Conner and Amelia: La Selva Beach Clubhouse
A colorful and joyous beach wedding
This post is a throw back to several years ago when I was asked by my brother in law and his fiancée to do their wedding flowers. At this point, I was primarily working weddings in the Bay Area, and in Monterey, so the prospect of a local job (and a job for family none the less) was a match made in heaven.
Conner and Amelia are one of the sweetest, most in love couples I’ve seen. They just have that look. The one that involves them getting lost in each other. The one that draws outsiders in, noticing the little looks, the slightest touches, and the ultimate connection of two people perfectly matched.
Amelia’s energy is infectious. I distinctly remember their officiant stating that Amelia was the type of person who woke up each morning, and was ready to shout, “Good Morning” from the rooftops. While getting a chuckle from the guests, that statement couldn’t be more true.
Amelia is exceptionally positive, and genuine. Joy and happiness is infused to every space she enters. Amelia is truly a gift to those around her. She simply radiates, and floats from place to place.
Conner, a bit more reserved, but well suited as her compliment, offering grounding and a peaceful presence. He nature is genuine, and noble; he is extremely articulate and thoughtful. His deep thoughts, and introspective manner are intriguing, and enchanting. A talented musician, he and their officiant made a beautiful memory of playing while the ceremony was getting started.
I have known these two for several years, and watched as their friendship grew into a love story for the ages. It was such an honor to be asked to be part of their day, I couldn’t help but shriek with joy. Knowing what I knew about the bride, this was going to be fun, and WAS IT EVER!!!
I’ll never forget the story Amelia told me about choosing the venue for her wedding. She had planned on using the La Selva Beach Clubhouse, but really wanted an outdoor ceremony. If you know Amelia, she’s part mermaid, and no body of water if safe from her jumping right in! When she saw the cliffs over looking the ocean near the clubhouse, she ran towards them, with arms outstretched, and yelled, “I can’t wait to get married here"!”
The day of the wedding was incredible. Aptos, and La Selva Beach are known to be foggy in the summer. But on this day, the fog lifted for this magical couple, and created the most perfect day at the beach of the year. Sunny, but a light breeze kept guests cool. I specifically remember setting up their ceremony arbor, which was crafted by Amelia’s father from driftwood that they had collected on the beaches nearby. After hanging their pieces, I stepped back to assess it, and saw a huge pod dolphins not far off shore. I don’t know if there could have ever been a more exceptional omen for these two beautiful souls!!!
We devised a plan to include lots of color in her wedding, as she had a brilliant, and unique, idea for a rainbow bridal party. At first I couldn’t envision it, but once I saw it, WOW…. was it ever incredible!! Like, seriously jaw dropping sort of incredible! This is still one of my absolute favorite wedding parties I’ve ever experienced!
After the ceremony, family and friends gathered in the La Selva Beach Clubhouse to welcome Conner and Amelia into this new chapter of their lives.
It was a sweet reception, filled with love and kindness. Everyone came together to bring the event to life, and the feeling of love and appreciation was everywhere in the space.
Friends and family brought appetizers and desserts, tacos were catered in, and the gorgeous ocean themed cake was expertly crafted from The Buttery.
It was a true honor to be part of their day, and it has been even more of an honor to see them continue to build their future. Totally in love. Totally meant for each other.
Location: La Selva Beach Clubhouse
Cake: The Buttery
Florals: Quaintrelle Farms (FKA: Courtney Marie Floral)
Photography: Yuen Lieu Photography