The Story

It was such a joy to photograph wine enthusiasts, Suzie and Josh’s Monterey wedding. They currently live in Napa, California, where Josh works at a winery. Pawrents to two rescue dogs (one four year old Aussie/Golden mix and a 2 year old Husky!), they love hiking, drinking black coffee, and vegging out to watching Top Chef.

Suzie and Josh got married in Monterey, California. To prepare for their event, they stayed at the Monterey Plaza and Hotel. Monterey Plaza Hotel is stunning; it has so many pockets of areas for photographs, and the views which overlook the coast are unrivaled. Monterey is known for its low hanging fog and cool winds, but the day of Suzie and Josh’s wedding was perfect weather. We had sunshine and a gentle breeze!

Wedding Vibes

The ceremony and reception was at Bayonet Black Horse, which is a golf course that overlooks cypress and oak trees. Their outdoor ceremony had views of rolling hills, and they married under a beautiful wooden arbor with florals.

It was such a joy to be a part of Suzie and Josh’s wedding day. Suzie’s family lives in Carmel, so their input as locals was invaluable. I loved photographing Josh’s getting ready photos at Suzie’s parent’s home in Carmel. Working with local families as a local Carmel photographer is such a treat; it’s part of why I love this community so much!

First Look

Before the ceremony, they wanted to gift each other their handwritten vows to read before the wedding. This was an incredible moment for both of them. Reading each other’s vows before the ceremony was emotional and made the first look even more special.

Their first look was one for the books. Suzie and Josh are enamored with each other. Each time they saw each other, they smiled. I loved capturing how giddy they were- it was almost like they couldn’t keep their eyes off of each other the entire day!

Ceremony

There were so many details that I loved capturing. Suzie wore Toms under her dress, a ladybug fell on her flowers (which means good luck!), and they created customized wine labels as table numbers. One thing that stood out was their guest book. Guests signed each of their names on jenga blocks that Suzie and Josh would keep. The sign read, “Marriage is a balance; sign a jenga piece”. Isn’t that darling?

Sunset Portraits

Suzie was so beautiful in her strapless wedding gown and cathedral veil, and Josh looked so handsome in his grey suit. I loved capturing this wedding, and can’t wait for more couples like them!

I would be delighted to photograph for you! Contact me here.