Old Hollywood Vibes at Carlos Vela’s Bel-Air Bay Club Wedding
There is a timelessness to the California coast that mirrors the most enduring love stories. We had the honor of photographing the long-awaited celebration and Bel-Air Club wedding of former professional footballer Carlos Vela and sports commentator Saioa Canibano. Photographed by us at MemoryBox
Saioa Canibano + Carlos Vela’s Wedding
We were honored to be chosen to capture the vow renewal of Carlos Vela and Siaoa Canibano. Carlos Vela is a former professional Mexican footballer and is known as a prominent player for Arsenal, Real Sociedad, the Mexico national team, and Los Angeles FC. He retired from the sport in 2025 and is now a partial owner of Los Angeles FC. His wife, Saioa Canibano, was also heavily involved in the world of sports as a Spanish sports journalist. The pair originally were married several years ago, but were unable to host the celebration they dreamed of. Until now!
Bel-Air Bay Club: an Old Hollywood Legacy
Established in 1927, the Bel-Air Bay Club is a Mediterranean-style estate that balances Old Hollywood nostalgia with coastal ease. The estate, with its white stucco archways and wrought-iron chandeliers, felt like the perfect classic California backdrop for a couple seeking both privacy and grandeur.
The ceremony took place on the cliffside lawn, where a lightly draped altar allowed the panoramic Pacific view to speak for itself. In a deeply intentional moment, Saioa and Carlos included their children in a sand ceremony, creating a living portrait of their family unity.
Design: Mediterranean Style with a Laidback Soul
The aesthetic blended sumptuous elegance with a kick-your-shoes-off atmosphere. Guests shielded themselves against the Malibu sun with white parasols before transitioning to the Spanish-style courtyard for a golden-hour cocktail session. Every detail was a thoughtful nod to the setting: from the whitewashed pottery lining the aisle to the whimsical seashell cocktail classes and place cards that anchored the design in its coastal home.
A Study in Statement Style
Saioa’s style throughout the day was a picture of versatility and range. She began in a fitted lace silhouette with a dramatic cathedral veil for the ceremony. During cocktail hour, they escaped for private portraits in a vintage Porsche as a nod to the effortless cool that defined their celebration. Later, she shifted into a sleek satin gown and an elegant updo for the intimate dinner. But the final fiesta was a showstopper, embracing the party with a sparkling beaded sheath dress with a high slit.
Capture your Bel-Air Bay Club Wedding
We specialize in capturing these unhurried, high-design moments where family heritage and coastal beauty meet. If you are planning your own Bel-Air Bay Club wedding, we would love to hear your story and then capture it. Reach out to begin.
Find the vendor team on Instagram:
Photographer @memorybox_photo
Videographer @memoryboxcinema
Planning @c.c.monroedesign
Florals @ednalove_floraldesign
Rentals @mtb_event_rentals
Stationary @letterandink
Venue @belairbayclub
Dress @jaxonjamescouturebridal
