groom looks at bride as the two get married in the middle of a forest near camp yeager in cambria, ca, photographed by san luis obispo wedding photographer poppy and vine

Getting married in California amidst COVID is no easy task, let me tell you!

However, Emily and Andrew weren’t interested in waiting for this crazy season to be over to get married, so they took on the challenge of planning the most covid-friendly wedding that they could (and they did an incredible job!!!). These two found Camp Yeager, a literal summer campground, in Cambria, California, and set out on transforming it into the most beautiful, rustic, forest-esque setting for their wedding.

The sprawling campground was perfect for social distancing. These two created an amphitheater sort of setup for their ceremony so they could literally be surrounded by all the people who were most important to them. The space was converted into a rustic outdoor reception space afterward, with all kinds of fun, summer camp style activities like cornhole and a firepit for s’mores. Behind the seamless coordination was the wonderful Katie McGuire, who made sure everything went down without a hitch!

Emily and Andrew’s stunning ceremony took place as the late afternoon sun warmed up coastal Cambria. The two exchanged personal vows that recounted the wild year the two had, literally getting together and navigating relationship during the pandemic. Andrew’s father officiated the ceremony for a sweet personal touch, and Emily’s niece and nephew were the flower girl and ring bearer.

As the warm afternoon turned into evening, the moonlight was joined by crackling fire and all kinds of string lights, providing the most dreamy ambiance at good ol’ Camp Yeager. Boni’s Tacos served the most delicious wedding food we’ve ever had (no, we’re not lying, Joseph literally went back for thirds). Emily and Andrew’s siblings, parents, and best friends gave touching toasts as they reminisced on the years of goofy memories and proud moments.

The newlyweds shared their first dance before Andrew danced with his mom. Emily’s father, who passed a few years back, was honored with a slideshow in his memory. Have we ever cried more on a single day in our lives? I really don’t think so.

Emily and Andrew’s Camp Yeager wedding was FULL of personal touches, little references to special moments throughout their lives, and gave so much glory to God and the beautiful story He’s been writing for these two since the beginning. Keep scrolling to see some of our favorite photos we’ve ever taken (and one of the best couples we’ve ever had the honor of photographing)!!!!