A Colorful Carmel Valley Ranch Wedding | Megan and Mihir

Megan and Mihir’s Carmel Valley Ranch wedding was a beautiful reminder that the most meaningful celebrations are the ones that feel true to you. Their day was colorful, heartfelt, and full of those little moments that make a wedding so special. With a tearful first look, personal vows, sunset portraits on a hill, and one heck of a dance party to close it all out.

Getting Ready at Carmel Valley Ranch: A Meaningful Start

Megan and Mihir chose to keep their morning low-key and intimate. No official wedding party, just a few close friends and family by their sides. Megan spent the morning getting ready with her mom, and it was truly one of the most special parts of the day.

They laughed, sipped champagne, and took their time soaking in the quiet moments before everything began. Watching her mom help her into her dress, carefully zipping it up, putting on her wedding shoes, and holding back tears, was such a beautiful reminder of the bond they share. You could feel how proud and emotional her mom was, and how much it meant to Megan to have her there in such a hands-on way.

It was a morning full of love, comfort, and that kind of grounding presence only a mother can give. These are the moments that make wedding mornings feel so sacred. Small but unforgettable.

A First Look That Said It All

They shared their first look on a bridge tucked away, and the second they saw each other, everything softened. Megan teared up (so did Mihir), and you could just feel the comfort and love they find in one another. It’s moments like this that remind me why I do what I do. Not just to take beautiful photos, but to freeze time for couples on the biggest day of their lives.

Vineyard Lawn Ceremony Full of Personal Touches

Their ceremony on the vineyard lawn was just as meaningful as you’d expect from a couple like them. Megan’s two brothers officiated (cue all the happy tears), and her mom read a special passage that made the whole space feel even more intimate. Then came their vows. Completely personal, deeply emotional, and so moving that not only were they wiping away tears, so was half the guest list.

And can we talk about the florals for a second? They leaned into color in the best way. Fun, bold blooms that added the happiest pop against the natural vineyard backdrop.

Vineyard Views & Live Music at Cocktail Hour

After the ceremony, guests wandered through the vines to cocktail hour, where they were greeted with a stunning view of Carmel Valley Ranch and the valley below. A live two-man band brought the perfect laid-back vibe, while trays of delicious hors d’oeuvres floated through the crowd and the bar stayed busy. It felt more like a really good summer party with all your favorite people. Relaxed, joyful, and full of energy.

Reception Details at Carmel Valley Ranch: Thoughtful Touches and a Warm, Welcoming Space

While guests enjoyed cocktail hour, the reception space was coming to life. Full of thoughtful details that made it feel both intentional and relaxed. Soft sage green napkins paired beautifully with woven wicker chargers at each place setting, adding a natural, textured touch that felt just right. Personalized menus, place cards, and charming signage tied everything together with a warm, personal vibe.

The space featured a stunning mix of farm tables and round tables, creating an elegant and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complemented the natural beauty of Carmel Valley Ranch. Every detail came together seamlessly to create a truly beautiful setting for Megan and Mihir’s celebration.

Sunset Portraits at the Top of the Ranch

As the sun dipped lower, we hopped in a car and made our way to the top of the hill. There’s a beautiful little platform up there that gave us the perfect view of the sunset. Soft golden light, warm skies, and that peaceful feeling that settles in at the end of a really good day.

Megan and Mihir fully leaned into the moment, dancing, laughing, holding each other close and just soaking it all in. These portraits felt effortless and full of joy. The kind of golden hour magic that makes your heart skip a beat.

Converse Sneakers & A Packed Dance Floor

When the dance floor opened, it stayed full all night long. Later in the evening, Megan, Mihir, and her whole family changed into Converse sneakers and kept the party going in total comfort and style. It was such a fun, unexpected twist that perfectly captured their energy: laid-back, joyful, and fully present.

And just when the night couldn’t get more magical… it did.

We stepped out for one final photo under the night sky, with the moon shining bright above them. Megan has always loved the moon and stars, so it felt like the perfect way to close out the evening. Quiet, beautiful, and a little bit cosmic. A sweet, peaceful ending to a day full of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

Wedding Planner: Confetti & Cocktails; Venue: Carmel Valley Ranch; Photography: Natalie Renee Photography; Florist: Rosalea Design; HAMU: Katrina Michelle Styling & Co.; Live Band/DJ: Lavender Fields Band;

If you’re dreaming up your own Carmel Valley Ranch wedding (or something just as heartfelt), I’d love to connect and help you preserve every beautiful, honest moment.

[Reach out here] to say hello — I can’t wait to hear your story.

For More Wedding Inspiration, Check Out Some of My Favorite Weddings:

Murrietas Well Livermore Wedding | Vineyard Charm

The Pearl SF | Jacey and Mitch’s Unforgettable Wedding

Love, Laughter, and Sequenced Hats: Cinnabar Hills Golf Club Wedding