Couple celebrating their marriage in Big Sur after a ceremony performed by Donna Rose Gardner, Santa Cruz and Big Sur Wedding Officiant. Photo by Rebecca Stark Photography

Close-Up of Handfasting Ribbons
A beautiful braided handfasting cord wrapped around the couple’s joined hands, symbolizing unity and eternal love.

Bride writing her vows just before her ceremony in the Forest in Santa Cruz. Photo by Rebecca Stark, Rebecca Stark Photography

An enchanting redwood forest wedding at Sequoia Retreat Center in the Santa Cruz Mountains — a joyful midsummer celebration filled with laughter, magic, and timeless love.

Crossing the bridge to love at Glen Oaks Resort, Big Sur— one step closer to forever beneath Big Sur’s ancient redwoods. Photo by Rebecca Stark Photography

Big Sur Wedding Ceremony at Wind and Sea

Handfasting in the Redwoods

After 35 Years Together, They Said “I Do” at Sunset

After 35 beautiful years of walking through life side by side, they decided it was time to “tie the knot”—and they did it in the most tender, unforgettable way. With my Sunset Elopement Package, they exchanged vows on a bluff high above the sparkling Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz. The light was golden, the breeze gentle, and their love... timeless.

As we made our way up a soft incline to the ceremony spot, her beloved steady by her side, I asked, “Are you okay?” With the sweetest smile, she replied, “Yes. My husband was there to help me.” That one word—husband—said with such joy and pride, just melted my heart.