A Romantic Wedding at Scripps Seaside Forum
Today’s couple chose Scripps Seaside Forum for its oceanfront location, modern architecture, and direct views of the coast. Their wedding took place on a bright La Jolla day, with the Pacific Ocean visible throughout the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception. One of my favorite things about this venue is its clean, minimal design, which allows the coastal setting to remain the focus.
My approach to photographing this Scripps Seaside Forum wedding was to document the day as it naturally unfolded. This is how I approach every wedding, but this bride specifically wanted a hands-off experience with an emphasis on candid images. I photographed the larger events alongside the quieter interactions, guest reactions and in-between moments that helped tell the complete story. The strong coastal light and architectural lines also created opportunities for artful portraits without turning the wedding into a photoshoot.
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What to Know Before Booking Scripps Seaside Forum
I have photographed more than five weddings at Scripps Seaside Forum, and each one has given me a better understanding of how the venue works throughout the day. It is an incredible place to photograph, and I always find a new angle, background, or way to use the architecture and coastal setting.
You truly cannot go wrong with this venue, but there are a few practical details worth considering as you plan. These are some of the things I have observed while photographing weddings here and what I recommend keeping in mind before finalizing your layout, timeline, and overall event design.
1. Choose the Placement of Your Sweetheart Table Carefully
There are two primary locations for the sweetheart table. You can place it toward the back of the reception hall, where you will still be nicely lit even though you are farther from the main source of natural light. The other option is to place it at the front of the room, facing the reception space. Keep in mind that the sunset will be directly behind you in this location. Backlighting is not necessarily a bad thing, but it can place you in more of a silhouette and create challenges for both photography and videography. Flash and additional room lighting can help compensate, but the placement is worth considering when thinking about the overall look of your gallery.
2. Use the Courtyard for Large Group Photos
The large courtyard near the venue’s main entrance works especially well for wedding party and family portraits. It has clean lines, minimal distractions, and a classic combination of concrete and wood. The architecture creates a neutral backdrop with enough space to accommodate larger groups comfortably.
3. Keep the Size of the Bridal Suite in Mind
The on-site bridal suite has beautiful natural light, but the space itself is small. So, if you have a large bridal party or plan to bring a lot of bags, clothing, and personal items that will need to be stored throughout the day, do keep this in mind.
4. Take Advantage of the Portrait Locations
There are plenty of options for couples portraits onsite and in the areas surrounding the forum. I recommend incorporating the venue’s unique architecture upstairs, which gives the images a clean, modern, and distinctive look. There are gardens, greenery, and the front lawn overlooking the horizon. Walking down toward the beach can provide even more variety if there is enough time built into the wedding timeline.
5. Add Comfortable Lounge Areas for Guests
Consider bringing in furniture to create small lounges or seating areas during cocktail hour and the reception. These spaces give guests another place to sit, gather, and have conversations away from the main dining area. Lounge furniture can also help define the venue’s large outdoor spaces and make the overall layout feel more intentional and comfortable.
6. Prepare for Changing Coastal Weather
Because the venue is located directly along the coast, the weather and lighting can change quickly. Umbrellas or shaded seating may be helpful for guest comfort, especially during the ceremony and cocktail hour. The ceremony typically takes place on the lawn, so the lighting will depend heavily on the conditions that day. You may experience bright direct sunlight, areas of strong light and shadow, or soft overcast skies. Each situation can be photographed well, but unpredictable weather and lighting are important considerations when planning any coastal wedding.
About Scripps Seaside Forum in La Jolla
Scripps Seaside Forum is an oceanfront event venue located on the Scripps Institution of Oceanography campus in La Jolla. The venue features a modern design with clean lines and a combination of materials, including glass, concrete and natural wood. With views of the Pacific Ocean and Scripps Pier, Scripps Seaside Forum offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, including a reception hall, lawn and coastal plaza. It is a strong option for couples who want an oceanfront setting, spacious indoor access, flexible event areas and coastal views throughout the property, all within a location near La Jolla’s beaches, hotels and restaurants.
The Ceremony & Reception Spaces at Scripps Seaside Forum
The ceremony at Scripps Seaside Forum typically takes place on the oceanfront lawn, with views of the Pacific and Scripps Pier. Lighting can vary throughout the day, especially near the coast, so conditions may range from bright sun to soft overcast skies. Receptions are held inside the main hall, which opens to the coastal plaza and provides room for dining and dancing. Couples should consider sweetheart table placement carefully, since a table facing the sunset may create strong backlighting. The venue’s clean architecture, open layout and indoor-outdoor flow make it easy to move guests between each part of the event.
