Justin and Jenna took a leap of faith with me, even before they had formally booked their wedding venue. Booking nearly 18 months in advance, they knew what they wanted for their wedding day, they just needed to work on logistics. It was so much fun to watch, nearly from day 1, how this wedding came together from scratch. They knew they wanted an intimate wedding, they new they wanted to be by the beach, and they knew most of their wedding would be DIY (which honestly terrified me)…

They found this quaint little historic Victorian B&B, nestled cliffside in Capitola, overlooking the Monterey Bay. Monarch Cove Inn was the perfect location for their, “I do’s,” and an afternoon reception. I arrived early to get the lay-of-the-land and walk the property. Although the property is not expansive, it is stunning and filled with beautiful gardens, a eucalyptus-line trail, and lots of little nooks that make you feel like you’re a million miles away from reality.

As Jenna finished getting ready, a pod of dolphins were swimming in the cove. After watching them for a few minutes, Jenna slipped into her Chantilly lace Michael Christopher gown. The room was immediately silenced for the first time all morning. All eyes were on Jenna as she officially became a bride.  Her mother tied her custom sash, and placed her bracelet onto her wrist. The final touch was the veil – the same veil her mother wore when she walked down the aisle decades before.

The ceremony was picturesque. I’ll admit, there were a few moments where I simply just watched and took everything in. With personal touches throughout the ceremony, both Jenna and Justin were beaming from ear to ear as they were pronounced husband and wife.

As guests entered the reception, they truly witnessed all of Justin and Jenna’s hard work. With the help of family, they had done it all. All of the floral arrangements. The “Thank You” notes on the chargers. The gold polka dotted champagne flutes. The wrapped madeline favors. The dessert bar. The table runners and numbers. Not to mention, they also did their hand-tied wedding programs and their custom press-printed invitations with gold-foil lined envelopes.

As a five piece band played, Justin and Jenna were introduced as husband and wife. They went directly into their first dance, and Justin twirled Jenna on the dance floor – you could easily see his admiration for her in his eyes. After the perfect dip-and-kiss, they sat at their sweetheart table in front of their guests.

The buffet style lunch was provided by Five Star Catering and was amazing! Most guests went back for seconds, some even thirds! After speeches, plates were cleared and guests began to dance and mingle. Then a first happened for me – A caricature artist! YES! Nearly everyone took advantage – what a unique touch! While photobooths are all the rage, Jenna and Justin wanted a more personal touch and do something that would be unique for each guest. So. Much. Fun.

Post reception, Jenna, Justin and I took off down the street to do a personal couple session on the beach. As the sun set behind a pier, we allowed the dress to get a little dirty and had a blast capturing the love the two of them shared. There was no pressure – it was all done and all that remained was the two of them – together. It was magical.

I hope you enjoy this wedding as much as I did…

Thank you to the following vendors:

Catering: Five Star Catering

Cake: The Buttery

Band: Lucky Devil’s Band

Bridal Dress: Michael Christopher from Haute Bride in Los Gatos

Hair: Jeannie Flint/Salon 77 West

Makeup: Christa Warthemann

Caricature Artists: Cali Caricature

DIY: Flowers, Invitations, Favors, Table Numbers, Place cards, Table Runners, Dessert Bar (Bride’s Aunts and Mother Baking), Welcome bags, Bridesmaids bags and hangers, Ring bearer and flower girl “pillows”, Flower girl dress embellishments, and Additional décor.