Vanessa Villela and Nick Hardy’s Fairytale Wedding: A Grand Celebration of Love at Fairmont Grand Del Mar
In a celebration that truly captured the essence of a modern-day fairytale, “Selling Sunset” star Vanessa Villela exchanged vows with her beloved, creative director Nick Hardy, in a breathtaking ceremony held in San Diego, California. The highly anticipated nuptials took place on September 3rd, unfolding within the luxurious confines of the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. From the moment Vanessa walked down the aisle in her stunning strapless white gown to their joyous declarations of love, every detail of their special day was meticulously crafted to reflect their unique and profound connection. This intimate yet grand affair not only marked a significant milestone for the couple but also offered fans a glimpse into a love story that is both deeply romantic and inspiring.
The journey to matrimony culminated in a spectacular event that saw the couple radiate happiness and undeniable affection. The Fairmont Grand Del Mar provided an idyllic backdrop, its opulent architecture and pristine landscapes perfectly complementing the grandeur of the occasion. Vanessa, known for her vibrant personality and elegant style, looked absolutely magnificent in her wedding attire, a strapless white dress that epitomized bridal sophistication. Nick, equally dapper, opted for a classic tuxedo, exuding timeless charm. Their chosen ensembles spoke volumes of their personal styles – a blend of classic elegance with a touch of modern allure. This unforgettable day was more than just a wedding; it was a carefully curated experience designed to celebrate a love that “had to reflect their fairytale love story,” as the couple later shared.
Every element of Vanessa’s bridal look was thoughtfully chosen to enhance her natural beauty. Her long, lustrous hair was styled in soft, cascading curls, framing her face beautifully, while a delicate white veil rested gracefully atop her head, adding a traditional touch to her contemporary gown. Adorned with exquisite white pearls, which perfectly complemented the intricate floral detailing that embellished her dress, Vanessa presented an image of pure elegance and grace. Her makeup was kept natural, highlighting her striking features without overshadowing the radiance of the day. Nick, embracing a subtly rugged yet polished look, sported some facial hair, paired with a neatly trimmed, short haircut, ensuring he looked every bit the dashing groom beside his radiant bride.

The newlyweds shared their aspirations for the event with Brides magazine, stating, “We wanted the event to be intimate yet grand, and to create something that would blow people’s minds. Just like our love, this event had to reflect their fairytale love story.” This vision was brought to life not only through the breathtaking venue and decor but also through Vanessa’s remarkable sartorial journey throughout the day. Beyond the stunning gown in which she exchanged her vows, Vanessa captivated guests with two additional, equally magnificent outfits, showcasing her flair for fashion and desire for an unforgettable celebration. The first change saw her don a beautiful gown from For Love Bridal, chosen specifically for the reception and their eagerly anticipated first dance. This gown likely offered a blend of elegance and comfort, perfect for the romantic movements of a newlywed couple. Later in the evening, Vanessa made a grand entrance in a custom-made creation by Charbel Karam Haute Couture, a masterpiece accompanied by a matching diamond tiara, ensuring she looked every inch the dancing queen as she celebrated late into the night. This thoughtful progression of outfits allowed Vanessa to embody different facets of her bridal fantasy, from the solemnity of the ceremony to the unbridled joy of the reception.
The selection of the Fairmont Grand Del Mar as their wedding venue speaks volumes about Vanessa and Nick’s desire for a truly luxurious and memorable experience. Nestled in the picturesque canyons of San Diego, this Five-Star, Five-Diamond resort is renowned for its Mediterranean-inspired architecture, lush gardens, and unparalleled service. Its exquisite ballrooms, charming courtyards, and scenic outdoor spaces offer a variety of settings for every part of a wedding celebration, ensuring that the couple’s vision of a day that was both “intimate yet grand” could be fully realized. The resort’s reputation for hosting high-profile events and providing a seamless, sophisticated experience made it the ideal choice for a couple seeking to create lasting memories for themselves and their cherished guests. The ambiance created by the stunning surroundings, combined with bespoke floral arrangements and elegant lighting, truly transformed the venue into a fairytale setting, living up to every expectation.
