She was a La Jolla, California transplant, by way of Canada. Ali left for college in the United States on a full-ride golf scholarship, and later decided to pursue her doctoral studies in Southern California. With her heart set on ocean views, Ali settled for a home just a few blocks from the water and set out to make friends. But, how? She stared out her front door at Bird Rock Surf Shop, walked across the street, and inquired about taking surf lessons.

Ben looked up as a beautiful girl walked into his store. She smiled and asked if she could enroll for surf lessons. Surf lessons, right. Sure, he replied. In the history of Ben owning Bird Rock Surf, he'd never given lessons…they weren't even offered. But one look at Ali and Ben opted to make a new set of offerings just for her.

They chatted in the Pacific Ocean and Ben made sure Ali rode the waves like a local. They hung out together that evening with friends and the following night went on a date together…only to be followed by many more dates and years of love. Ben and Ali will wed in October at Pelican Hill Resort and I have no doubt amazing things are in store!

I had the pleasure of meeting Ali and Ben in their hometown of La Jolla, and spent the day enjoy the sun, the ocean, and the love they share together.

Many thanks to Jeannie Savage of Details, Details for referring such an amazing couple my way…I love the creative team she put together for what should be a perfect wedding day!

We, of course, had to capture engagement photos by the beach because it's so much of who they are and a integral piece of their love story…

This was the same beach where Ben proposed to Alix, so now they can say it's special for more than one event in their lives…

Happy Friday!