If you are a couple planning to have a small Carmel Hyatt Wedding in 2025 and 2026, here is some wedding day inspiration for you! Full disclosure, this is a styled wedding editorial created and hosted by local vendors. We wanted to create a styled-elopement for a guest count up to 30 people to showcase that having an intimate ceremony and reception here could be perfect for couples who want a smaller wedding. This guide will help you with the look and feel of a wedding at Carmel Highlands. With a ceremony set-up, reception table, florals, and different locations on site for portraits.
About Carmel Highlands
The Hyatt was built in the early 1900’s, just right off Highway 1- when you travel south, its tucked away just to the left, up a hill. It’s in the perfect spot if you want to be close to Carmel, but still need some quiet time/ privacy away from all the noise. The dining on site is delicious (Chef Alex is a true talent with food). You can relax by the pool, and enjoy the views of the Pacific from most of the hotel locations. Plus, you are a short drive away from Point Lobos and the beaches if you want an outdoor adventure day.
There are many reasons why I love(d) photographing a wedding here. It’s secluded, so quiet and romantic. Only a 15 minute drive from the airport (making it easy for outside travelers coming in). There are hotel rooms for guests to book on site. The food is incredible, the views are incomparable vs most venues in Carmel. Plus, there is just something about the space- with perfect spots for photography (more on that later).
Carmel Hyatt Wedding
If you are having a wedding at Carmel Hyatt, you have a few options when it comes to guests and how you want to plan your ceremony/wedding. For example, you can have up to 30 guests if you want a reception on site. If you want to have a large reception, the ceremony space can hold up to 130 people (but you have to have a reception off site or have your reception in the oceanside ballroom). Here is where you would have your ceremony- then Gazebo Deck. It over looks the Pacific Coast off of Highway 1, with a view so pretty, especially during sunset.
Our inspiration for the ceremony was to have flowers on the ground, so we can keep the view- perfect for enjoying backdrop and for photos). We laid out 12 chairs (but could easily fit way more), and kept this space close and personal. For any real wedding, you could avoid using a mic-stand, and all your guests will be able to hear the vows.
Reception Space
The vendor team and I wanted to turn the ceremony space into the reception area, to showcase what an outdoor reception could look like. The weather for this day was sunny and warm. So, it was the perfect day to have both outside. The surf room was used for us to get ready, store our things, and where our bride could change into her second dress.
Our Reception set up was made for an intimate setting of 14 people, including the bride and groom. We set up the table in the middle of the gazebo patio, so there would be room for walking, socializing, and if there was a real wedding, a great spot for guests to take photos at sunset. The tones of the linen, plates, and chairs were kept neutral. But our napkins were giving a soft floral blue pattern over ivery. The centerpieces were flower bouquets with luscious greens, pinks, and soft oranges to give a romantic feel.
Favorite Portrait Spots
When you have a wedding here at Highlands, most of the spots on site are open to use. There is just a friendly reminder that out-of-town guests are also staying here. So, please respect their privacy. There are several locations on site that are great spots to photograph couples/wedding party/ and family moments. Something I encourage all couples to do. There are three areas that I love to photograph in- to really show the story of the day of where you got married.
First, is just around the corner from the gazebo patio. Where you can get in a sneak of some lodging and the hills.
The second is about a 3 minute walk away from the main building/where the wedding is. This gives you a more intimate feel and is perfect when the sun hits just right.
Lastly (not least), we have the gazebo patio itself. Of course, you need a spot to show off the amazing view, and get some solo shots. While the reception table sets up, and guests enjoy cocktail hour elsewhere, you can even get some private photos with the reception table!
Carmel Hyatt Wedding
For those who did not book the carmel (yet) and would like information, here is what I have for you!
- Address: 120 Highlands Dr, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, United States
- Phone: 1 831-620-1234
- Wedding Information: Hyatt Wedding Info
- Capacity: Wedding Ceremony + Reception (up to 30 guests). Wedding Ceremony but reception at oceanside ballroom or elsewhere (up to 140 guests)]
- To view a list of their rates and inclusions, CLICK HERE
The Vendors
The vendors who created this Carmel Hyatt Wedding Editorial had a main purpose of being creative and sharing inspiration for any future couples wanting to have a wedding here or have already planned their wedding and want ideas. Together, we donated our time and services to create a gallery, and work as a team to make something fun and creative. Be sure to give them a follow or/and check out their work.
Venue: Carmel Hyatt Highlands
Photographer: Destinations With Dana
Hair and Makeup: Glamology
Flowers: Love and Flowers by Angie
Rentals: Chic Events
Stationary: Heart Paper Soul
Dresses/Suit: Epiphany (Martina Liana, and Justin Alexander)
