Sunrise Elopement on 17 Mile Drive in Monterey

I’m so excited to share this elopement with you today! Quan and Dilians’ love story is one for the books. Their intimate sunrise elopement on 17 Mile Drive in Monterey County was nothing short of magical. I’m thrilled to share the story of their special day, full of love, laughter, and the most breathtaking scenery.

Sunrise Elopement on 17 Mile Drive in Monterey | Skyler Maire Photography

Quan and I go waaaaay back to our college days in the Film Department at UW-Milwaukee. When he reached out over a year ago about taking engagement photos, it worked out perfectly because I was already heading to LA for a photo retreat. But this blog post isn’t about those engagement photos – it’s about something even more special.

Quan and Dilians wanted an intimate wedding with just the two of them and an officiant. When they thought about who they wanted to officiate their wedding, a friend of Dilians’ came to mind – Bobo. What’s even better? Bobo happens to live really close to their chosen elopement location! It was meant to be. 🙂

Quan and Dilians chose to get married on the iconic 17 Mile Drive in Monterey County – a location filled with sentimental value from a memorable date they had there years ago.

We met early in the morning at the Lone Cypress along 17 Mile Drive. It was an early morning for all of us but totally worth it! We had the place completely to ourselves. The soft, golden light of sunrise painted the scene as Quan waited for Dilians, accompanied by the calming sound of Bon Iver playing softly in the background. Dilians arrived separately, and their first look was seamlessly woven into the ceremony itself. Watching them exchange vows with no one around except the ocean breeze and the towering cypress trees was a profoundly moving experience.

After their ceremony, we took a little drive along the full 17 Mile Drive and made a couple of stops along the way (including one stop at a local convenience store so that I could buy more AA batteries for my Instant camera, hahaha)! We stopped at Fanshell Beach and Seal Rock Beach, where the newly wed couple enjoyed some sparkling juice and watched the waves crash along the shoreline. It was one of those mornings that just feels like pure magic – love, joy, and total photographer bliss. 🙂

We wrapped up the day with a celebratory lunch downtown with Bobo, followed by some much-needed coffee to recharge after the early start. The day was simple yet so incredibly special.

One of the unique aspects of documenting this elopement was the variety of mediums I used: digital photography, 35mm film, and an instant camera. The combination brought a dynamic and timeless feel to their gallery which perfectly captured the emotion and magic of the day.

Quan and Dilians, thank you so much for inviting me to document your sunrise elopement on 17 Mile Drive in Monterey. It was an absolute honor to be part of your love story, and I’m so grateful to have witnessed such a beautiful chapter in your lives. <3

Enjoy scrolling through some of my favorite images from their incredible sunrise elopement on 17 Mile Drive in Monterey!

Planning Your Own Elopement? Let’s Get in Touch!

Planning your own elopement in or near the West Coast? I would love to document your special day as well! Feel free to learn more about me. If I sound like the elopement photographer for you, then inquire with me. In the meantime, check out more elopements and weddings on the blog for inspiration!