Winter + Allen’s Beautiful Carmel Beach Wedding

​Recently one of my close friends, Winter, got married. After being engaged for just over a year, Winter had planned the perfect wedding ceremony on the beach in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It was simple, intimate, and oh so beautiful. A reflection of her relationship with her fiance, Allen. With only her closest family members and bridal party to accompany them, Winter and Allen were married on Carmel River Beach. Although the maid-of-honor, I couldn’t stop myself from photographing the absolute beauty of the day: the ocean a vivid turquoise, the green hills sprinkled with yellow flowers, the sky a perfect shade of blue, and the stunning bride and groom. The ceremony was blessed indeed and the love between Winter and Allen was apparent.

After a day of being out on the beautiful beach, we dined downtown Carmel at the beautiful restaurant PortaBella. It was so fancy and elegant but I must admit that the best part was that the restaurant was located next to the Cottage of Sweets, which is a famous Carmel candy store. We made several trips into the store over the course of the evening as we had much to celebrate.

Two days later, Winter and Allen had a separate reception at one of their favorite coffee shops. The theme was a gothic Tim Burton theme and everything was perfect. Elegant red roses were scattered throughout the room along with quirky Tim Burton themed props. And beautiful vegan goodies were spread across a gorgeously laid table. It was such a treat for the guests and it so encapsulated Winter and Allen’s personality – it was perfect!

​Congratulations to you both and thank you for allowing me to be a part of your big day!!!

Flowers by Susan Groves with In Full Bloom. Reception catered by Dzung Duong with Honeyscuckle Catering. Photography by Me (Naphtalie Joiner with Scatter Joy Photos) except for the ceremony photos which were taken by Matt Jensen.

– Naphtalie JOY Joiner