Sarah and Mike traveled all the way from Indianapolis to Big Sur to say “I Do”. Almost a year ago Sarah reached out to photographer Jamie LeMarie through Facebook to ask if she would photograph their elopement.
“When I asked her ‘Why Big Sur?’, I was shocked at Sarah’s answer. She told me they didn’t even know where Big Sur was and that she had found out about my business because her client had come in one day to show them their engagement photos, which were taken by me! Sarah said ‘I know nothing about Big Sur, I just know that is where we want to get married and we want YOU to photograph it”. I was incredibly flattered, and shocked that my photos had made it all the way from California to Indiana!“
Photographer Jamie recalls that she had never had more stylish clients than these two! Together, Sarah + Mike own a salon and workshop, a one-stop shop for your beauty and fashion needs – we love couples who also work together! :) Fleurs du Soleil filled the day with gorgeous florals that greatly accompanied their nature-filled elopement. Let’s take a look!
Matching Shoes and a First Look!
Love her terracotta triangle ring box! So perfect for the setting. :)
White Doc Marten boots – filled with flowers! – FTW!
Sarah’s wedding dress is from an Etsy shop called A&M bridal and she looks absolutely ravishing! The high neckline is so fun and flattering!
The couple started off their day getting ready in the Little Sur cabin at Glen Oaks. After they were ready, the photographer shot their First Look down by the river, followed by a private vow reading and Mike taking Polaroids of Sarah showing off her fabulous wedding dress.
Mike’s look was from Phix Clothing and he paired his attire with these 60’s-inspired Dr. Martens.
GWS TIP: Polaroid cameras are such great items to have on hand for your elopement or wedding day, considering the results are immediate and such great keepsakes to commemorate your big day!
Mike’s most memorable moment was the first look.
Sarah’s most memorable moment was the reading of the vows which happened privately, creekside, after the first look.
A Trek Through the Redwoods
The couple and their photographer made their way to the redwood groves for an intimate ceremony that ended with a dramatic kiss and a happy dance!
“It wasn’t until we took a trip to Yucca Valley/Joshua Tree CA early 2022 that truly inspired our day. Being exposed to that kind of nature not only contributed to our physical well-being but emotionally as well.
We knew eloping in Big Sur, would give us that same tenderness. We created a truly intimate day where the focus was strictly on our relationship…and nature.”
A Trip Down the Coast
Fun fact: The bride has only seen herself in her wedding dress via photos. To this day she still has never seen her reflection in the mirror with it on!
Time to celebrate!! After a few more portraits in the redwoods, everyone hopped in their cars and made their way down Highway One, where they stopped for a quick photo op in the pampas grass and popped a celebratory bottle of champagne. 🍾
How STUNNING is this view! Big Sur certainly never fails to amaze us! 😻
The photographer shares: “We then drove the rest of the way to the cliffs where the fog was just beginning to roll into the hillsides. I took Sarah and Mike on an adventure through the mountains, and over the rocks, where we ended the evening hiking our way back to the cars, our path lit up by lanterns. I have to admit, I was sad to say goodbye. I know for a fact that if Mike and Sarah lived on the Peninsula, that we would definitely hang out again and grab a beer. I can’t thank them enough for choosing me.”
Stay true to yourselves. Follow your hearts. Live in the moment & be present the day of your wedding.
BE UNIQUE!
We’re left in awe…and ready for a trip down the California Coast! Gives us ALL the feels and love that this couple celebrated in nature. Congratulations Sarah + Mike, your day was out of this world!
photography: Jamie LeMaire Photography // venue name: Glen Oaks Big Sur, Big Sur, California, United States // florals: Fleurs de Soleil // wedding dress: A&M Bridal Enterprises // bride's shoes: Dr. Martens // bride's ring: Holden Rings // groom attire: PHIX Clothing // groom's ring: Holden Rings // officiant: Soaring Starkey
