There are certain places that stay with you long after you’ve left, and for me, Monterey, California is one of those places. Several years ago, I had the privilege of photographing a wedding there, and the experience was nothing short of magical.

The coastline itself set the stage — waves rolling in with their steady rhythm, the salty ocean breeze, and the soft golden light spilling across the sand. Nature seemed to be celebrating right alongside the couple. It’s one of the reasons I love photographing weddings in unique places: every location adds its own character and beauty to the story.

What stood out most that day wasn’t just the scenery, though — it was the emotion. The laughter, the joy, the quiet in-between moments. Against the backdrop of the ocean, those emotions seemed even more powerful, as if the sea was amplifying the love shared by everyone there.

Photographing a wedding in Monterey reminded me of why I fell in love with photography in the first place. It’s not just about capturing posed portraits but about preserving moments that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Whenever I look back at those photos, I can still hear the waves and feel the joy of that day. Monterey gave me more than just a beautiful setting — it gave me a reminder of the timeless beauty of love and family, wherever it’s celebrated.