
March 11, 2023 / Elopement Wedding Photography
Celebrating Love and Inclusivity: A Same-Sex Carmel Elopement
I’ve been dying to share this Carmel elopement for a while now, but I wanted to make sure I got the details of their love story just right first.
As a wedding and elopement photographer, I’ve heard a lot of great stories about how couples met. But this one really stood out to me. And now, I’m excited to share the details of Jenele and Denise’s Carmel elopement and their unique love story with you.

An Unforgettable (and Unique) Love Story
Jenele and Denise’s love story began through their workplace, but not like you might imagine. They both worked for the police department but had never met in person.
As Jenele recounted, it all began when they would hear each other’s voice in dispatch. Jenele mentioned she thought she’d never have a chance for a date with Denise.
When the two finally met in person, their connection was undeniable. Their love was so intense they quickly began planning their Carmel elopement, and the rest, as they say, is history. Their story is a beautiful reminder that love can happen in the most unexpected of ways.

A Beachside Carmel Elopement: Celebrating Love and Equality
Jenele and Denise’s beachside elopement in Carmel was an intimate celebration of their love and commitment to equality. With only the two of them, their officiant, and Jenele’s mother in attendance, the day was small and private.
Jenele was gorgeous in her dark blue dress, while Denise rocked an awesome light blue suit. The flowers they chose gave their outfits just the right amount of contrast to pull it all together beautifully.


The small cove in Carmel, where they eloped, is a low-key spot that’s tucked away and can feel private on the right day. And even though it’s small, it does have a little bit of variety with beaches, rocks, and ice plants all over. It’s also close to Carmel River Beach, which has an insane amount of pelicans and other sea birds that like to fly over this spot. But no complaints for me, they make great unpaid actors in wedding photos. Check them out in a photo below.











Small Details Made This Carmel Elopement Personal to the Couple
One way to make your elopement day memorable is to pay attention to the small details that are meaningful to you and your partner. And that’s exactly what Jenele and Denise did for their Carmel elopement.
From their personalized vow cards to the carefully chosen flowers, the custom “we eloped” sign, and the the matching jacket Jenele wore after the ceremony to match Denise. Every detail was thoughtfully chosen and tailored for their day.
As you plan your own wedding or elopement, remember the small details can make all the difference. And I’ll photograph all of it, so you’ll remember it all.






Intimate Carmel Elopement
Part of the joys of eloping is that you get to throw convention out the window and do things your way. So, forget about any preconceived expectations and let your imagination run wild! For Jenele and Denise, their Carmel elopement was the perfect representation of their love: intimate and peaceful.









Carmel Elopement Photography: Capturing LGBTQ+ Love
Love is a beautiful thing, and it deserves to be documented in a way that’s most meaningful for you.
If you’re planning a Carmel elopement or wedding in the area, I’d love to be considered as your photographer. Get in touch with me today, and let’s bring your unique love story to life.
