Molly + Cary - A Colorful Fall Wedding at Carmel Valley's Bernardus Lodge

Molly and Cary were married in Carmel Valley at one of the most incredible venues I’ve ever been to, Bernardus Lodge and Spa. This 5-star resort has sweeping views of the Santa Lucia Mountains, a garden ceremony space, a vineyard perfect for sunset photos and so many amenities for your guests to enjoy. Shout out to Kandace Photography for being so fun to work with and beautifully capturing the magic of this day so the couple and their loved ones can relive it over and over again.

The bride got ready in her suite, accompanied by her besties, mother, and Blush Monterey. She rocked a romantic lace robe and glamorous curls while pouring pink champagne for her crew, and then slipped into her show-stopping Blush by Hayley Paige West Embellished Trumpet Gown. The dress had a sweetheart neckline, sequin embellishment and low scoop back, and Molly paired it with an incredible lace lined cathedral veil and dramatic crystal earrings.

Cary and his groomsmen got dressed right down the hall. They all wore classic black tuxedos with black ties and the groom wore a handsome grey tuxedo with a black striped lapel. They took selfies and smiled for photos, excitedly waiting to walk their groom to the ceremony space for his first look.

The gardens were a spectacular maze of green hedges, wildflowers, rose gardens and little pumpkins. I was lucky enough to get to take a few moments to watch this first look and, just like most of the wedding party, was in tears. When they saw each other for the first time their smiles were radiant. This is why I love planning weddings. These moments and emotions are memories I’ll never forget.

The ceremony also took place in the garden. A trendy acrylic sign wrapped in eucalyptus greeted guests carrying cocktails from the resort’s lively bar walked through the winding botanical pathways to find an unforgettable stage with two stunning floral arrangements by Petite Petal, a white linen backdrop that moved gently with the wind, and pretty pink petals to mark the aisle.

Molly’s father walked her under two greenery covered arbors and up to the stone steps to meet her groom and Rick, the most incredible officiant from aVow Ceremonies and Celebrations. She wore a huge smile the entire way, carrying a bouquet packed full of unique tropical flowers and lush greenery. Cue the tears again as these two shared their favorite relationship memories and promised to love and care for each other for the rest of their lives. Finally, they celebrated with the breaking of the glass and their very first kiss as husband and wife! Mazel tov!

Who doesn’t want to start married life off with champagne and tasty appetizers. These two enjoyed a quick snack before family and wedding party photos and we’ve got to tell you, we tried each one of these bite sized dishes and they were delicious!

After their crew wandered off to join happy hour, Kandace and David Thomas were left alone with Cary and Molly for the most romantic sunset photo session. These two walked through the vineyards, Molly’s veil blowing in the breeze, and then the photographer found a perfect spot, bushels of pink flowers on each side of a stone pathway, for bridal portraits and a few more shots of the happy couple before sending them off to join the tail end of happy hour. A close up of the bouquet shows off the most impressive protea we’ve ever seen, this flower made appearances in so many 2018 weddings and we’re glad to see it’s not going anywhere in 2019!

The cocktail hour and reception took place in the venue’s courtyard. A grassy area was perfect for sunset photos and yard games, but the patio, where dinner was served, was the grand finale. Market lighting hung over tables with centerpieces so amazing I included not one, but four photos of them. The florals were so unique and packed full of color and texture that the arrangements looked different from every point of view.

Copper chargers were topped with blush napkins, menus, thank you notes, and sweet treat favors. The bride a groom had matching blush, gold rimmed champagne flutes for toasting and one of the ceremony arrangements was placed in front of their sweetheart table. The dance floor was inconspicuously tucked away in the ballroom behind the bride and groom’s table.

Memorable speeches were shared and a delicious three course meal was served while the sun set on this magical day. After dinner, guests were invited inside to watch Molly and Cary share their first dance to XO by Beyonce and then the party got started with Sound in Motion Entertainment! This group danced the night away, stopping only for a bite from the dessert bar or moments in the photo booth. This wedding left me feeling happy and fully of energy. I feel so lucky to have witnessed two incredible people say I Do, and meet their families and friends in the process. Congratulations Molly and Cary!! I wish you a lifetime of Carmel Valley vacations, Beyonce dance parties, and moments as breathtaking as your first look. Welcome to Married Life. XOXO