Accommodations for Wedding Guests in La Jolla
Guests attending a Scripps Seaside Forum wedding have several accommodation options throughout La Jolla and nearby coastal neighborhoods. Hotels range from larger properties near La Jolla Shores to smaller boutique stays closer to the Village. Many are within a short drive of the venue, though rideshare or arranged transportation is often the easiest option. The area also offers restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores and beach access for guests staying through the weekend. San Diego International Airport is about 20 to 30 minutes away without heavy traffic. Because parking can be limited, couples should provide transportation and parking details in advance.
Five Local Hotels to Consider
- La Jolla Shores Hotel
A convenient beachfront option with on-site dining and direct access to La Jolla Shores. - Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton
A modern hotel near the beach with a restaurant, pool and views of the surrounding area. - La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club
A beachfront resort offering dining, tennis, a pool and additional recreational amenities. - Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
A higher-end hotel near UC San Diego with restaurants, landscaped grounds and a full-service spa. - Residence Inn San Diego La Jolla
A practical option for families and longer stays, with suites, kitchens and complimentary breakfast.
Best Activities in the La Jolla Area
La Jolla is one of San Diego’s most popular destinations, drawing visitors from around the world for its coastal views, seafood, sea caves and tide pools. It is a destination of its own and worth adding an extra night to your stay so you can explore the area and enjoy some classic Southern California sunshine. Here are five popular things to do while you are in town.
Mount Soledad
Drive to the summit for panoramic views of La Jolla, the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding San Diego area.
La Jolla Cove
Walk the coastal path, see the sea lions and explore the nearby shops, galleries and restaurants.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Hike the coastal trails for views of the Pacific Ocean, sandstone cliffs and native Torrey pine trees.
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Explore marine exhibits, interactive tide pools and ocean science displays located minutes from the venue.
La Jolla Shores
Spend a few hours swimming, walking along the beach, taking a surf lesson or relaxing at Kellogg Park.
Scripps Seaside Forum FAQ
What’s the Best Time of Year for Wedding Photos at Scripps Seaside Forum?
Spring through fall typically offers longer evenings and more flexibility for portraits, while winter can bring softer skies and clearer coastal views. No matter the season, it is important to plan for wind, shifting temperatures, and the marine layer.
What Happens if It’s Overcast or Rainy?
Overcast conditions can photograph beautifully at Scripps Seaside Forum because the light is soft, even, and flattering. For rain, confirm the indoor options and backup plan with the venue and your planner before the wedding.
Do You Photograph Weddings on Film and Digital?
Yes, I use both film and digital throughout the day based on the light, the setting and the moment. Digital provides flexibility and reliability, while film adds texture, depth and a distinct sense of storytelling.
More San Diego Venues You’ll Love for Storytelling Photography
- Explore Tivoli Wedding Photography
- Read about The San Diego Yacht Club
- Looking for more inspiration? Visit THE BLOG for more info
Meet Your Scripps Seaside Forum Wedding Photographer
Hi, I’m Teresa LoJacono, a San Diego documentary wedding photographer specializing in candid, artful imagery captured on film and digital. I photograph weddings throughout San Diego, La Jolla, Los Angeles and California’s Central Coast for couples who want to stay present, enjoy their people and receive an honest record of how the day actually felt.
If you are planning a Scripps Seaside Forum wedding and want true-to-color photographs, natural direction when needed and a calm, hands-off approach throughout the rest of the day, I would love to hear what you are planning.
Hit the contact form → Inquire Here! I cant wait to connect!
My photography is a blend of art, experience, and instinct—a little bit of this, a little bit of that.
For over 15 years, I’ve been immersed in the world of photography. It all started when I was 18 and stepped into a darkroom for the first time. That moment sparked a lifelong obsession with capturing the world through my lens. It eventually lead me to the fine art space, collaborating with artists, managing studios, and working alongside galleries and museums.
Through years of studying art and photography—both in undergraduate and graduate school—my aesthetic evolved under the influence of critical theory and contemporary art. I found myself drawn to the intersection of traditional documentary photography and spontaneous, unfiltered moments of real life. My goal is to create images that are raw, honest, and deeply human.
Travel plays a huge role in my creative process. I find inspiration in the unfamiliar—letting light, movement, and emotion guide my eye. Photography is my way of making sense of the world, turning fleeting moments into lasting stories. With a camera in hand, everything becomes a canvas and a chance to reveal the unexpected.
