There are so many ways to decide what type of wedding location fits you best. For some people, it’s a view or landscape you’ve never experienced before, and others choose the place they grew up. But for Irene and Cesar, they chose somewhere that fell in line with all of the major moments of their relationship. They had their first date at the beach, got engaged at that same beach, so they might as well get married on a beach!

Irene and Cesar always thought they would have a big wedding, but that vision changed after they got engaged. Instead, they craved intimacy and quality time with each other and their families. So they packed up the car and road-tripped from Southern California, where they live, up to Big Sur for a wedding weekend with their families.

On the morning of their wedding, Irene and Cesar got ready in separate rooms at Big Sur Lodge. Once they all had suits and formal dresses on (the perfect beach attire, right?) everyone loaded into cars and headed to Pfieffer Beach. The beach is one of the most popular spots to visit in Big Sur, so we were thrilled when we found out that off-season weddings were allowed! Irene and Cesar decided to skip a first look and waited until the ceremony to see each other. The excitement and nerves were evident as Irene and her parents made the long walk down the beach to where Cesar was waiting. Their ceremony was officiated by Irene’s brother, which is one of our favorite things about small weddings. Having an officiant who really knows you is extra special!

After the ceremony, everyone exchanged hugs and congratulations. Then their families headed to Big Sur Bakery for their reception while Irene and Cesar explored the beach until the sun finally sank below the horizon. As we lost the sun, the temperatures dropped, but Irene and Cesar cuddled close together to keep warm. They were even up to scaling the cliffside with us, which was so worth it!

They held their reception in the back of nearby Big Sur Bakery. There were charcuterie boards (from which we Coloradans tried our first fresh figs, yum!) and plenty of yummy drinks had, before sitting down for a delicious dinner. They ended the evening with speeches and dancing. Irene and Cesar are an absolutely incredible couple, and it was a joy to see them surrounded by so much love and support. We are so thankful they found us and let us tag along on their adventure!

This elopement took place on Esselen Land.

Photographs

Colorado Elopements

Destination Elopements