Vanessa’s initial wedding gown, a strapless white dress, was a testament to classic bridal beauty, yet with modern touches that made it distinctly hers. The strapless neckline elegantly highlighted her décolletage, while the silhouette, whether A-line or mermaid, would have gracefully flattered her figure. The mention of white floral detail throughout the gown suggests intricate lace appliques, delicate embroidery, or perhaps three-dimensional floral elements, adding texture and depth to the design. Paired with white pearls, which traditionally symbolize purity and wisdom, her accessories imbued her look with a timeless elegance. Her choice of a natural makeup look allowed her inner glow to shine through, emphasizing her eyes and lips with subtle enhancements rather than heavy coverage. This overall aesthetic created a harmonious balance between traditional bridal charm and contemporary sophistication, making her a truly captivating bride.
Nick Hardy’s choice of a classic tuxedo underscored his commitment to timeless style. A well-tailored tuxedo, typically black or midnight blue, exudes an air of sophistication and formality perfectly suited for such a grand occasion. His decision to sport facial hair added a touch of modern ruggedness, softening the formality of the suit and reflecting his personal aesthetic. The short, crisp haircut completed his polished appearance, ensuring he looked sharp and distinguished. Together, Vanessa and Nick presented a picture of complementary elegance, their individual styles harmonizing to create a truly iconic bridal duo. The visual synergy between their attire was undeniable, a testament to their shared taste and vision for their wedding day.
The journey to this magnificent wedding ceremony was paved with unique and heartwarming moments, illustrating the depth of Vanessa and Nick’s commitment to each other. Their engagement story, in particular, stands out as a testament to their modern love, challenging traditional norms and celebrating mutual devotion. The couple initially got engaged when Nick proposed in January, a romantic gesture that took place at the iconic Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles. At that point, they had been dating for precisely one year, a significant milestone that set the stage for this pivotal moment in their relationship. The Griffith Observatory, known for its breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its celestial significance, provided an incredibly romantic and memorable setting for Nick to pop the question. Sharing the joyous news across social media, the couple’s happiness was palpable, eliciting an outpouring of congratulatory messages from fans and friends alike. This initial proposal was a classic declaration of love, filled with anticipation and excitement for their future together.
However, their love story took an even more unique turn eight months later when Vanessa, demonstrating her belief in reciprocal love and equality within a relationship, decided to propose to Nick herself. This heartwarming “surprise proposal for my prince” was not just a gesture but a profound statement, which she proudly shared with the world through a cute photo documenting the memorable moment. Vanessa’s decision to take this unconventional step resonated deeply with many, as it beautifully encapsulated her philosophy on love and partnership. Her social media post about the proposal provided an intimate look into her perspective, further endearing her to her followers and highlighting the progressive nature of their relationship.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Vanessa Hardy Villela 🦋🦋🦋 (@vannevillela)
“Surprise proposal for my prince 🤴🏻,” she wrote on Instagram in the caption accompanying the heartfelt image. She elaborated on her motivation, stating, “I believe in showing your love to your man in the same way they do for women, I believe they should feel the same magic and love😍 so as our wedding is getting closer I proposed to my love, the man of my dreams.❤️” This powerful statement not only showcased Vanessa’s deep affection for Nick but also championed a progressive view of gender roles in romance. It underscored the idea that love should be celebrated with equal passion and enthusiasm from both partners, and that the magic of a proposal is a moment to be cherished by all. This dual proposal narrative adds a beautiful, contemporary layer to their romance, making their journey to the altar even more compelling and inspirational for couples everywhere.
The wedding of Vanessa Villela and Nick Hardy was more than just a celebrity event; it was a profound declaration of love, commitment, and a shared vision for a future filled with joy and mutual respect. From the carefully chosen venue and the breathtaking bridal attire to the unique story of their dual proposals, every aspect of their journey reflected a deep understanding and appreciation for one another. Their fairytale celebration at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar will undoubtedly serve as a lasting memory for the couple and an inspiration for many, reaffirming that true love stories are crafted with both grand gestures and heartfelt, personal touches. As they embark on this new chapter as husband and wife, Vanessa and Nick continue to captivate with their authentic and inspiring romance.