Intimate Coastal Wedding at Agape 1928 | Kathleen & Dave

Tucked amid the timeless streets of San Clemente’s historic downtown, Agape 1928 radiates old-world charm and served as the perfect backdrop for Kathleen & Dave’s unforgettable wedding day. With its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, ocean views and intimate atmosphere, Agape 1928 delivered a setting that felt like an elegant getaway without ever leaving Southern California.

As a SoCal wedding planner who works at all sorts of beautiful venues, I loved how this venue brings together timeless charm and modern amenities. Kathleen & Dave’s celebration was a perfect example of how versatile this space can be. From a charming outdoor ceremony, fireside cocktails and a cozy indoor reception, Agape has everything you need in a venue for your wedding day. 

The day began with a tea ceremony for the bride, groom and their families off-site. Dave picked up Kathleen at her AirBnB and brought her back to the tea ceremony location. The family did a great job putting together the space and decor which included a red 3-panel backdrop where tea would be served to loved ones. 

After the tea ceremony and lunch, the wedding party made their way to Agape to settle into the large bridal suite where the bridesmaids were able to get ready. 

Agape’s bridal suite located in the upper level was stunning, like something out of a magazine. Plenty of space for hair and makeup, belongings, dress hanging and more. The space itself made a gorgeous backdrop for photos. Definitely one of the more beautiful bridal suites I’ve seen in my career. 

The couple chose to do their first look on the lovely staircase leading down to the courtyard. It was a sweet moment filled with emotion that set the tone for the rest of the day. They also wanted to take portraits off-site, so we took them to downtown San Clemente where they took full advantage of the charming city streets as their backdrop. 

An Picturesque Ceremony at Agape San Clemente

Surrounded by loved ones, the ceremony took place in the intimate central courtyard with the barn doors behind them. Romantic floral arrangements in soft, coastal-inspired tones filled the space framed by the white stucco walls and Spanish tile. The couple took part in a Christian Ceremony with elements such as Communion and the Sand Ceremony, reflecting their faith and beliefs. They ended the ceremony honoring their parents with bouquets to symbolize their love and gratitude. 

Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktails in the courtyard while the wedding party snuck away for portraits. One of my favorite spaces indoors is the massive and expansive Bar. It’s really a true showpiece, blending vintage charm with contemporary craftsmanship. Featuring a marble countertop and intricately patterned Spanish tile inlays, the bar creates a bold yet refined focal point within the venue’s reception space. Overhead, exposed wood beams and wrought iron chandeliers add warmth and rustic elegance, while natural light streams in through skylights and clerestory windows highlighting every detail. The classic hex tile flooring enhances the space’s historic feel, making it an ideal spot for cocktail hour and mingling. 

Image by A Fabulous Soiree

Wedding Party portraits just outside the venue included the ensemble crossing the street with the sunset just behind them along the ocean line. Once we brought everyone back, we had a champagne glass tower waiting for the newlyweds where they poured bubbly from a custom-decorated bottle to continue the festivities. 

A Cozy Indoor Reception at Agape San Clemente

The reception space inside Agape 1928 blends vintage charm with a cozy, elevated aesthetic. Wood-beamed ceilings, wrought iron details, and candlelit tables created a warm and welcoming environment for dinner and dancing.

We kicked off the celebration with a fun (and funny!) Grand Entrance which segued into the newlywed’s very special First Dance. Guests dined on Maison by the amazing Chef Danielle, laughed through heartfelt toasts, and had their own mini-version rave with glow sticks on the dance floor.

From custom signage & stationery designed by Kathleen herself to the cutest fortune-cookie seating chart built by her father, every part of this wedding felt deeply personal and true to the couple’s love story. We especially loved how they chose to incorporate a fun and light-hearted trivia game during the reception to see which of their guests best knew them. 

Planning a Wedding at Agape 1928

Agape 1928 is a gem for couples who want a Southern California wedding with character, history, and effortless coastal vibes. Whether you're planning an intimate celebration or a full wedding weekend in San Clemente, Agape 1928 offers a truly unique and romantic setting to say “I do.” Reach out today and schedule a consultation with me to learn more about this beautiful venue and how you can host your special day there.

Vendor Team

Venue: Agape San Clemente
Catering: Maison Dana Point
Coordinator & Planner: A Fabulous Soiree
DJ & MC: DJ Solstice
Glam: Pure Essence Beauty Collective
Florals: Tuti Subagio
Photobooth: Arki Photobooth
Photograph & Videography: Fort Film
Rentals: Stephanie’s Linens
Groom Attire: Tux by Erik Luo
Bride Attire: By Fellyza Sanjaya