Oh elopements, how I love thee – you are a quick and intimate ceremony and about two hours of mellow shooting with two lovers and no distractions. I am photo-selfish, and can’t help but be disappointed when my favorite photos from a wedding day (the bride and groom of course) get minimized to the last 5 minutes of the cocktail hour. There needs to be a little downtime in the day, a time for the couple to reflect on their new union, and to just experience the moment. And during an elopement, there’s plenty of room for that to happen. I met Nikki and Glenn at the Old Monterey Inn, a historic building turned B&B with the most amazing (and hidden) landscaping. I was able to capture a few getting ready photos, then it was just me, the couple, Nikki’s parents, and the officiant. Clean, simple, intimate, and memorable. Afterwards, we explored the property for photo ops – including the handsome dark interior of the inn itself. Towards the end of our time together, we whisked off to Lover’s Point, the popular green lawn and boulder park in Monterey. Thing is, though, it’s December – think bone-chilly and very windy at the coast. At the inn, we were protected from the weather, but here we were open to the elements. I was unable to feel my hands after a few minutes, but remembering I wasn’t the one wearing a dress, I manned up and got productive. I started barking orders like a Hollywood Director two weeks behind schedule. I don’t think I was being mean, but man we got our shots and got out. And looking at the photos, you wouldn’t know we were all freezing our asses off. Thanks for team effort guys, you totally rocked it. My favorite photos are below…
Planning a romantic elopement in the Monterey / Carmel area?
Bay Area Destination Wedding Photographer Chris Schmauch wants to capture the moment! (831) 216-6210
If you haven’t already, feel free to review our portfolio site, browse past elopements, check our romantic engagement sessions, follow our business on Facebook (like us while you’re at it!), or read our awesome Yelp reviews.