This elegant Lord of the Rings wedding comes to us bathed in gorgeous golden light, love, and romance, photographed by David Mendoza III at the stunning 30-acre Villa Loriana in San Luis Obispo, California. With canyon views, a medieval castle, and rolling hills for a backdrop, the day was ideal for this LOTR-obsessed couple.

“The bride, Amanda, does cosplay and she found a sophisticated way to incorporate her love for that into her wedding day,” says Mendoza, who takes an editorial storytelling approach to his wedding photography. 

One of the most prominent themes in the Lord of the Rings enterprise, adds Mendoza, is the enduring power of love and friendship, and this wedding had that in abundance. “As stressful as planning a wedding can be, the couple did a masterful job of creating a mythical atmosphere without losing sight of what was important—love and friendship,” the photographer explains. “They made time to visit each guest, incorporate the groom’s brother (who, sadly, couldn’t be at the wedding), and did so graciously. It was obvious that their community felt their love and wanted to celebrate this incredible couple.”

We love the way the bride and groom took elements from the LOTR theme and beautifully wove them into her fashion and the wedding decor. From the choice of venue with the iron chandeliers to the bride’s Galia Lahav dress and ear cuffs, to the invitations, table signs and artwork, it all looks chic and gorgeous without looking obvious or overdone. 

Of course, every wedding comes with a few challenges for the photographer, but Mendoza approached this head on. “We had this gorgeous light at sunset streaming through the trees, but it lacked some texture,” he explains, “the property owners didn’t hesitate for a second when I asked them to kick up some dirt with their off-road vehicle and create some light beams.” Using his ingenuity and lighting skills, Mendoza beautifully captured this LOTR wedding throughout the day from bright light to sunset along with changing reception lighting scenarios.

For more from David Mendoza III, visit his profile at World's Best Wedding Photos. 

Photographed with a Canon R5, Canon 28-70 F2.0, Canon 50mm F1.2, Canon 135 F2.0, Sigma 20mm 1.8, MagMod Spheres, MagMod Gels and Canon Flashes.

Credits: 

Hair - Amanda N. with Fairytale Hair and Makeup

Makeup - Lacy with 805 Makeup

Gown designer/retailer - Galia Lahav, from The White Dress

Bridesmaids attire - Azazie in steel blue

Groom + groomsmen attire - The Black Tux

Florist - Ricardo from Elegant Details

Planner/Day of Coordinator - Live and Love Events

Caterer - Trumpet Vine Catering

Invitations - Paper Truly

Videographer - Forever Rooted Films

Wedding Cake - Pardon my French