There’s something extra special about getting to photograph family—especially when it’s for a milestone as meaningful as an engagement. Kiana and Matt’s session at Monserate Winery in Southern California was pure magic. Between the golden light, the winding vineyard rows, and the way they looked at each other, it felt like a night where time stretched out just for them.
About the Location:
Monserate Winery, located in Fallbrook, California, is one of Southern California’s hidden gems for engagement photos. Tucked into the rolling hills just north of San Diego, the property offers sweeping views of endless vines, golden sunsets, and quiet, tucked-away corners that feel like you have the whole world to yourselves. The Mediterranean-style landscape, soft evening breezes, and stunning west-facing light make it a dream location for romantic, natural engagement photography.
Whether you’re envisioning an intimate vineyard stroll, a sun-soaked golden hour session, or simply a setting that feels effortless and timeless, Monserate Winery delivers it all. If you’re considering engagement photos in Southern California, this vineyard is a backdrop that turns every moment into something cinematic and unforgettable.
The Dress:
To add an extra layer of magic to their session, we partnered with Dalliance Gown Rentals, who so generously allowed us to use their gown titled Rayne.
“Rayne” is a soft whisper of elegance, adorned in hand-beaded florals and dreamy structure. Designed for showcasing intimate vows, golden hour portraits, and the kind of love that lingers, this gown felt like it was made for the moment. Flowing effortlessly through the vines, it added such a beautiful, ethereal quality to the day. If you’re dreaming of something unique and timeless for your engagement session, Dalliance Gown Rentals is truly worth exploring.
Session Details:
We spent the evening chasing golden light across the vineyard, letting the session unfold naturally. There was no over-posing or stiff moments — just Kiana and Matt being themselves, laughing, strolling, and soaking up the calmness of it all. These two have such a genuine, relaxed connection, and it made every frame feel effortless. As the sun dipped lower, we wrapped up with soft, glowy portraits that felt true to who they are: joyful, steady, and full of heart.
A Personal Note:
Though Kiana and I didn’t grow up side by side, our bond has been built over years of travels, visits, and creative projects. We met when we were teenagers, and since then, we’ve shared a love for dreaming big, creating freely, and cheering each other on through every season. Capturing this chapter of her life with Matt — someone who so clearly cherishes her for every part of who she is — felt incredibly full-circle.
Living in New York means I don’t get to see Kiana nearly as often as I’d like, but every trip back to California feels like coming home in a different way. Being able to combine my travels, my work, and moments like this with the people I cherish most is one of the greatest joys of what I do.
Closing Thoughts:
If you’re dreaming of engagement photos that feel natural, romantic, and full of light, Monserate Winery is a setting that brings it all to life. But more than the scenery, it’s about capturing the way your love feels — the way you hold each other, the way you laugh without even thinking about it, the quiet in-between moments that say more than words ever could.
Kiana and Matt’s session was a beautiful reminder that love doesn’t need to be overcomplicated to be unforgettable — it just needs to be yours.
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STRAIGHT FIREEEEEE