Summer and I got married!
It was everything we hoped for – personal, joyful, and unforgettable. The entire celebration took place on Shelter Island in San Diego, and we feel incredibly lucky that nearly all our guests flew in to join us. That alone meant the world. Most of our guests stayed at Kona Kai Resort (www.resortkonakai.com) – a stunning beach resort right on the island. The wedding itself was just down the street at Bali Hai (www.balihairestaurant.com), a place close to my heart – it’s where my grandparents used to go for date nights when they were in their 20s.
The Boat Party
Instead of the traditional bachelor and bachelorette parties, we decided to start the weekend off with something everyone could enjoy: a full-blown boat party.
We chartered the Triton – the largest catamaran/yacht in San Diego – and took 30 to 40 friends out on the bay. It had everything: an open bar, taco bar, waterslide, and even golf ball target practice into the ocean (with biodegradable, fish-food golf balls, of course). We swam, danced, laughed, and reconnected. For many, it was a reunion from my 30th birthday in Cabo the year before. It gave everyone a chance to mingle, so by the time the wedding rolled around, we were all one big crew.
It was a wild kickoff. Afterward, we took Friday to recover a bit before the main event.
Rehearsal Dinner
On Friday, the vibe mellowed out. Most of us spent the day lounging at the resort, and that evening, we gathered for our rehearsal dinner at Solare (https://solarelounge.com), a fantastic Italian spot in Liberty Station.
The food was phenomenal. My dad gave a heartfelt speech that had us all reflecting and smiling. Some folks kept the night going with a hot tub and fire pit hangout – Summer and I headed to bed early to be ready for the big day.
The Big Day
Saturday was the main event. I was promptly kicked out of the suite so the bridal party could start getting ready, so I took over a cabana at the pool. We played bags, ping pong, swam, and just chilled before it was time to get dressed and do photos.
We arranged a San Diego trolley to shuttle everyone between the resort and the venue. Riding open-air along the water was a perfect way to set the tone.
The ceremony at Bali Hai was stunning. The weather was perfect. The city skyline shimmered in the background. Alex Scavone officiated and delivered a beautiful, romantic ceremony. It felt intimate and celebratory – the exact energy we were hoping for.
Let’s Dance
The reception? Unreal. Incredible food, a beautiful sunset, and just one great speech – from my new father-in-law – warm, funny, and full of love.
We kept it simple. No speeches. No first dance. Just vibes. The bridal party took to the dance floor to Flo Rida’s “Welcome to My House” – and from that moment on, it was a party. The dance floor didn’t slow down until we were literally kicked out at closing time.
The after party moved to Club Marina, where the night continued with more drinks, pool, and an impromptu skeeball tournament. I was totally beat after days of celebration – so I tapped out after the reception – but the party raged on.
Winding Down
On Sunday, most of our friends stuck around to hang by the pool and resort, soaking up one more day of fun. Summer and I stayed one more night in our suite, enjoying a quiet moment to reflect and recharge before heading home – as husband and wife.
Grateful
What a whirlwind. We will likely never again have so many people we love in one place, and we’ll cherish those memories forever.
Thank you to everyone who made the trip, who danced with us, laughed with us, and helped make it the most special weekend of our lives.
Here’s to a lifetime together – I’m so excited to be married to Mrs. Summer Wheeler.
– Vince