The Perfect Santa Monica Beach Wedding

Fallon and Andrew shared their first date at a tapas restaurant in Santa Monica, just blocks from their future wedding venue. They both adore the outdoors, so a beach wedding was a must. Andrew proposed during a hike at Yosemite National Park above Olmsted Point, with views of the high Sierras and picturesque lakes as far as the eye could see.

The bride and groom were inspired by the natural beach and garden vibes of California and wanted their wedding to convey their love for their family and friends. Fallon and Andrew opted for an intimate wedding at Saint Monica's Church and hand selected the music to add a sentimental touch to the day.

Following the ceremony, guests were encouraged to walk from the ceremony to the reception space, as the gorgeous scenery from the cliffs to the beach below was too beautiful to pass up. Guests were treated to a cocktail hour on the beach as the sun set and the minimalist venue allowed for the stunning views and landscapes to take center stage, while a color palette of blues, blushes and whites perfectly captured the sea.

The bride and groom were very involved in the big day, and took to themselves to create many of the details. The duo designed the wedding invitations, created the gold dipped candle votives, incorporated gorgeous Carrara marble place cards, and Andrew hand-crafted the incredible seating chart. Lovely natural garlands adorned the tables, dotted with florals and succulents to create an earthy vibe.

From the bride:

A favorite moment was when Andrew and I were able to steal away at sunset with our photographer and go down to the beach. We had the most amazing sunset that night as we took pictures along the lapping waves. However, while our photographer Katie was snapping photos, a "sneaker wave" of sorts crashed upon us...Andrew instinctively lifted me up and held me (and my dress!) out of the water and waves, while his calves and shoes became drenched. As we walked back, one bystander made a comment to me, "That's a keeper, I would have made a run for it!" I  have a keeper all right.