Emily & Evan
To our dear friends and family: Welcome to our wedding weekend in the enchanting Carmel-by-the-Sea.
We selected Carmel as our destination because it has become a sanctuary for us - a peaceful haven where we have embraced moments of reflection, stillness, and presence - all while admiring its quaint, serene, and coastal beauty. We are thrilled to share this intimate experience with you, our closest friends and family.
THE WEDDING
May 24, 2026 | Five O’Clock in the Evening
La Playa Hotel
Camino Real & 8th Avenue
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Formal Attire
Ceremony will take place in the lower courtyard. Arrive at 4:30 for welcome champagne and cocktails.
THE CELEBRATION
To Follow The Wedding
La Playa Hotel
Upper Courtyard and Pacific Terrace
Hors d'oeuvres, Drinks & Dinner
THE SUNSET BEFORE
May 23, 2026 | 5:30-8:30 in the Evening
The Inn at Spanish Bay
2700 17 Mile Drive, Pebble Beach
Join us for drinks and hors d'oeuvres during sunset! This is an outdoor event. There will be fire pits and blankets supplied.
TRAVEL
FLIGHTS
San Jose Mineta Intl Airport or San Francisco Intl Airport
San Jose Mineta Airport (SJC) is ~75 miles and San Francisco Intl Airport (SFO) is ~100 miles from Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are more affordable and direct flight options into SJC or SFO. We recommend car rental for travel to Carmel and if you choose, for exploring the area!
Monterey Airport
Monterey Airport (MRY) is a small, domestic airport under 10 miles from Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are non-stop flights from MSP and options to connect through PHX, SFO, and DFW.
HOTELS
La Playa Hotel
Carmel Beach Hotel
Le Petit Pali
L'Auberge Carmel
Best Western Carmel's Town House Lodge
Normandy Inn
Carmel Cottage Inn
Hilton Garden Inn Monterey
Hyatt Regency Monterey
Airbnb/VRBO
Carmel offers a wide variety of boutique accommodations at different price points. Most of the hotels in Carmel are within short walking distance of the venue, La Playa. The nearby Monterey area offers hotel and lodging options at lower price points. It is a short driving distance to Carmel.
Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea
ACTIVITIES
E-Bikes from Mad Dogs & Englishmen
Rent electric bikes from our favorite (dog-friendly) bike shop in Carmel. Cycle (or use the e-boost, we won't judge) along Carmel's scenic drive for a relaxing ride with fantastic coastal views. Pick up a free map from the library to check out Carmel-by-the-Sea's 21 fairytale cottages (by bike or foot).
Carmel Wine Walk
Take a leisurely stroll around Carmel to explore its many wineries! Follow the instructions here (https://www.carmelcalifornia.com/carmel-by-the-sea-wine-walk/) for discounts at each participating winery.
17-Mile Drive
Drive the scenic loop around the world-renowned Pebble Beach. Make sure you don't miss the Lone Cypress tree! Entry fee is $12, but is reimbursed if you stop for a bite with views of the 18th green at one of our favorite restaurants, the Bench.
Carmel Mission
Take a self-guided tour of the historic Carmel Mission. The beautifully preserved 18th-century Spanish mission offers a rich glimpse into California's history with stunning architecture, serene courtyards, and captivating exhibits.
Monterey Aquarium
Explore the world-class, ocean-front aquarium in Monterey.
Garrapata State Park / Big Sur
Take the short drive (about 15 minutes from La Playa) to Big Sur's northernmost park: Garrapata State Park. There is no admission fee. Drive a few more minutes South to find the iconic Bixby Bridge. Fun fact: Evan and Emily took their engagement pictures at both of these destinations!
Ocean Avenue
Take a stroll in the heart and soul of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Ocean Avenue stretches from the town’s main entrance all the way down to the white sands of Carmel Beach. Find shops, galleries, fine dining restaurants, cozy cafés, and boutique hotels, all housed in storybook-style architecture that gives the town its fairy-tale charm.
Restaurants
Breakfast
Rise & Roam*
Carmel Belle
Carmel Coffee House*
Stationaery
Carmel Bakery
Dutch Door Donuts
Lunch
The Bench at Pebble Beach*
Bruno's Market
Nepenthe Big Sur*
Alvarado Street Brewery
Brophy's Tavern
Dinner
La Bicyclette*
Mission Ranch*
Hogs Breath Inn
Casanova
Jeju Kitchen*
*our favorites
