When Natalie and Rocky realized the fun of planning a wedding was being overshadowed by details that just weren’t important to them, they switched gears and decided on a Big Sur elopement instead! Their vision of exchanging vows with the ocean in the background was brought to life by Jennifer of Blue Daphne Events and Floral Design, who set up a simple pampas grass semicircle that denoted the ceremony space but didn’t block the spectacular view. She also created the coziest floral-covered teepee sweetheart table filled with pillows, blankets, a charcutterie board, and mini wedding cake. Photographer Tessa Tadlock documented the couple’s day from beginning to end and caught every tearful and laugh-filled moment with grace and a truly unique artistry. The Couple:
Natalie and Rocky
The Wedding:
Big Sur, California

The most important thing for us while planning our wedding was to ensure that we were remaining true to ourselves and the integrity of our relationship throughout the process. At the beginning of our wedding planning process, we began to feel consumed by our desire to please others; catering, lighting, venues, transportation, etc. One day (while fretting about place settings and napkins) we looked at each other and said, “Let’s elope!” Every decision in planning our wedding after that came easily; it was about us and our love for each other.

For me, the most memorable part of our day was seeing Rocky&n...