Tyler and Mary knew they wanted a destination wedding from the start, but the question was, “where?” To make that decision, the couple traveled back in time to the trips they had taken together. “One of our all-time favorite vacations was driving the Pacific Coast Highway, which included a night in Big Sur,” says the bride. “We instantly fell in love with the place and it became our favorite stop on our trip.” Big Sur was the perfect combination of beauty for their guests and sentiment for the couple.

Early on in the planning process, the couple decided to limit the guest list to immediate family. This had several perks, but the best was the bonding time for Mary and Tyler’s loved ones. “Everyone was excited at the idea of getting to spend three days with the two families together,” says Mary. Come wedding weekend, the group of 13 spent many wonderful hours together. This included a hike at Andrew Molera State Park, which ended at the beach – the perfect way to introduce their loved ones to the beauty of Big Sur.

Tyler and Mary’s chosen venue, the Ventana Inn & Spa, was a perfect fit for this small, close-knit group. The heartfelt ceremony took place overlooking the Pacific Ocean. “Walking down the aisle to see my fiancé and family looking back at me, with the most amazing backdrop of the Pacific Coast behind them, is a moment I will never forget,” says the bride. “The reception dinner that followed, however, was a pretty close second.”

To celebrate, the wedding group moved to the Ventana Inn’s restaurant for an intimate dinner under an arbor. “There was dancing, toasts were given and stories and laughter were shared,” reflects Mary. “It was a very special night celebrating the joining of two families.” Not only did Tyler and Mary achieve a beautiful destination wedding, but a beautiful experience for all in attendance.

 VENDORS: Photographer: Feather & Twine Photography, Event Planning and Design: Alison Events Planning + Design, Ceremony/Reception Site: Ventana Inn & Spa, Florist: Natalie Bowen Designs, Stationery: Minted, Gown From: Stardust Celebrations, Groom’s Clothing Designer: Giorgio Armani, Officiant: Life Celebrations, Rentals: Wine Country Party & Events, Linens: La Tavola Linen, Music: Kelly Productions