I don’t know how Jessica & Rafael’s Bayonet Blackhorse wedding day could’ve been any sweeter. From the cards they exchanged at the beginning of the day, to the anticipation before their first look, to last dance, where they were surrounded by a ring of their friends and family holding hands, everything about it was full of love and fun.

I was so looking forward to this wedding. Jessica, Rafael and I had an amazing time during their Big Sur engagement session, so I knew their wedding was going to be fun. We had a great schedule set up: They got ready at Hotel Pacific in Monterey; we were within walking distance of all my favorite Old Monterey photo locations; and we had time for a first look, all the family photos and a nice long photo walk before the ceremony. Also, I had my pal Conner Jay as a second shooter. Oh, and it was my last wedding of a very busy 2013.

We were graced with an amazing sunset at the end of their Bayonet Blackhorse wedding ceremony, which allowed me to make the picture at the top of this blog post.

Jessica’s uncle David, a true renaissance man, was not only the officiant, he also designed Jessica’s dresses. Lots of personal details like this were weaved through their wedding, making it a very unique event for a very special couple.

For my favorite photos of this amazing wedding, see the gallery below: