January 26, 2023 / Wedding Photography
Spiritual Big Sur Wedding at Garrapata Beach | Jason & Lizzy
If you’re looking for inspiration to help you plan a nature-inspired spiritual Big Sur wedding, you’re in the right place, friend.
Jason & Lizzy took every step of their wedding day to heart and made it meaningful. The ceremony began on Garrapata Beach with an open meditation. And the reception took place at one of the gorgeous venues surrounded by the California Redwoods, Big Sur Lodge! From start to finish, no detail was overlooked.
Jason & Lizzy’s Love Story
Jason and Lizzy are a connected, laid-back, adventurous couple. They met at an Eclipse Festival, hiked to the summit of Mount Whitney, where they shared their first kiss at the top (swoon!), and got engaged on the Kalalau Trail in Kauai! They also practice acro yoga together. Check these two out…they’re awesome!
To say they are nature enthusiasts would be an understatement! In Lizzy’s own words, “Our spirituality is based on nature and the interconnectedness of all creation.”
They wrapped all their interests into their spiritual Big Sur Wedding beautifully, so let’s dive in, and I’ll share some more details of their big day!
Big Sur Wedding Ceremony at Garrapata Beach
Garrapata Beach is a gorgeous location for any wedding. But I must admit, when they told me the ceremony would be smack dab in the middle of the afternoon, I was nervous about how the photos would turn out. As a photographer, we’re always looking for the best light (usually early morning or toward sunset.) But, Jason is a great photographer, knew the sun would be bright, and wanted to go for it!
Open Meditation by Deanna Renee Falge
The couple didn’t do a first look, so the first time Jason saw Lizzy was as she walked toward him on the beach. Once she reached Jason, they had an open meditation, song, and prayer led by Deanna Falge, followed by moving readings from each bridesmaid and groomsman.
Lizzy and Jason had very personal vows that were intuitive and lovely to listen to. Everyone was captivated by their loving words for each other.
The couple then planted a Redwood tree and had their Moms water it with them.
They exchanged rings, said ‘I DO!”
To top it all off, the newlyweds danced back down the aisle in joy, setting the tone for their fun-filled reception!
After the ceremony, we took group photos on the beach before heading to the reception area. When I say they have a fantastic group of friends and family, I’m not joking. This group was so much fun, and really enjoyed the camaraderie with each other. And I can’t help but smile seeing these mini-friend huddles they had!
Big Sur Wedding Photos in the Redwoods
With all of my wedding couples, I ask what photos are the most important to them. For Lizzy and Jason, it was to capture intimate photos of just the two of them!
So once we got back to the lodge from the ceremony site (about a 25-minute drive), I snuck Lizzy and Jason away for a few minutes for some couple’s photos in the Redwoods! Their dreamy Big Sur wedding photos reflect their passion for each other, with a backdrop that highlights their love for nature!
Big Sur Wedding Reception at Big Sur Lodge
Big Sur Lodge is one of my favorite wedding venues for receptions in the area. The space can hold up to about 80 guests, but Lizzy and Jason had about 40-50 guests, and to me, that seemed like the sweet spot. Not too crowded, with plenty of space for dancing, and still very intimate!
Jason and Lizzy went the extra mile to make their special day even more meaningful – they included a land acknowledgment speech at their wedding reception in Big Sur! This was a meaningful part of honoring the traditional caretakers of the land who have such a rich history in this area. It’s just another way they made their wedding day meaningful for them.
Remember how I said this couple practices acro yoga together? Apparently, that’s not all. They also had an awesome dance choreographed, and Lizzy did a backflip during their dance IN HER WEDDING DRESS!! It was a surprise to the guests, and wowed everyone!
Moments like these make me pinch myself that I get to be a Big Sur wedding photographer!
The fun and dancing didn’t stop with these two! The dances with their parents were equally as lively and fun! And props to the DJ (also part of their community of friends)…she was amazing!
It’s All In The Details and Vendors
Jason and Lizzy really embraced the details of who they are and what they love to make their wedding feel special and intimate. From the ceremony meditation, the planting of a Redwood tree, the sentimental brooch Lizzy attached to her bouquet from her grandmother, and so much more…this wedding is one that I still remember vividly.
The incredible vendors that contributed to this wedding played a key role in making this wedding one to remember. Let’s take a look at all the amazing people who made Jason and Lizzy’s Big Sur wedding so perfect!
- Lizzy’s Wedding Gown: Lillian West
- Bridesmaids Dresses: AYAsacredwear (handmade and dyed in Indonesia!)
- Florals: Big Sur Flowers by Kate Healy
- Reception: Big Sur Lodge
- Catering: Homestead Restaurant, the signature restaurant of Big Sur Lodge
- Ceremony Open Meditation: Deanna Falge of Earth Embodied Journeys
Another fun little surprise of their day was a gift from Lizzy to Jason! Prior to their wedding, Lizzy and I did a boudoir photoshoot together (you can see check it out here!) She put together an album of her photos and surprised Jason with it the morning of their wedding as a spicy little gift! Jason absolutely loved it!
I hope this has helped you feel inspired by all the ways you can make your wedding day special, intimate, and unique for you and your partner!
Ready to say ‘I Do!’ in a Big Sur Wedding?
If you’ve been dreaming of a dreamy coastal wedding, you can make it happen! Contact me today, and let’s see if I’m the right fit to be your Big Sur wedding photographer!
I don’t often shoot in the mornings, but when I do… I am really not even sure why I was nervous 🤷♀️I miss living in Hawaii and shooting sunrise as much as I short sunset!
So here’s the thing. I am obsessed with Pfeiffer Beach, but it’s a tricky one for various reasons. One of those being wind, and not the good kind. Made it work with one of my favorite families, but I have definitely had to reschedule that location before. Iykyk!!
I haven’t yet met a toddler who didn’t like being thrown in the air. Although, there are times that they aren’t into it, like if they are hangry…or in a middle of a random meltdown. I am certain all of us have been tossed up in the air by one of our parents at some point in our childhood ✨
I know I already said it, but I’ll say it again. The most rad couple at one of my favorite beaches. Bonus gorgeous sunset…the most memorable evening ✨
