An Intentional Carmel & Big Sur Elopement
Gina and Syd’s Carmel and Big Sur elopement was intentional from the start. It was relaxed, but still full of energy; just like the amazing people they are. They wanted space to be together and a day that gave them time to enjoy what they had planned rather than rush through it.
The day started by getting ready at a quiet Carmel mountain home by LuxeVaca overlooking the ocean. Their dresses from Unbridaled and Jenny Yoo brought a clean, modern feeling to the day, with colorful florals by Fleurs du Soleil and hair and makeup by Blush Monterey.
After their sweet first look, Gina and Syd read their vows privately in the sunroom. They shared those vows again later during their ceremony beneath the redwoods in Big Sur. I loved getting to witness both. Hearing the words twice didn’t take anything away from it for them; instead, it was a joyful and emotional way to hold on to those feelings even longer.
We spent a full day together, but no part of it felt packed in. There was always enough time to enjoy their surroundings with their loved ones, and finish a moment before moving on to the next one. That relaxed timeline also gave me the freedom, as their photographer, to craft a creative and refined wedding gallery for them.
When Gina and Syd first reached out, they told me that they didn’t love hiking. But they did love driving out to the best views, having picnics, and enjoying the moment together. That’s why eloping in Carmel & Big Sur made perfect sense, and that was exactly what we planned for their elopement.
A Big Sur elopement does not have to involve a long hike or an intensely adventurous itinerary. Gina and Syd drove to the places they wanted to experience, took leisurely walks, and spent their time enjoying the views. They ended the day along the coast with cake and champagne, catching the last of the golden light.
That ease and comfort carried through their entire celebration from beginning to end. Even as we captured gorgeous portraits on the coast, they were laughing together and being fully present with one another. It was beautiful because their Big Sur wedding was personal & uniquely their own.
Gina and Syd trusted me to help shape a day that reflected the way they wanted to get married, and it was such a joy to photograph. For couples considering something similar, explore my Big Sur elopement guide or learn more about my approach to elopement photography.
Carmel & Big Sur Elopement Vendors:
Photography & Elopement Planning: Will Khoury Photography | Instagram
HMUA: Blush Monterey Makeup Studio | Instagram
Flowers: Fleurs du Soleil | Instagram
Dresses: Unbridaled | Instagram & Jenny Yoo | Instagram
Luxury Vacation Home: Luxe Vaca | Instagram
