Emily and Patrick’s wedding was a heartfelt ode to individuality, intimacy, and the art of savoring each moment. With just their immediate family gathered, the day was a beautiful testament to what small weddings do best—highlighting unique personal touches and creating a space for genuine connections. This couple stayed true to themselves, from their attire to the anime-topped cake, their day was undeniably them. As a photographer who adores the close-knit vibe of intimate celebrations, I was in my element, documenting the laughter, the tears, and the unscripted joy that naturally unfolds when you're fully present in the celebration of love.

A celebration under a lush green garden arch with chairs set up for an outdoor ceremony.

Photographing bridal details is always a treat, especially when the bride brings her own flair to the day. Her choice of blue suede shoes and a distinctive two-piece wedding dress showcased her unique style. Capturing the dress was a creative challenge, but displaying it in front of a stunning painting in Emily's suite highlighted its beauty. Her statement piece earings completed her Vogue Bride look.


The intimate setting, with everyone doing their own hair and makeup, created a relaxed atmosphere filled with camaraderie, reminiscent of a casual girls' get-together. A memorable moment was when Emily's sister-in-law prepared for her role in the ceremony while sitting in the tub, notes in hand.


Emily's personality shone throughout the morning. Not only is she incredibly stylish, but her humor and spontaneity added a vibrant energy to the day. It's clear she inherited some of her comedic flair from her mom, who brought laughter and lightness, especially when she appeared with a bottle of tequila during Emily's portrait session. Of which they each had a shot before the ceremony.

Colorful wedding bouquet with pink roses, blue thistles and mixed flowers showing wedding ring detail.
A white tulle wedding dress hangs against a landscape painting with blue shoes placed below.
Blue velvet wedding shoes displayed next to colorful floral arrangement on white surface.
A vibrant floral arrangement with red and orange blooms sits in focus while a figure stands blurred in background.
Two people in white robes share champagne by a window with plantation shutters.
A person in a white robe stands by a window with plantation shutters and artwork on the wall.
Someone in a white robe applies makeup while looking in a mirror during wedding preparations.
Two people in contrasting outfits examine something together during wedding preparations.
A wedding preparation scene in black and white showing a relaxing moment in a bathroom.
A reflection in a mirror shows someone adjusting their earring while wearing a white robe.
A person putting on jewelry while looking in a mirror, wearing a white bathrobe during wedding preparations.
Someone in a white robe admiring their reflection while putting on jewelry before a special event.
Two people share an intimate moment while getting dressed in formal attire near a window.
Two people in a hallway during wedding preparations, one wearing a black dress and one in white.
Two people share a candid moment in a hallway with floral decorations and artwork visible.
A flowing white wedding dress being held in a doorway during pre-wedding preparations.
A close-up view shows someone helping adjust formal attire, with visible tattoo details.
A person in a green floral top assists with formal dress preparations in a bright room.
A touching moment during wedding dress preparations in a sunlit room with white decor.
A stunning layered tulle wedding dress being adjusted in a room with a fireplace.
Final adjustments being made to a dramatic white tulle wedding gown in an elegant room.
A modern bride in a two-piece wedding dress gets help with final preparations.
A joyful moment captured during wedding dress preparations in a minimalist room.
A modern bride poses in a two-piece wedding gown featuring a dramatic tulle skirt.
A person in dark clothing helps adjust a white wedding dress in a sunlit room before the ceremony.
A flowing white wedding gown is being arranged in a bright indoor setting with patterned bedding.
Hands shown adjusting details on a white tulle wedding dress during preparation.
An emotional embrace shared during wedding preparations in a bright white room.
A bride in a layered tulle wedding gown holds a colorful bouquet while posing in an elegant interior.
A bride in a white strapless gown holds a vibrant bouquet of roses and wildflowers against a neutral wall.
A bride in a flowing white tulle gown poses with her colorful bouquet in an elegant interior setting.
A bride with a colorful bouquet shares a moment with someone holding a pink bottle in a bright interior.
Two people share a joyful moment while holding a bouquet and bottle in a white interior room.
Beautiful bridal bouquet of vibrant flowers in front of white fireplace with natural window light.
Two people share an animated moment of laughter in a bright white room with a floral bouquet.
Two people share genuine laughter while holding a colorful wedding bouquet in a bright room.
A wedding moment captured with two people posing together against white walls and wooden floors.
A black and white photo of two people by French doors in formal attire with a floral bouquet.
A serene black and white photo of two people conversing by French doors with natural light.
A black and white moment of joy shared between two people during wedding preparations.

The Hacienda House at De Terra Events was a joy to shoot in, offering endless possibilities with its intriguing details and abundant natural light—a dream for any photographer. While Emily was preparing upstairs, I ventured downstairs to capture Patrick in his element. True to form, he radiated excitement and warmth, mirroring the bubbly spirit of his bride-to-be. It's evident these two are a perfect match. With some assistance from his new father-in-law, Patrick's bowtie dilemma was swiftly resolved.

Luxurious blue velvet tuxedo jacket with white shirt hanging against textured copper wall.
Vintage copper diving helmet displayed with formal black shoes on wooden table.
Black and white photo of someone adjusting record player on vintage table.
Wedding accessories and vintage diving helmet displayed on wooden table near window.
Classic black and white photo of person in formal attire checking phone by window.
Black and white photograph showing close-up of formal shoes and suspenders.
Black and white image of formal attire with suspenders tying dress shoes.
A tender moment of bow tie adjusting captured in black and white at a formal event.
An older gentleman helps adjust a younger man's bowtie while both wear classic formal attire with suspenders.
A formal scene in black and white showing preparation for a special occasion.

Amy of Kiss Me in Carmel Vintage Rentals and Michael from Valley Flores Designs truly outdid themselves. They transformed the green archway into an enchanting setting for an intimate wedding ceremony. The vivid colors of the flowers and carpets popped against the lush greenery, creating a mesmerizing scene. Every detail was meticulously perfected, showcasing their remarkable talent and vision.

A beautiful garden ceremony setup with wooden chairs arranged under a natural green archway.
Vibrant floral arrangement with red and blue blooms featuring dramatic hanging amaranthus.
Wedding decor featuring a floral arrangement atop vintage suitcases with pillar candles.
Garden wedding ceremony site with wooden chairs framed by a natural green archway.
An outdoor wedding aisle lined with wooden chairs beneath a lush green canopy.
Elegant wedding decor featuring a pedestal table with floral arrangements and candles in an outdoor garden setting.
Pink confetti push-pops arranged neatly in a box with greenery accents.

The ceremony, with its mere nine guests, was the epitome of intimacy. The moment Patrick caught sight of Emily, an expression of pure joy spread across his face. The natural arches of greenery not only framed this intimate gathering beautifully but also provided much-needed shade on the warm Monterey day. With Emily's sister-in-law officiating, the ceremony was incredibly personal. Having someone close to the couple lead the ceremony adds a profound layer of emotion to the ceremony and makes it just that bit more special.


Patrick visibly moved from the moment Emily appeared, wasn't the only one reaching for tissues. His heartfelt vows soon had everyone else doing the same. Patrick holding Emily's bouquet as she read her vows, is a delightful quirk that I adore. After their first kiss as a married couple, they made two joyous walks down the aisle — the second time with confetti, which turned out to be a fabulous idea. Those confetti poppers brought out everyone's inner child, adding to the celebration's joy.


Emily and Patrick's ability to be unapologetically themselves was the day's highlight. The photo capturing them in a quirky pose at the aisle's end is a personal favorite, perfectly encapsulating the essence of #Pemily.

A couple walks down a palm-lined outdoor path at a garden venue as guests look on during a wedding ceremony.
An elegant outdoor wedding ceremony unfolds on a patio surrounded by lush greenery and wooden chairs.
A wedding couple share an intimate moment during their ceremony with cross-back chairs and florals in view.
A groom in a dark blue velvet tuxedo stands in a garden setting with natural lighting.
A couple walks near a Spanish-style building with white stucco walls and terracotta roof tiles.
A wedding procession takes place on an outdoor plaza with palm trees and mountains in the background.
A garden wedding ceremony features elegant decor and natural lighting among the trees.
A black and white capture of an intimate wedding ceremony moment in a garden setting.
A tender black and white moment captured during an outdoor wedding ceremony.
A wedding ceremony takes place under a natural green archway with wooden chairs and guests in attendance.
Guests share a moment at an outdoor wedding reception with a child in a white dress.
Black and white photo of guests laughing during a formal outdoor celebration.
Intimate garden wedding ceremony with guests seated on wooden chairs amidst lush greenery.
Wedding ceremony taking place under a natural green archway with colorful floral arrangements.
Bride in white gown exchanges vows during outdoor garden ceremony with floral decorations.
Person in blue velvet suit reads from a book during outdoor ceremony.
Close-up of clasped hands in formal attire sitting on wooden chair.
Bride in white strapless gown holds vibrant bouquet during outdoor garden ceremony.
Person in blue velvet tuxedo reads from book during outdoor wedding ceremony.
Garden wedding ceremony with attendees surrounded by lush greenery and natural light.
A wedding ceremony takes place under a lush green arbor with a celebrant officiating the service.
A bride in a strapless white ballgown smiles during an outdoor garden ceremony.
A person in a velvet navy suit holds a vibrant pink and coral floral bouquet during an outdoor ceremony.
An intimate garden wedding ceremony with green foliage and floral arrangements framing the scene.
A wedding ceremony in progress under natural greenery with guests watching.
A bride in a strapless gown exchanges vows during a sun-dappled garden ceremony.
An outdoor wedding ceremony with guests seated beneath a natural green archway.
A wedding ceremony takes place on a garden path framed by lush greenery.
An intimate garden wedding ceremony with guests watching the exchange of vows.
A couple exchanges vows during their garden wedding ceremony surrounded by natural greenery.
A newlywed couple shares a romantic kiss under a lush garden archway with bright flowers and greenery.
A tender wedding moment captured under green foliage with vibrant pink and red bouquet flowers.
Wedding guests throw confetti at the newly married couple during an outdoor garden ceremony.
A joyful couple exits their garden wedding ceremony while guests celebrate.
Newlyweds celebrate with wedding guests in a garden setting surrounded by greenery.
Newlyweds walk together towards a Spanish-style building with white walls and terra cotta roof.

Cocktail hour began with the ambitious endeavor of constructing a champagne tower, a task that's much trickier than it appears. This part of the day often holds a special place in my heart. Observing the guests mingling and capturing the candid moments as they naturally unfold is always a highlight.

A couple pours champagne into a tower of glasses at their garden wedding reception.
Wedding couple shares a moment while pouring drinks at an outdoor champagne tower station.
Couple carefully fills a champagne tower together during their garden wedding reception.
A formal black and white photo of a family group in evening attire at an outdoor event.
Wedding guests gathered on a patio under umbrellas during a daytime celebration.
A black and white candid photo of wedding guests conversing at an outdoor reception.
A black and white image of two people sharing a relaxed moment at a formal event.
Two men in tuxedos enjoying drinks on an outdoor patio with palm trees in the background.
Guests in formal attire chatting during an outdoor wedding reception.
A black and white photo of a couple seated outdoors at a formal event.
A black and white candid moment between two attendees at a formal event.
An emotional moment captured between two attendees at an outdoor wedding celebration.
A bride in a white ballgown interacting with a small child on outdoor steps.

As the guests indulged in the exquisite canapes prepared by Chef Jacques, I whisked Emily and Patrick away for a quick portrait session. In just 20 minutes, we captured some stunning photos. They had made it clear that spending time with their loved ones was their priority, rather than dedicating hours to photography.


