There is a special kind of magic that happens when you mix the glam of Old Hollywood with the quiet, soulful atmosphere of a family home. Sam and Maude’s wedding day did just that—it was a day that felt a little like living inside a movie and also like a heartfelt Sunday dinner.

Getting Ready at the Iconic Chateau Marmont

The day began at the Chateau Marmont, the legendary castle on the Sunset Strip that has housed everyone from Greta Garbo to Jim Morrison. Getting ready in a suite at the Chateau provided the perfect aesthetic “anchor” for the morning. Between the vintage architecture, the dappled sunlight through the balcony, and the sheer history in the walls, it was the most elegant backdrop for Maude to slip into her dress and Sam to toast with friends.

A Ceremony Rooted in Family

While the morning was grand, the ceremony was beautifully grounded. Sam and Maude chose to exchange their vows in a private family backyard. Surrounded by a small group of their absolute favorite people, the atmosphere was thick with emotion. There’s something so sacred about getting married in a place that already holds a lifetime of memories; it turned a “wedding venue” into a home.

The Celebration: Dinner at Jar

After the ceremony, the celebration moved to one of the couple’s favorite local haunts: Jar. As one of the most beloved modern chophouses in Los Angeles, Jar provided a vibe that was perfectly “Retro-Mod.”

The reception felt like an upscale supper club. On each place setting, guests sat to find hand-written love notes from the couple. It was a beautifully personal touchpoint of the night. The reception was effortlessly cool—no massive ballrooms or strobe lights—just incredible food, stiff cocktails, and a room full of laughter that lasted well into the night.

Why I Loved This Day:

• The Locale: I don’t need to convince you on how cool Chateau Marmont is. And the intimate backyard ceremony felt so personal, and the candlelit dinner was straight-up cozy.
• The Guest List: By keeping it small, Sam and Maude were able to actually spend time with every single person in the room.
• The Location: Jar is an LA staple for a reason. Its mid-century “Mad Men” vibe gave the photos a timeless, sophisticated edge.

Thank you for letting me capture this incredible day with you, Jenna Powers.