What would it feel like to return to the place where your story began?

R + A’s first date was at Crystal Cove State Beach, which was the perfect spot since he was a surfer and she grew up by the ocean. When we met for their engagement session, we got to visit both their wedding venue and the beach where it all started. I thought it was so sweet that they ended up choosing a location tied so closely to their story, overlooking the same ocean that brought them together.

As we walked to the sand, they shared how their first date included a yuzu-flavored beer, and now they have a fur baby named Yuzu. Details like that showed how sentimental they are and how much they appreciate their entire journey together. We were blessed with the sunniest day and an unforgettable sunset that beautifully melted into blue hour. The colors were obviously stunning, but what stood out the most was how naturally affectionate they were with each other, and how easy it was for them to feel relaxed, present, and deeply connected together.

It wasn’t about recreating their first date moment for moment. It was all about honoring where it all began, while celebrating how far they’ve come. Those are the kinds of stories I love helping couples capture!