It might sound strange coming from a photographer, but I admire this approach wholeheartedly. Not only does it result in more genuine and joyful pictures, but it also reinforces the idea that a wedding is about the celebration, not just the photos. While I adore taking portraits, the truth is, you only need about 20 minutes to an hour for that part of the day.


If your wedding is more about crafting Instagram content than the actual commitment, we might not be the best match. But for those who value the beauty of the moment and genuine joy, that's where I thrive.

Newlyweds share an intimate moment under a lush green archway decorated with lanterns and floral arrangements.
Modern wedding couple in a garden setting with bride wearing a two-piece white gown.
Elegant wedding couple poses in a garden path with decorative lanterns and floral arrangements.
A romantic wedding photo under a natural green canopy with sunlight streaming through the leaves.
Joyful wedding couple dancing under a natural garden archway with decorative elements.
Wedding couple walking together through a garden path framed by green foliage.
Groom in velvet blue tuxedo and bow tie poses outdoors with greenery backdrop.
Groom in formal velvet tuxedo standing on garden path with lantern decorations.
Groom smiling in navy velvet tuxedo with boutonniere against garden setting.
Bride in a voluminous tulle dress sits elegantly by decorative lanterns and floral arrangements.
Close-up portrait with natural lighting showing white dress and statement earrings.
Bride in white tulle gown poses thoughtfully beside lanterns and floral decor.
Wedding portrait in a garden setting with natural sunlight filtering through trees.
Romantic wedding portrait with bride in white ball gown and groom in tuxedo embracing among colorful floral arrangements.
Groom carrying bride in flowing white dress along garden path with blue lantern decor.
Couple sharing romantic moment on garden path decorated with flowers and blue lanterns.
Wedding couple posing together on garden path with floral archway and decorations.

If the ceremony setup caught your eye, the boho-chic style of the reception will absolutely enchant you. Have I mentioned how much I cherish intimate weddings? The magic of such gatherings was fully captured in this reception design. From the elegantly draped flowers and glowing lanterns that seemed to float above to the luxurious velvet tablecloths and the warm glow of vibrant candles, every detail was thoughtfully curated. Kiss Me in Carmel Vintage Rentals and Valley Flores Designs transformed this backyard space into something you'd expect to see in the pages of a wedding magazine.

Mediterranean-style villa with tall cypress trees and swimming pool featuring turquoise accents.
Outdoor wedding reception setup with turquoise tablecloths and rattan chairs surrounded by lush greenery.
Luxurious table setting with hanging floral arrangements and red candles beside pool.
Elegant reception setup with peacock chairs and floral arrangements against palm tree backdrop.
Close-up of woven basket with cascading burgundy and peach flowers and greenery.
An elegant table setting with gold goblets, red candles and yellow napkins on a turquoise blue tablecloth.
Elegant wedding reception setup near a swimming pool at a Spanish colonial style venue.

The dinner was nothing short of spectacular, with heartfelt toasts from Emily and Patrick's family. Laughter mingled with tears, highlighting the close-knit nature of this celebration. The beauty of a small wedding is in details like these toasts—so personal and touching. Being there to capture these moments felt like a privilege, witnessing the collective joy and celebration of two people's love.


A delightful surprise wedding cake adorned with the couple's favorite Anime characters, Catbus and Totoro, had everyone laughing. Emily and Patrick's reaction to the custom cake was priceless—they were absolutely thrilled. This thoughtful touch not only added a unique element to their day but also underscored the deep connections and shared joys that make such occasions unforgettable.

