When Sophia and Jacob reached out to me, they had a clear vision for their wedding photography: editorial-inspired portraits featuring direct flash and filmy textures combined with candid, emotive moments captured in a documentary style. Even though their wedding was indoors, they wanted their images to reflect high-energy, upscale city vibes. Shooting a wedding entirely indoors can be intimidating—but for me, that’s exactly the kind of creative challenge I adore! Their venue—the iconic Jonathan Club in Los Angeles—was the perfect backdrop for this vision, offering a moody, dramatic, and sophisticated city aesthetic.
Step Inside the Glamour of Jonathan Club, a Venue with a Century of Secrets
Jonathan Club has been part of L.A.’s history for over a century, becoming a symbol of sophistication. The time-honored Los Angeles social club presented a captivating backdrop, rich in history and charm. Built over a century ago, this iconic venue is known for its dramatic architecture, moody ambiance, and sophisticated aesthetic. The club’s dim lighting adds to its allure, creating an intimate and upscale vibe that feels distinctly different from traditional wedding venues. Couples who resonate with historic elegance, private-club exclusivity, and urban charm would absolutely thrive in hosting their wedding here or in similar private club-style venues around Los Angeles and San Francisco. (Check out The California Club and The University Club below.) If you’re craving a mix of moodiness and intimacy with high-energy, upscale city vibes, a historic private venue may be a great fit.
No Light? No Problem. Bring on the Drama of Low-Light Venues
From a photographer’s perspective, the Jonathan Club was equal parts inspiring and challenging. It was easily the darkest venue I’ve ever photographed. (And that’s saying something—I spent eight years photographing weddings in Chicago, where nearly every wedding took place indoors). Low-light photography in spaces like this requires extensive technical knowledge and the confidence to push your boundaries creatively. Thankfully, I love a challenge. It fuels creativity and allows me to explore unique ways to artistically capture moments that become your favorite memories.
City or Beach? Discover the Dual Personality of Jonathan Club Weddings
If you have your heart set on the Jonathan Club but aren’t feeling the dark dramatic vibes, they’ve got options! The Jonathan Club has two locations, each with a handful of venue spaces. This wedding took place at the Town Club in downtown LA. However, they also have the Beach Club on Santa Monica Beach, conveniently located between Palisades Park and the Santa Monica Pier. (Hello, endless photo opportunities!) The Penthouse and Terrace showcase incredible beach views.
The Vendor Team that Brought this Jonathan Club Wedding to Life
I can’t share this wedding without shouting out their amazing vendor team. Lux Events and Design knocked it out of the park! Their attention to detail and seamless coordination made this event not only gorgeous but stress-free. And the outstanding videography by Story Box Film also deserves a special shout-out—they are always at the top of my referral list when clients ask for stunning storytelling through video. From the florals by Paradise Florist LA to the music by DJ Pasha Entertainment, every detail came together beautifully.
Cue the Band, Pop the Champagne: Why City Club Weddings Are Stealing the Spotlight
If you’re considering a chic, moody, and dramatic city club wedding venue, such as the Jonathan Club—or even similar historic private clubs like The California Club or The University Club of USC—I highly recommend it. These spaces bring unmatched elegance, warmth, and timelessness to your wedding day. When done right, this luxury club vibe can offer a fun and unique wedding experience. There’s an enticing sense of mystery that pulls you out of your comfort zone and begs you to hit the dance floor. (No awkward small talk and waiting around for cake here!)
Learn More about The California Club & The University Club of USC
Both The California Club and The University Club of USC offer similarly rich atmospheres steeped in architectural grandeur and storied tradition. The California Club, situated just a few blocks from the Jonathan Club in downtown Los Angeles, boasts ornate interiors, marble staircases, and an old Hollywood charm that’s hard to replicate.
Meanwhile, the University Club in San Francisco leans into its ivy-covered, East Coast-inspired aesthetic, perched atop Nob Hill with sweeping views of the Bay. These venues not only serve as stunning backdrops—they create an immersive experience where every moment feels cinematic, elevated, and unforgettable. If you’re drawn to weddings that blend historic elegance with a modern edge, these clubs should be on your radar.
You might also look into the University Club of Pasadena, which is tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac (with parking!) and offers indoor and outdoor options. This venue has a modern, tropical vibe that’s a little different than the other two. One interior room features gorgeous wood floors, crisp white walls, and rustic wooden beams, complemented by vintage gold chandeliers. The red-brick patio overflows with leafy palms and features a covered pergola for shade.
No matter your style, you can bet Los Angeles has you covered.
Congratulations, Sophia and Jacob!
I’m grateful for couples like Sophia and Jacob who trust me to capture their unique wedding vision and allow me to create art from genuine, candid moments. Congratulations again to this fabulous couple!
Jonathan Club Wedding Vendor Team
Photography: @hannawalkowaik
Planner & Queen: @luxeventsanddesign
Venue: @jonathanclub
Videography: @storyboxfilm
Florals: @paradisefloristla
DJ: @djpashaent
Hair: @stephaniegardnerstyles
Makeup: @glammyfacebysara
Dress: @sereneamebridal
