fallbrook. Bri’s space was laughter-filled with just the right amount of chaos. While her bridesmaids got ready in matching pink silk PJs (with the moms in blue—so cute), she sat down and focused on writing her vows. She was calm and radiant. A little bubble of stillness in the middle of the bridal buzz.
We did a bridesmaids first look and oh my god—the reactions. They were stunned. Bri’s dress had off-the-shoulder sleeves, the perfect amount of sparkle, and hugged her curves in all the right ways. She looked like a goddess.
Meanwhile, David’s room was all chill. Beers straight from the tap. A poker game going on at the table. It was calm, cool, collected—just like him. Classic groom prep.
The First Look
Their first look was private. Originally, we had talked about letting the wedding party watch from a distance, but I gently suggested, “Hey… what if it’s just you two?” They said yes, and I’m so glad they did.
We found a quiet spot by the garden wall, surrounded by Mediterranean architecture and olive trees. Instead of reading their vows aloud, they swapped vow books and read them silently. It was such an intimate, tender moment. A little misty-eyed. And the way Dave looked at Bri? Ughh. That look didn’t leave his face all day.
Family & Wedding Party Photos
We took these right outside the gates and the light was tricky (midday sun can be such a butthead), but we got creative with angles and light, and ended up with some glowy backlit shots of the bridesmaids that are chef’s kiss. Everyone looked amazing and brought the energy.
The Ceremony
The ceremony took place on the lawn, just before sunset. A harpist played softly. Birds chirped near the pond. A waterfall spilled gently in the background. And under an arch of white and blush roses, Bri and Dave promised forever.
It was short, sweet, and overflowing with love. You could feel how supported they were—surrounded by the people who helped them grow from high school sweethearts into life partners. And okay, I admit it—I made them redo their kiss at the end of the aisle. Normally I hate disrupting the flow of the recessional, but I couldn't NOT step in. (Please don’t hate me, B&D. I think it was worth it!)
Bride and Groom Portraits
The sun had dipped behind the mountain by the time we started portraits, but we chased the glow to the other side of the vineyard and found magic. Arches, cobblestone paths, warm tones—dreamy doesn't even begin to cover it. The light may have faded, but their energy lit up every frame.
Reception
The reception was a party. No speeches. (Yes, really. And it was amazing.) Bri and Dave just wanted to celebrate. And celebrate they did.
Dinner? Absolutely delicious. Filet, mashed potatoes, asparagus—I literally took a photo and sent it to my boyfriend because it was that good. First dance? Beautiful. But the father-daughter dance? Might’ve been my favorite.
And then—plot twist—Bri changed into the cutest short bridal dress and slipped on a pair of chucks. So did Dave. Comfort level: elite. Style level: 10/10. They danced the night away with all their favorite people, and when Dave’s sister caught the bouquet, the room exploded with cheers.
Final Thoughts
There were a million little moments that made this day special, but the one I keep coming back to is how Dave looked at Bri. All day. Every moment. With the kind of love that doesn’t need grand gestures or speeches—it’s just there. Constant. Steady. Soul-deep.
To my future couples: do your day your way. Whether it’s private vows, a Tuesday ceremony, no speeches, or swapping heels for sneakers—lean into what feels good for you. That’s where the magic lives. And that’s the kind of love I’ll always be honored to photograph.
To B&D
Thank you for trusting me to capture your day. It has been such a joy witnessing your love. You made everything feel easy and full of heart. Wishing you a lifetime of quiet vows and golden hour magic. 🤍
—Jen
Bri & Dave's Vendor Team
Venue | Monserate Winery | @monseratewinery
Planner | Finer Events & Co. | @finerevents.co
Florals | Draping Wedding | @drapingwedding
Hair & Makeup | Aly Rose Beauty Team | @alyrosebeautyteam
Photography | Jen Bauer Photography | @jenbauerphotography
Videography | Joy Photo & Video | @joyphotoandvideo
DJ | Classic Cuts DJs | @classiccutsmobiledjs
If you’re planning a wedding that feels true to you—whether it’s big, small, or somewhere in between—I’ll to be there to capture it. I’m all about the real stuff: the connection, the emotion, and the moments you don’t want to forget.
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