Rio Hondo by Wedgewood Wedding Photos – Downey Wedding Photographer
RIO HONDO BY WEDGEWOOD WEDDING | SARA & DAVID
Sara and David’s wedding was shot in the late afternoon—located in Downey, Rio Hondo by Wedgewood is a hidden gem that combines a classic golf course setting with a private garden feel. For Sara and David, the waterfall ceremony site provided a stunning, tranquil backdrop that feels miles away from the city. As a wedding photographer, I love this venue because it offers everything in one place—lush greenery for portraits, a spacious terrace for cocktail hour, and a modern ballroom for the reception. If you’re planning something similar, this gallery gives a clear look at how Rio Hondo photographs when the light hits just right.
Why Rio Hondo is a Downey Wedding Gem
THE WATERFALL CEREMONY
The standout feature at Rio Hondo is the private waterfall ceremony site. Tucked away from the main clubhouse, it creates a secluded, garden-like atmosphere that blocks out the city noise. For Sara and David, this provided a serene, natural backdrop for their vows without us having to leave the property to find greenery.
SUNSET ON THE FAIRWAYS
One of the perks of a golf course wedding is the wide-open horizon. We timed the portraits for "Golden Hour," taking the couple out to the fairways just as the sun dipped behind the trees. The open green space acts as a natural reflector, giving skin tones a clean, luminous look that defines my photography style.
COCKTAIL HOUR ON THE TERRACE
The flow at Rio Hondo is seamless. Guests moved straight from the ceremony to the spacious outdoor terrace for cocktail hour. This elevated patio overlooks the course and allows for a relaxed transition before moving into the Grand Ballroom for the reception. It keeps the energy high and the guests comfortable.
Related Sessions
MARK + ANGIE
THE HIDDEN STONE PALACE
RHEMA+PEDRO
UKRAINIAN BAPTIST CHURCH
LAUREN+DANE
MAR MONTE HOTEL
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Yes, the ceremony area is tucked away from the main golf course, so you don't have golfers walking through your vows. The waterfall provides natural white noise that blocks out the city sounds, making it feel very intimate.
-
Absolutely. Rio Hondo allows us to take golf carts out to specific spots on the greens. We usually schedule this for "Golden Hour" (sunset) to get those glowing, wide landscape shots with the trees and fairways.
-
Yes, Rio Hondo is one of the larger Wedgewood properties. The Grand Ballroom can host up to 300 guests, and the outdoor terrace is perfect for mingling during cocktail hour without feeling crowded.