Let me just say – this wedding day? A DREAM. Surrounded by the beauty only Northern California can bring and SO much love, it couldn’t have gone better. 

You can’t have a perfect wedding without a perfect backdrop, and that’s exactly what this Monterey wedding venue was for Mr. and Mrs. Nobida! The hills stretched on forever, the stone architecture felt straight out of Italy, and every corner had its own kind of magic.

A Super Dreamy Monterey Wedding Venue:

Corral de Tierra Country Club truly is a little hidden gem in Northern California. First off, it’s stunning, and it made the perfect spot for Melanie and Dylan’s big day. Aside from being absolutely BEAUTIFUL, there are so many perks to getting married here. As a photographer, some of my favorite things about Corral de Tierra Country Club are:

It’s easy to put your own spin on it 

Melanie and Dylan had a gorgeous coquette pastel vibe for their big day. Think a calla lily bouquet, parasols, and the cutest color scheme for florals (that were everywhere 😍). Each detail complemented the venue perfectly. And the best part? Any theme or color scheme would look gorgeous here, so it’s a great backdrop no matter your vibe. Bold, colorful florals? Gorgeous against the California mountains in the background. Minimalistic and modern black-and-white vibes? Perfect in the farmhouse-style reception space. 

There are so many lovely spaces

There are so many spaces in the venue that are perfect for different parts of the day. From the time you spend getting ready all the way until your last dance, you’ll be surrounded by beauty and charm. We got first-look photos of the bride and groom at an Italian-esque staircase before their ceremony, which was set up in front of the rolling California mountains. Even the charming farmhouse-style clubhouse made the perfect backdrop for Mr. and Mrs. Nobida’s reception! This Monterey wedding venue is truly a Northern California wedding photographer’s dream. 

It’s easy to work with

When I think of Corral de Tierra Country Club, I think of relaxed luxury. It brings all the luxury of a huge, elegant wedding venue, but with the nicest people and a cozy AF ambiance. The staff helps perfectly tailor the venue to create your dream day, and the venue itself literally just feels like home. 

Melanie & Dylan’s Dreamy Wedding Day: 

Mr. and Mrs. Nobida wanted a timeless and elegant wedding day that was still super fun, and that’s exactly what they got. Every part of it, from the pastel florals to the crazy dance party celebration, was so them. My kinda people. 

Melanie and Dylan found me because they were on the hunt for a dope Bay Area wedding photographer, and when they came across my Instagram page, sparks flew. They said they felt like we could be friends immediately, and spoiler alert: they were right. They wanted their photos to encapsulate the raw, candid beauty of their day, and they noticed that I specialize in that. The results? Their personalities literally shining through SO brightly in their photos. You can easily see how fun-loving they are and how excited they are to love each other!

The day wouldn’t have been so perfect if it weren’t for the amazing vendors I was working alongside, listed here: 

Venue: Corral de Tierra Country Club

Super 8 + Content Creator: The Content Bestie

Florist: Blooms and Twiggs

Dress: Casablanca Bridal

Bridesmaid Dress: Birdy Grey

Tuxedo: Generation Tux 

More Tips for Getting Married at Corral de Tierra Country Club: 

Embrace the weather

As a Northern California wedding photographer, I’ve seen it all. From rain to shine, you’ve gotta be prepared for the curveballs the California weather can throw on your big day! This location is very likely to get windy, so keep that in mind as well. Remember, the whole point of your wedding day? Celebrating your love. Everything else will fall into place! 

Lighting can be tricky for photos in certain areas

Since the venue is pretty spread out, lighting can definitely be a little tricky. Cloudy days are actually a win here because the light stays nice and even. On sunny days, though, it’s super important to plan your timeline with light and location in mind. We didn’t get a sunset moment on Alexa and Robert’s wedding day thanks to the weather, but we’re already planning a day to go back. A slower pace, a little extra glam, and another chance to soak it all in together, it’s going to be such a sweet session.

Grace Thao | Monterey Wedding Photographer

If you’re looking for a fun-loving editorial photographer for your Monterey wedding that will celebrate you and party with you (especially if it’s at Corral de Tierra), I’m your girl! I hope this gorgeous California wedding day gave you all the inspo for a pastel wedding. Browse my site for more gorgeous wedding inspiration, no matter if you’re looking for an intimate coastal wedding or a Yosemite elopement. Ready to book? Click here to inquire! Can’t wait to become best friends.