California Winter Wedding from Erin Hearts Court + Danielle Ambler

There’s love at first sight and then there’s what I am feeling for this breathtaking Carmel Mission Basilica affair, which is actually more like a complete and total obsession that started the very minute I laid my eyes on these glorious images captured by Erin Hearts Court and Jen Lauren Grant.  That’s what tends to happen when a seriously stunning bride brings her rustic + classic vision to life with the help of some of CA’s finest vendors, including the amazing Atelier Joya and Tulips & Twine.  It’s natural hues meets beautiful blooms aplenty and it’s all sitting pretty in the full gallery.  Join me there for more.

From the Bride… My wedding was an absolute dream to plan. From the location to the favors, I enjoyed every minute of it. The inspiration for our big day was to have a place where family and friends would surround us and enjoy every moment of our celebration. Bernardus Lodge, in Carmel Valley, made that easy to achieve. From the moment my husband and I stepped on the property we knew it was “the place”, it had the warmth and rustic elegance that spoke to us. SMP helped me find my glorious photographers, Erin Hearts Court, and my color scheme was built one layer at a time. I knew that I wanted a lot of wood and natural elements surrounding me on my big day, but I also wanted to incorporate clean and crisp details that would contrast and compliment the rustic-ness. An abundance of white flowers, lavender, J.Crew slate grey dresses, wooden accents, delicious looking paper and a whole lot of love, and joy, made my day absolutely unforgettable and the favorite day of my life. The Carmel Mission and Spanish guitarists at my reception added another personal touch and a tie to my mother’s ancestry. A 1967 red mustang grooms cake, by Sweet Tooth Confections, and Toby Keith’s, “Red Solo Cup” made the night uniquely ours. By combining things I loved with ideas from SMP and other clever brides, I created a perfect day for my husband and I.

Wedding Photography: Erin Hearts Court Photography with help of Jen Lauren Grant / Ceremony Venue: Carmel Mission Basilica in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California / Reception Venue + Favors + Wedding Cake: Bernardus Lodge in Carmel Valley, California / Wedding Planning: Tulips & Twine / Location Planner: Nicole Cabantac of Bernardus Lodge / Floral Design: Atelier Joya / Wedding Cinematography: BigTime Video Services / Groom’s Cake: Sweet Tooth Confections / Music: Trio Paz / Stationery: Olive & Emerald (invitations) / Linens + Chairs: Chic Events / Photo Booth: Pure Photo Lounge / Wedding Tree: Mélangerie Inc. / Wedding Dress: Lazaro / Bride’s Veil: Family Heirloom / Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin / Bridesmaids + Flower Girls’ Dresses: J.Crew / Hair + Makeup: Bernardus Lodge Spa