There’s just something about a Surf Hotel wedding that makes everything feel more intentional. The sound of the river, the quiet strength of the mountains, the way the architecture gives every corner a sense of purpose. Katy and Tom’s wedding was the perfect blend of romance and fun, elegant and easygoing, timeless and personal. It felt like them from beginning to end.

Getting Ready at the Surf Hotel and Chateau

Katy and Tom chose to get ready separately, which created the perfect build-up to their emotional first look. She spent the morning in one of the balcony rooms at the Surf Hotel, surrounded by her closest friends and the softest light pouring in through the windows. Tom got ready across the path in the more tucked-away Surf Chateau, keeping things calm with his guys and their pup Honey — who absolutely stole the show every time she appeared.

First Look by the River

They saw each other for the first time on the riverfront, just the two of them and the sound of water moving in the background. We’ll be honest, we all cried. The nerves they’d felt that morning disappeared the second they were in each other’s arms. This is one of the reasons we love a first look. It creates space. It gives you the chance to slow down before the day really begins.

Their Ceremony in the Courtyard

Katy and Tom said their vows in the ivy-covered Chateau Courtyard, surrounded by their guests but wrapped in the kind of intimacy that only comes from being fully present. Even with a large guest count, it felt close and grounded. They included a beautiful unity water pouring ritual — a symbolic and deeply personal moment that made the ceremony feel even more sacred.

Parking was easy for guests with a mix of street and venue access, and no permits were needed. The lighting that afternoon was soft and golden, making the entire courtyard glow. It was romantic, heartfelt, and fun in all the best ways.

Portraits All Around the Surf Hotel

We split portraits before and after the ceremony to chase the best light and let Katy and Tom actually enjoy their cocktail hour. And when we say we shot everywhere, we mean it. The river. The elevator. The bar. That iconic Surf Hotel sign. We even had a few Aperol spritzes make a guest appearance.

They brought the energy too — sunglasses, champagne, and dance moves that set the tone for the rest of the night. Portraits felt more like hanging out with friends than posing for photos, which is always the goal.

Reception in the Ivy Ballroom

As the sun set behind the peaks, guests made their way into the Ivy Ballroom for dinner and dancing. The space was filled with candlelight, warm tones, and subtle touches of mauve and dusty pink that tied everything together. Aperol spritzes flowed, toasts brought the house down, and the dance floor was packed from the first song to the last.

Why We Love Surf Hotel Weddings

This venue is truly one of our favorites. You have mountains, rivers, architecture, and luxury all in one place. Everything is walkable, stunning in every season, and flexible for whatever kind of day you’re dreaming up. Katy and Tom brought their full selves to the day — stylish, emotional, playful — and the Surf Hotel gave them the perfect canvas to do it.

Planning a wedding at the Surf Hotel?

We’d love to photograph it in a way that feels true to you. Reach out to see if we’re a fit. We’re already dreaming about the light in that courtyard and what story we’ll get to tell next.