Seaside Elegance: Laura & Jackson Tie the Knot in Monterey

Get ready to be swept off your feet by Laura and Jackson's dreamy Monterey wedding! From heartfelt moments to spontaneous laughter, their special day had it all. Held at the stunning St. Angela Merici and Monterey Beach Station, this wedding perfectly encapsulated the blend of tradition and modern flair that defines them as a couple. Throw in a scenic backdrop, sustainable florals, and a playlist that had everyone dancing, and you've got a celebration that's as unforgettable as it is unique. So sit back, grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine), and journey with us through a day filled with love, laughter, and a lifetime's worth of memories.

Every love story deserves an unforgettable beginning, and Laura's day kicked off in the heart of scenic Monterey at the Portola Hotel. Her style, a timeless blend of classic elegance, shone through in every detail—right from her exquisite dress to her chic heels. The girls added a pop of fun with champagne toasts in matching PJs, making the atmosphere buzz with excitement. One of the morning's most touching moments was when Laura opened a heartfelt letter from Jackson; there wasn't a dry eye in the room. Her mom stepped in to help her don her gorgeous gown, adding another layer of sentiment to the day. And speaking of sustainable love, Laura opted for an eco-friendly bouquet from BloomsURent, proving that elegance and sustainability can go hand-in-hand. What a magical way to set the stage for the lifelong journey ahead!

Driving up in a vintage car, Laura and her dad arrived at St. Angela Merici like something straight out of a classic romance film. As she gracefully walked down the aisle, every eye was on her; the church itself seemed to hold its breath. A bird's-eye view from the balcony captured the grandeur of the ceremony venue, making it an ideal backdrop for a day so significant. The chemistry between Laura and Jackson was palpable, their eyes locking in a secret language only they understood. When their lips finally met for the first kiss as a married couple, the church erupted in applause. The pair couldn't help but share giggles of pure joy as they began their first walk down the aisle together as husband and wife.

Post-ceremony, the newlyweds took their vintage ride to Lovers Point in Pacific Grove, creating the perfect setting for some jaw-dropping portraits. With the endless ocean as their backdrop, the photos are nothing short of cinematic. Whether they were cuddled inside the car or standing beside it, their love seemed as boundless as the sea behind them. And let's not forget the chivalrous moment where Jackson helped Laura out of the car—a picture-perfect representation of their partnership.

As guests arrived at Monterey Beach Station for the reception, they were greeted by an atmosphere brimming with intimacy and warmth. The tables were adorned with a sea of candles, greenery, and white blooms from BloomsURent, punctuated by tasteful splashes of red. But what truly made the setting unique were the table numbers. Each was tagged with a location that held a special memory for Laura and Jackson, inviting guests to take a little journey through the couple's love story as they took their seats.

The energy hit an all-time high when Laura and Jackson made their grand entrance into the reception. Cheered on by their bridal party, you could feel the room pulsate with love and joy. The toasts that followed were equally heartwarming and entertaining, a toast not just to the couple but to friendship and family. Candid snaps of the guests captured the essence of the evening—a room full of people who love and support Laura and Jackson, each frame oozing with genuine happiness.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we stole away for a few moments to capture some enchanting sunset portraits right outside Monterey Beach Station. With clear skies and boats gently cruising toward the harbor, the setting couldn't have been more picturesque. Given that Jackson is a navy man, the oceanic backdrop felt especially meaningful. The golden hour light bathed Laura and Jackson in soft, dreamy hues, reminding us all that some things are absolutely worth pausing for, even amidst the whirlwind of a wedding day.

As the sky darkened, the dance floor lit up, capturing the uninhibited joy of everyone present. From classic moves to groomsmen donning the bride's veil for laughs, the revelry was in full swing. But as with all good things, the night had to come to an end. I wrapped up the day with one of my signature long-exposure shots, capturing Monterey Beach Station from the outside. With bonfires blazing and guests enjoying the beach, the venue looked nothing short of a magical, glowing oasis—the perfect ending to Laura and Jackson's perfect day.

A day as incredible as this doesn't happen by chance; it's the result of amazing vendors who bring their A-game.

Huge shoutout to Forma Weddings for seamlessly pulling off a day that was beautiful in every sense.

St. Angela Merici and Monterey Beach Station, your venues were the ideal stages for Laura and Jackson's love story to unfold.

Key to Beauty by Nora, you had our bride glowing from beginning to end.

Monterey Bay Entertainment, you set the perfect vibe for us all to let loose on the dance floor.

BloomsURent, your eco-friendly flowers added the perfect touch of elegance.

Lady M Cakes, your desserts were the cherry on top of a wonderful day.

And let's not forget Weightless Views Productions, who were there to capture it all on video.

Together, you all created a day that will be cherished forever. Hats off to each and every one of you!