Grant + Melanie [Married] Carmel Mission Basilica + Carmel Valley Ranch // Carmel Wedding Photographer

For three and a half years, Grant resided in Pennsylvania and Melanie in California. No matter the miles between them, they were there for each other and they were right for each other. The distance taught them the most valuable skill of all – communication. It laid the foundation of a beautiful relationship for a stunning couple. Grant and Melanie found me via referral from one of my August couples and friends, Andrew and Kelsey (see their wedding here). We met and I fell in love with them. The way they exchanged wistful glances and held hands made me melt. The story of how Grant few all the way from college in Pennsylvania for the weekend to surprise Melanie and propose made my heart jump with excitement. I love, love and I love these two.

Their day was simply magical. Both the girls and boys got ready at the lovely Carmel Valley Ranch before moving on to the Carmel Mission Basilica down the road. The morning was calm, everyone knew their part and executed it flawlessly.

Giddy with excitement, Melanie was simply beaming ear to ear. The 15 minute drive to the mission was a special one. Not only were they escorted in a vintage Rolls Royce, but Melanie and her father had one-on-one time together. Precious minutes that they will both cherish forever.

Nothing quite like an end of isle – I just got married – I love you so much – oh my goodness we did it – kiss!

The reception took place at the beautiful Carmel Valley Ranch. Everything about this place is amazing. I honestly can’t wait to go back. Not only is it beautiful and unique – but the food was… MARVOLOUS!  I might just have to book a trip there for me and the hubby!

Melanie and Grant kept it simple and elegant with their décor. Stems of hydrangea, clear glass, crystal, and mirrors, all kept the look clean and sophisticated.

Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs.  Wishing you both an amazing lifetime together!!

Vendors: Wedding Planner, Giulia Events (Carmel and Italy); Florist, Christine Cater;  Catering, On-site, Carmel Valley Ranch; Bridal Gown Designer, Anne Barge; Bridal Store, Kinsley James (Walnut Creek); Bridal Jewelry, Kinsley James; Bridal Gown Accessory, “Melanie” Belt by Something Treasured; Hair and Make up, 10.11 Makeup; Invitations, Inviting Ways (Walnut Creek); Cupcakes, Sprinkles Cupcakes (San Jose)

  1. […] this year I drove South exactly 110 miles to the beautiful Carmel Valley. Grant and Melanie can to me as a referral from past couple and friends, Andrew and Kelsey. Their ceremony took place […]

  2. Julie P says:

    So pretty!!

  3. OMG – How fabulous! My favorites are the bride’s expressions during the toast and the black and white dance photos. However, everything about this wedding looks elegant. Can I ask how you angled your lights during the toasts? Was it off camera? They just look SO good compared to the last couple indoor toasts I’ve tried to get 🙁

    • HazyLaneStudios says:

      Hi Karina! Thank you for your kind words! For the toast, I used on camera flash – bounced. I also had help with the videographers lights! The space for toasts was VERY tight, so we worked together (myself, my second and the videographer) to light the space.

      XoXo – Karey

  4. You really captured their special day beautifully xoxo

  5. Great job, Karey! These are fabulous!

  6. Another beautiful wedding!!! The black and white pullback in the church is just perfection!!

  7. What a lovely love story matched with gorgeous images of their lovely wedding!

  8. Jen says:

    Stunning!! I’m with Laureen. The church. Wow. The b&w dancing. Wow.
    Gorgeous!

  9. Maura says:

    Stunning photos! I love everything you’ve captured with this wedding!

  10. Beautiful images Karey!!

  11. Laureen says:

    Oh my goodness, Karey. I am dying here! Each image is more amazing than the last. I loved the getting ready shots but that church. Gasp. I want to go there.
    The reception pictures, especially that BW of them dancing with the back of her dress.
    Sigh.
    Just stunning.

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