We are absolutely thrilled to share this momentous occasion with you! This overview beautifully encapsulates the love, laughter, and unforgettable experiences that have brought us to this enchanting day. As you wander through our wedding website, you'll immerse yourself in the story of our journey together, relive cherished moments from our engagement, and uncover delightful details about the celebration that awaits. We can't wait to share these precious memories with you!

How We Got Here

Our love story began when we met at work. Our journey together started with carpooling, lunch at the beach, a shared interest in music, and many walks and hikes. These experiences led us to the destination of love, where we ultimately said "I do!" and many walks/hikes that led us to the destination of LOVE and to say I DO!

Engagement

The Drive

Heading to Fern River Resort

Our drive from Soledad transformed into a captivating adventure along the breathtaking Highway 1, where each twist and turn unveiled stunning coastal vistas and lush, rolling hills that seemed to stretch endlessly. As we meandered through Moss Landing, the soothing sight of gentle waves caressing the shore and the vibrant activity of the bustling harbor created an idyllic backdrop that felt almost cinematic. The towering smoke stacks nearby sparked fond memories of our recent painting session, infusing the journey with a touch of nostalgia that made the experience even more special.

We continued onward into the vibrant realm of Santa Cruz, a lively coastal gem known for the enigmatic Mystery Spot. Here, the atmosphere crackled with excitement and curiosity. Our thoughtfully curated playlist, rich with calming indie melodies and uplifting Christian tunes, harmonized beautifully with the serene landscapes surrounding us, enhancing the tranquility of the journey.

After a few short hours enveloped in nature’s beauty and musical serenity, we finally arrived at our destination—Fern River Resort. This enchanting retreat, nestled among majestic redwoods that reached for the heavens, offered a peaceful sanctuary away from the bustle of everyday life. It was the perfect conclusion to our scenic drive, leaving us feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and deeply connected to the beauty of our surroundings.

Fern River Resort

For our redwood wedding, we sought a place that would truly immerse us in the stunning beauty of nature. The Fern River Resort was the perfect choice, located just 1-2 minutes from our wedding venue, Henry Cowell Redwood State Park.

Our cabin was a charming retreat, boasting rustic wooden interiors that harmonized effortlessly with the surrounding landscape. The large windows framed breathtaking views of the forest, allowing us to feel connected to nature even while indoors. Just behind the cabin, the San Lorenzo River offered us memorable moments of tranquility and adventure.

Our experience at the cabin was nothing short of exceptional. The cleanliness was impeccable, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. We enjoyed a sense of safety and peace as we cherished our time together before the big day. If you are in search of a cozy cabin to enhance your getaway, we wholeheartedly recommend the Fern River Resort. It’s a remarkable place that will leave you with lasting memories., we highly recommend considering this location.**

The Flower Shack

Discover the magic of The Flower Shack for your custom wedding bouquet! The inviting atmosphere and exceptional customer service will make your experience unforgettable. While I opted for a classic bridal bouquet, the stunning variety of flowers available ensures you can find the perfect pop of color to match your vision. The friendly staff goes above and beyond, attentively asking about your preferences, budget, and whether you'd like a beautiful ribbon wrapped around your bouquet or a small vase for transport. It’s truly a one-stop shop, and I thoroughly enjoyed waiting for my custom bouquet while soaking up the sunshine and feeling the refreshing ocean breeze. Let The Flower Shack help you create a floral masterpiece for your special day!

The Buttery

As part of our redwood elopement, we wanted to embrace the tradition of having a wedding cake, but we envisioned something a bit more intimate to share after our hike back from the ceremony. We decided on the mini cheesecake, and it turned out to be the perfect choice! This delightful cheesecake was a refreshing delight—a true indulgence. The Buttery is renowned for its wide range of options, whether you're seeking a quick snack, an easy treat on the go, or something lavish to celebrate. I can’t wait to return and explore all their other mouthwatering pastries!

Santa Cruz Officiant - Naomi

Working with Naomi was an incredible experience! She truly invested herself in our celebration, tailoring it to reflect our unique personalities perfectly. Her authenticity and creativity brought a special magic to the ceremony, making it truly unforgettable. Naomi is not only grounded and delightful but also exceptionally fun to work with. We are profoundly grateful that she played such a meaningful role in our special day!

Belen Fernandez Photography

Collaborating with Belen was an unforgettable experience that we will treasure for a lifetime. Her ability to beautifully capture the spirit of our redwood elopement left us profoundly grateful. Each image is a testament to her extraordinary talent, as she expertly immortalized the joy, love, and emotional depth of our special day.

With her warm and graceful approach, Belen guided us through the process, ensuring that every precious detail was captured with care. Our celebration unfolded amid the towering majesty of the redwoods, where we embarked on a scenic hike, uncovering various stunning locations that showcased both the breathtaking beauty of nature and the intimate significance of our elopement. Belen's artistry transformed our memories into timeless treasures, making our day even more extraordinary.

Geocaching On Our Wedding Trip

Location #1 - Right outside The Buttery Bakery

Location #2 - West Cliff, also known as Steamer Lane

Location #3 - Felton Covered Bridge County Park

This Brings Us to... The I Do's

After the Wedding... In-N-Out Burger

On our unforgettable wedding day, we made a delightful detour to In-N-Out Burger for a quick yet satisfying meal. The anticipation was palpable as we approached the iconic restaurant, known for its fresh ingredients and mouthwatering flavors. Fred eagerly chose a decadent 4x4 burger, layered with juicy patties and melted cheese, while Corina couldn’t resist the allure of a Double-Double, animal style, bursting with flavor and topped with fresh lettuce, tomato, and that signature spread. Each bite was a delicious celebration, perfectly fueling us for the joyous adventure ahead!

Coldplay Concert

After our enchanting wedding, we eagerly made our way to the sprawling expanse of Stanford Stadium, filled with excitement to witness the extraordinary band Coldplay. The air buzzed with anticipation, reflecting the vibrant energy of the gathered crowd. Our deep-seated love for music has always been a cornerstone of our relationship, weaving our hearts together as we lost hours immersing ourselves in eclectic sounds and discovering new genres that sparked joy in our souls. Experiencing Coldplay on our wedding day was truly a magical moment, as their powerful melodies and breathtaking performances enveloped us in a breathtaking atmosphere. We felt incredibly fortunate to celebrate our love under the dazzling lights and resonate with such powerful music, transforming our special day into an unforgettable celebration of passion and unity.

With that being said, here's some links and resources you might find useful! :)

Shadow Box

Shadow boxes are wonderful for encapsulating memories. We added little keepsakes from our special day.

Wedding Gift

Faith plays a significant role in our lives, and we would greatly appreciate your support for our church. If you feel led to help, please consider donating any amount that is on your heart—no gift is too small. If you ever find yourself in Monterey County, we warmly invite you to join us for a wonderful service on Saturday afternoons at 5 PM or Sunday mornings at 9 AM or 10:45 AM.

Thank You

We hope you enjoyed reading! :)