Nestled along the rugged coastline of California’s Big Sur, where the Santa Lucia Mountains rise abruptly from the Pacific Ocean, Bruce and Ashley chose the idyllic Hyatt Highlands Carmel as the backdrop for their intimate wedding celebration. The couple’s day was a harmonious blend of natural elegance, heartfelt moments, and the majestic beauty of the ocean.
Perched on the cliffs, with panoramic views of the ocean, the Hyatt Highlands Carmel provided the perfect setting for a wedding that was both private and picturesque. It was a place where sophistication met the natural splendor of California’s coastline, making every moment of Bruce and Ashley’s special day feel like a serene retreat from the world.
With meticulous coordination by expert planner Jessica Schmidt, the day unfolded seamlessly. Each detail was crafted to complement the couple’s vision, from the elegant setup of the ceremony to the cozy, candle-lit reception that followed.
Immortalizing the day’s magic was Catherine Leanne Photography, whose keen eye for detail and emotion found expression in every photograph. The candid smiles, the gentle touches, and the golden sunset that graced the celebration were all encapsulated in timeless images.
The wedding’s floral arrangements, created by Floral Design by Reina, echoed the splendor of the surrounding landscape. With arrangements that married rustic charm with coastal hues, the flowers spoke of the couple’s love for the natural world and each other.
Bruce and Ashley’s fashion choices for the day reflected the effortless elegance of their wedding setting. Ashley was a vision in her Grace Loves Lace – Clo gown, which flowed with grace and echoed the undulating waves below. The hair design by Amanda Thiry Hair Design and makeup by Simply Skin Esthetic complemented her natural beauty, showcasing a radiant bride who was ready to embark on a lifetime journey with her beloved.
As the day turned to evening, the intimate gathering of friends and family celebrated the union of Bruce and Ashley under the stars. The sound of the waves provided the perfect soundtrack to their first dance, and the cool ocean breeze carried away the laughter and joy well into the night.
Bruce and Ashley’s wedding at Hyatt Highlands Carmel was not just a celebration of their love but also a testament to the beauty that unfolds when two hearts decide to become one amidst nature’s grandeur. It’s a story of love, of the sea, of the enduring charm of the California coast—and of two people beginning their ever after in a place nearly as enchanting as their devotion to each other.
VENDORS
Venue // Hyatt Highlands Carmel
Planning // Jessica Schmidt
Photography // Catherine Leanne Photography
Florist // Floral Design by Reina
Hair // Amanda Thiry Hair Design
Makeup // Simply Skin Esthetic
Dress // Grace Loves Lace – Clo
