We had been looking forward to Catherine and Ben’s big day since we met them over zoom. Not only did they seem like a super cool couple, but their wedding was in Monterey, CA, known for its stunning coastal views and marine life—need we say more?

Since they hired both Danielle and Deanne Photography and All Because He Asked videography, we decided to make it a family vacation! We piled the kids in two mini vans, brought along Nana and Papa Tom to watch the kids on wedding day, and hit the road! We love when things work out like this.  

California’s Central Coast was a perfect choice for Catherine and Ben’s destination wedding. The couple lives in Modesto, but they have family and friends who traveled in from all over, including Michigan—Ben’s home state. They wanted their wedding to feel like a vacation; and Monterey gave them a destination feel with only a couple hours’ drive. The couple stayed at the InterContinental Monterey, which sits right on the water! Ben saw his beautiful bride for the first time with the sea beside them, and a pleasant ocean breeze making the day's warm temperature perfect!

After their first look, Catherine and Ben took the time to say their vows to one another in a private setting. Reading personalized vows prior to the ceremony can be an ideal option for many couples. It can relieve some of the nervousness, but it is also a great way to really let your partner’s words soak in. In short, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the moment without a lot of eyes on you. Not to worry it will feel like you are hearing it for the first time again at the ceremony.  

For Cat and Ben their meeting and relationship fell into place perfectly and we can see why! It’s obvious they are comfortable and have tons of fun together. Evident by their toasts and impromptu toasts, Cat and Ben’s friends and family were over-joyed at their nuptials. We could tell their families had already taken them both in as their own.   

Cat and Ben were married at Wave Street Studios, a sun lit indoor/outdoor event venue, and television and recording studio. The studio’s rusting steel exterior, copper clad doors, and reclaimed brick patio offer a simple and timeless elegance. Cat did an amazing job with the neutral décor and put her heart and soul into her DIY flowers from Sola Wood. The flowers were actually made of wood and then Cat dyed and assembled them. They were absolutely beautiful, and brilliant!  

After the ceremony the couple and their families took a shuttle to Berwick Park for family formals and Mr. & Mrs. portraits. The coastal backdrop provided the perfect scenery for photos! Cat also brought along a long veil, our favorite to have some fun with.

Catherine, Ben and their guests dined on Paella for dinner and pizza for a late-night snack. For their cake they chose to serve over-sized cookies and feed each other Ben’s grandma’s chocolate cake! We loved this sweet and personalized touch. The newlyweds threw a great party! Everyone danced the night away; in fact, we never saw the dance floor empty!  

Thanks for bringing us along on your destination wedding! We wish you all the best! Enjoy some of our favorite photos!