Real Wedding: Julie & Mike

Julie Bromley and Michael Persall, both 34, met during Opening Day at the 2011 Del Mar Races. Then Michael, who goes by Mike, saw Julie, a San Diego native, in a yoga class in Solana Beach. He made up a barbeque at the house of a mutual friend with the hopes of seeing Julie again and having the opportunity to ask her out. In June 2013, overlooking Morro Bay Rock, Mike gave Julie her own rock to wear. They were married in front of 170 guests in a festive New Year’s Eve celebration.

A Holiday Celebration

Winter weddings are a custom for Julie’s family. Her parents were married the day after Christmas more than 30 years ago, and Julie had always imagined she would continue the tradition.

Location, Location, Location

Rancho Valencia was the perfect combination of convenience and sentiment for Mike and Julie. The two loved the idea of a San Diego wedding that most of their friends and family could easily attend on New Year’s Eve. Also, the couple had spent a few date nights and spa days at Rancho V. prior to choosing the venue.

Something Borrowed

Julie wore a mink stole, a family heirloom gifted from one of her bridesmaids.

Dancing and Desserts

Dinner took place in a tent on the croquet lawn. For the after-party, the ballroom was transformed into a modern lounge. Guests were also encouraged to indulge in champagne and desserts in the wine cellar adjacent to the ballroom.