The precipitous forecast for the weekend ahead at Wind and Sea Estate in Big Sur left something to be desired. Calling for a 100% chance of rain on Friday and a 20% chance of rain Saturday, umbrellas and rain jackets became the newest potential guests at Sarah and Carlos‘ wedding. Photographing weddings in the rain, while less than ideal, is something any seasoned photographer has experienced and must prepare for- especially if you’re a local Big Sur wedding photographer like myself!

I touched base with them on their wedding. There are last-minute mental adjustments to be made about the weather. Consistent with her personality, Sarah’s response to the forecast is “Well people better like the rain then!” Her adventurous spirit and upbeat personality are something to admire. It complements the calm and patient demeanor of Carlos quite well. Rain or shine, Carlos and Sarah were ready to have the perfect day to celebrate their love for one another.

The Overall Big Sur Feel

On the day of the wedding, I recalled the words stated by the late Patrick Young. “The trouble with weather forecasting is that it’s right too often for us to ignore it and wrong too often for us to rely on it”. The weather gods granted us a reprieve and the clouds above held back just long enough for their special celebration. Big Sur, California is such a magical place. Upon arrival, you can feel the sense of occasion. The fresh air. The ocean breeze. The gentle mist enveloping you in a way that only seems possible in this fairy tale of a place where the rolling mountains stand tall alongside the powerful sea. As a local Big Sur wedding photographer, I love working in Big Sur.

The Ceremony at Wind and Sea Estate

The love these two have for one another is rare and ever apparent on this amazing day on the central coast. My first interaction with Carlos finds him casual, both in dress and mood. His comfy clothes and gentle voice let me know there are no doubts, no nerves to be had on this day. Here is a man certain of the choices he makes, and today, just like any other day, he chooses Sarah.

I wouldn’t have been the least bit surprised if his casual clothes carried him down the aisle. They wanted this wedding day to be all about being who they are, together. Thankfully, that decision was not made. It would’ve stripped everyone present of the satisfaction of seeing the two of them dressed to the nines! Their choice of clothes and accessories complemented each other perfectly.  They can look forward to sharing these photographs with their children, gaining a reputation as the “cool, stylish parents.”

Sarah & Carlo’s “We want a serious pose!”

The entire day has a great emphasis on the fact that everyone who is invited is there for a reason. I could see what a large role family played in each of their lives. The feeling I receive from being surrounded by them is one of love and comfort. It’s what I live to capture as a local Big Sur wedding photographer. On the inside, I am always emotional during the ceremony. When Carlos shows his emotions as he dedicates his life to loving Sarah, I can’t help but share in his tears of joy.

Their baby Baxter, dressed all fancy! Did I mention that the band CAKE was there?!

And of course there was some cake too 🙂

The Take-Away

Thanks to my line of work as a local Big Sur wedding photographer, I take away something from every wedding I am a part of. I want to give special thanks to Sarah and Carlos for allowing me to share their special day at the Wind and Sea Estate in Big Sur. To witness their powerful love, unbreakable bond, and an amazing family. When you two return from your amazing honeymoon traveling the world, I hope you look back on your wedding day and know that I am so thankful you’ve asked me to share it with you.

Planning a Big Sur wedding and in need of a photographer? I’m your gal! Contact me here!

Venue: Wind & Sea Estate Big Sur 

Dress: Panache Beverly Hills

Grooms Suit: Indochino Beverly Hills

Catering: The Events by Classic Group

Congratulations!