Elegant outdoor dining setup with turquoise tablecloths and rattan chairs against Spanish colonial architecture.
Wedding reception table with peacock chairs and turquoise tablecloth set against tropical foliage.
Outdoor dining scene with chef and guests at an elegant table setting.
Sunset wedding reception with peacock chairs and floral arch in a tropical garden setting.
Black and white portrait at an elegant dinner gathering.
Elegant dinner party setting with formal attire and wooden chairs against lush greenery and floral decorations.
Intimate dinner conversation at a wedding reception with peacock chairs and tropical decor.
Elegant outdoor dining setup with peacock chairs, teal tablecloth, and tropical greenery overhead.
Joyful moment captured at an elegant wedding dinner with peacock chair and candlelight.
Diners seated at tables under a glowing neon sign in an outdoor garden restaurant setting at night.
Mediterranean-style villa with pool, cypress trees, and blue dining setup for an elegant outdoor gathering.
Intimate dinner scene with peacock chairs, candlelight, and elegant table settings in black and white.
Formal dinner party guest in black tie attire seated at a decorated table with teal linens.
Elegant evening gathering with formal attire and bentwood chairs under vintage neon signage.
Black and white capture of elegant dinner party with peacock chairs and formal table settings.
Black and white photo of diners seated at an elegant outdoor table with decorative place settings.
Spanish villa illuminated at dusk with pool and elegant outdoor dining area.
Joyful dinner party moment with chocolate cake and teal tablecloth under garden lights.
Candlelit dinner party with wicker chairs and formal table settings.
Chocolate cake decorated with strawberries and cream on a turquoise tablecloth.
Chocolate dessert presentation with toppings on a turquoise tablecloth at an elegant dinner setting.

We also had to take a few photos with the neon Pemily sign of course!

A couple poses on a vintage couch under a red neon sign with decorative lanterns nearby.
A couple shares a playful moment on a couch beneath a glowing red neon sign.
A couple lounges casually on a couch beneath a red neon sign reading 'Penly 2023'.

An intimate wedding doesn't mean you skip the grand moments—Emily and Patrick's first dance, which ended with a bold dip, was proof of that. And what better way to cap off such a beautiful day than with sparklers? It was a dazzling finale to a night filled with joy.

Couple dancing at an outdoor evening event with red neon lighting in the background.
Elegant dance scene with woman in red dress and man in blue velvet jacket at night.
Dancing couple enjoying an evening outdoor celebration.
Intimate embrace during an evening dance on an outdoor patio.
Romantic dance moment captured at night with venue lighting in background.
Couples dancing at night on an outdoor patio with red neon lights in background.
A couple shares a romantic dance moment at night with a red neon sign glowing in the background.
A couple performs an energetic dance move at an outdoor evening reception.
Guests hold sparklers during a nighttime celebration while a couple stands together in the center.
A couple celebrates joyfully under sparklers at a nighttime outdoor event.
A couple dances and smiles while guests hold sparklers during an evening celebration.

As the stars twinkled above a day filled with irreplaceable moments, Emily and Patrick's intimate wedding journey reminds us that at the heart of every celebration is love and authenticity. Surrounded by the closest of family, their day wasn’t just about the beautiful details or the place settings—it was about the shared looks, the inside jokes, and the kind of joy that only comes when you're truly in the moment. It's weddings like these, brimming with personality and heart, that resonate long after the last sparkler burns out. To Emily and Patrick, thank you for letting me capture the essence of your day—here’s to countless years of laughter and love, just as vibrant and spirited as your wedding day.


A huge shout-out to the talented group of vendors who brought Emily and Patrick’s wedding vision to life. The serene De Tierra Events provided the perfect canvas for this intimate celebration. Valley Flores Designs adorned the venue with stunning floral artistry, while Kiss Me in Carmel Vintage Rentals added layers of charm with their curated pieces. The bride's elegant steps were courtesy of Sam Edelman, leading to an aisle graced by the exquisite design of KYHA Studios. Adornments from Cult Gaia added a hint of sparkle, as did the groom, tailored to the nines by Yaly Couture. And the culinary delights crafted by Chef Jacques Zagouri rounded out the sensory experience. Each of you played a pivotal role in weaving this magical day, and I am grateful for your dedication and artistry.