Bernardus Lodge | Carley & Ben

Carley and Ben are two of the sweetest people, and they wanted a wedding that felt exactly like them, small, intimate, and surrounded by the people they love most. They found it in the vineyards of Bernardus Lodge, and watching their day unfold in that gorgeous Carmel Valley light was such a gift.

Bernardus is a luxury Carmel Valley resort, but what makes it unforgettable is the land, eight acres of vineyards, five acres of lavender, an orchard, and big majestic oaks all framed by the Santa Lucia Mountains. You can say your vows with the vines and the mountains stretched out behind you, then wander beneath a vine-draped pergola for portraits. It is romantic in the most effortless way, and for a couple who wanted intimate and beautiful, it was perfect.

Their palette was soft and classic, dusty blue and navy against crisp white florals and so much greenery, a perfect match for the vineyard setting.

With a violinist playing and the mountains glowing in the distance, Carley and Ben exchanged vows right there among the vines, close enough to reach out and touch the people who came to celebrate them.

Afterward we slipped beneath the pergola and gathered the wedding party in the gardens, soaking up that warm valley afternoon.

As evening settled in, the terrace filled with candlelight and string lights for an intimate dinner, and the two of them stole away into the lavender and the vines for a few quiet portraits in the most beautiful light.

And then everyone celebrated. Carley and Ben, thank you for letting me be part of such a warm, joyful, intimate day. Bernardus was the perfect setting, but it was the two of you and your people who made it so special.

The Dream Team

• Venue & Catering: Bernardus Lodge & Spa
• Photography: De Joy Photography
• Videography: K Mathey Photography
• Florals: Unskripted Design
• DJ & Entertainment: Belmont Entertainment
• Hair & Makeup: Blush Monterey
• Officiant: Monterey Wedding Officiant