Bernardus Lodge | Lily & Caeden

Lily and Caeden brought so much warmth to their day, and you could feel it from the very first moments of the morning. They chose Bernardus Lodge in Carmel Valley for their wedding, and it turned out to be the perfect backdrop for the kind of timeless, joyful day they wanted. I loved every minute of getting to document it.

The getting ready hours are some of my favorites, and Lily's were full of quiet anticipation. The light coming through the windows was so soft, and those little details, the shoes and the bouquet tied with a blue ribbon, set the tone for everything that followed.

Then came the first look. Caeden waited under the vine-draped pergola, and when Lily walked up behind him, the way the two of them came together was just so genuine. There were big smiles, a long hug, and that look you only get when you have been waiting all morning to see each other.

Their palette was classic and fresh, crisp white florals with blue accents and so much greenery, all of it set against the lavender and the vines. It felt completely at home in Carmel Valley, and it gave every photo that soft, sunlit feeling.

Bernardus Lodge sits among eight acres of vineyards and five acres of lavender, framed by the Santa Lucia Mountains. We took some time in the lavender rows for portraits, and that light through the field is something I will never get tired of. It made the whole afternoon glow.

The ceremony space was stunning. Tall cypress trees, the mountains beyond, and those beautiful blue and white porcelain vases overflowing with white blooms lining the aisle. A guitarist played as everyone gathered, and the warm light made the whole setting feel like a dream.

Lily walked down the aisle on her father's arm, and from there it was all heart. Vows, rings, a few happy tears, and then that kiss with the valley stretched out behind them. When they turned to walk back up the aisle as a married couple, the joy on both their faces said everything.

After the ceremony we gathered everyone close for family and group photos. It is always such a gift to see all the people who love a couple most, standing together in one place on a day like this.

As the afternoon turned golden, Lily and Caeden and I slipped away for a few more portraits. The veil catching the light, the vineyard rows, and that last bit of sun over the lavender, the two of them just kept laughing and leaning into each other. These are the frames I get most excited to share.

The reception came together so beautifully. Long tables dressed in white with greenery runners, low arrangements of white and blue, and those sweet menu cards tied with ribbon at every place. It all sat under string lights with the courtyard and mountains around it.

From the cake cutting to the toasts to the dancing as the lights came on, the energy never let up. There was so much laughter, so many heartfelt words, and a whole crowd of people who clearly adore these two.

Lily and Caeden, thank you for trusting me with your day. Bernardus was the perfect setting, but it was the two of you and your people who made it so warm and so special. I am so happy for you both!

The Dream Team

• Venue: Bernardus Lodge
• Planning & Coordination: A Sparkling Event
• Photography: De Joy Photography
• Florals: H & J Flowers
• Catering: Party For Your Palate
• DJ & Entertainment: Kelly Pro Monterey
• Videography: K Mathey Photography
• Rentals: Chic Event Rentals
• Makeup & Hair: MUAH Makeup and Hair