Seaside Wedding at Seascape Beach Resort: A Foggy Day in Aptos, California

Weddings by the sea have a special kind of magic. The gentle waves and coastal breeze bring a natural elegance to every moment. Even with the fog, Ali and Sam’s wedding at Seacliff Beach Resort in Aptos, California, perfectly exemplifies this timeless coastal beauty. If you want jaw-dropping views, this is the place!

When you plan your wedding day, you want it to be a reflection of who you are as a couple. You can get ideas from Instagram and Pinterest, but ultimately, the more authenticity you put into your wedding experience, the more enjoyable and memorable it will be for the two of you. Ali and Sam aren’t big on fancy affairs. They’re an active, fun-loving couple who appreciate quality time with their friends and family. A small coastal wedding fit them to a T, and I can’t imagine a more beautiful and thoughtful day for them.

Getting Ready Together: A Nontraditional Start

With a twist, Ali and Sam broke tradition with an intimate getting-ready session in a shared suite at Seacliff Beach Resort. It was so sweet to see everyone helping each other, highlighting that weddings are not just about the couple but about the support of loved ones who’ve been there through thick and thin. (If you’re on the fence about it, I say give it a go! It’s a great way to slow things down and savor the day together even more.)

A Fog-Kissed Cliffside Ceremony

An ethereal fog rolled in that morning, wrapping Seacliff Beach Resort in a dreamy atmosphere. The ceremony on the lawn, with serene waters as a backdrop, felt like a scene from a romantic movie. Surrounded by those closest to them, every moment was profoundly personal and heartfelt.

Love Amidst Coastal Cypress Trees

You know I love an adventure, and this small but creative wedding had plenty! After the sea cliff ceremony, we headed into the grove of nearby cypress trees. Despite the fog, Ali and Sam’s smiles lit up every photo. Instead of gloom, the misty weather gave a soft, dreamy light, making each shot look like a scene from a classic film, with the towering trees providing a dramatic, natural frame. The fog also lent a cozy, intimate feel to the family portraits, highlighting the joy and connection in every smile and laugh.

Photographer’s Note: Don’t be afraid of gray skies for a photoshoot! They actually work exceptionally well. Without harsh, direct sunlight, you get a natural, picture-perfect filter. 

Let’s Party! Cocktail Hour Fun

Next up, they went with a casual cocktail hour on the resort’s lawn, complete with delicious food, karaoke, and great conversation. Fun fact: Ali and Sam met at their close-knit MMA gym in Capitola, Allied MMA. (Check it out if you’re in the area!)  Of course, their training teammates came to give their love and support. In fact, I met Ali and Sam on the mats, and I am so honored they asked me to shoot their wedding.  

Backyard Wedding Reception in Santa Cruz

As evening fell, the celebration moved to a quaint backyard in Santa Cruz. The setting was perfect—fairy lights, lots of laughter, and heartfelt toasts. It was a relaxed, joyous end to a perfect day, with close friends and family celebrating the newlyweds.

Adventure, Ambiance, & Amore in Aptos

Ali and Sam’s wedding blended natural beauty, a splash of adventure, and authentic connections. Every detail reflected their love and commitment, from the fog-kissed ceremony to the cozy backyard reception. 

Is Aptos On Your Wedding or Elopement Radar?

Are you and your partner adventure lovers looking for a quiet, scenic wedding venue? Seascape Beach Resort in Aptos, California, might be what you’re after.

Tucked along a quiet, uncrowded beach, this resort offers a peaceful escape. Towering cypress trees give way to a beautiful, natural oceanfront backdrop for your special day.

Seascape Beach Resort is smaller than some of the grander, more luxurious venues. But that’s what makes it special. It’s intimate, personal, and perfect for couples who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of larger, busier locations.

Take a cue from Ali and Sam. They chose to have their ceremony at the resort and then moved their celebration elsewhere. Whether it’s a beachside dinner at your favorite restaurant, a cozy backyard cocktail party, or a downtown reception, you can customize your day to fit your style and preferences. This is YOUR big day—do it your way!

Learn More About Weddings & Events at Seascape Beach Resort

Explore Seascape Weddings & Events Page ➡️

Imagine saying your vows with the sound of waves in the background and then celebrating your love in a setting as adventurous as you are. Seascape Beach Resort offers privacy and a sense of awe, making it a fantastic choice for couples who crave both. (It’s kind of the perfect choice if you’re going back and forth between an elopement or a traditional wedding.)

Seascape Beach Resort and Santa Cruz are unbeatable for a wedding day that mixes coastal charm with small-wedding intimacy. No matter what Mother Nature decides for the day, the seaside setting, majestic cypress trees, cozy backyard vibes will make your day memorable and fun. I would love to help you document it all, from the smallest details to the biggest moments. 

I specialize in Film Photography, Tintypes, Lifestyle Portraiture, Digital Photography, Super 8, and Darkroom prints. If you’re looking for something a little different and creative to capture your wedding day, anniversary, or just-for-fun moments, Llet’s connect! 📸

Unconventional, Creative, & Adventurous Couples This Way ➡️

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