minimoonstruck

As our wedding approached, I admit I was kicking myself a little for not taking our two-week trip to Spain immediately after the wedding like the rest of the newlywed world. Let me be the first to tell you, my kicking was for naught. Our three-night minimoon in Cape May, N.J. was absolutely fairytale perfection and I would do it again in a heartbeat (we almost stayed an extra night we loved it so much!). I’ll share with you a few posts about our different adventures and excursions, but first up, an overview of why I am now in love with this little Victorian seashore town.

We managed to find the one modern, un-Victorian-style b&b in all of Cape May, and we’re ready to move in. Teal bedroom walls, breathtaking ocean views, a private balcony, a DIY seashell fireplace and an ocean lullaby each night. Our innkeeper Liza was a Swedish sweetheart who put her heart and soul into our adorable abode, and she knows just what makes a proper beach house: octopus light fixtures, sea glass mirrors, antique white vanities, pink walls and seashells everywhere! 931 Beach Guest House is a little slice of heaven.

Cliché you say? I assure you, or morning walks along the shoreline were anything but. Dozens of dolphins greeted us each morning as we searched for shells and sea glass and enjoyed the peaceful, quiet beach. It’s not quite high season down the shore so we were spoiled with private beach access most of the time.

When you say Jersey shore I say dunes, cottages and yards of stone. Cape May defied every golden seashore rule and owned it. The homes were out of this century, literally, the yards were in bloom and every street had its own Victorian charm. It was quaint, colorful and picturesque.

it’s a sign! 

this bottom photo was taken from our balcony. we pretended these were tornadoes over the ocean along the horizon.

Our wedding theme was all about vintage, romantic and mis-matched simplicity. What we ended up with … was wind, and it lasted through the minimoon. While it stole some key elements from our wedding day, we refused to let it damper our getaway. In the end, it was a good thing, because it forced us off the beach and out into the town to explore. We spent a lot of time walking, reading, sleeping and, of course, eating all the seafood we could find.

caught getting ready for a dinner date.

See, I told you our guest room was gorgeous! We had a couch, kitchenette, full bath, vintage white vanity, table for two, a seashell fireplace, a big ol’ bed and a bay window/door with ocean views and private deck access.

every time I catch a glimpse of my new husband’s finger bling it takes my breath away. i just can’t believe it.

so peaceful

lonely lifeguard stand on a windy day

Now this I loved. Our thoughtful innkeeper set out paints, brushes and shells/rocks for her guests to leave a little memory behind. I can’t wait to go back and visit our rock in Liza’s front yard … on our first anniversary perhaps?!