Martin Johnson House

Wedding Day

We are excited to celebrate our wedding at the Martin Johnson House in La Jolla. Nestled along the coastline with sweeping ocean views, this beautiful venue will serve as the backdrop for both our ceremony and reception. As we exchange vows overlooking the Pacific, we look forward to sharing an unforgettable sunset with our family and friends. Following the ceremony, join us for an evening of dinner, dancing, and celebration. The venue's charming cottage setting, outdoor patios, towering cypress trees, and coastal atmosphere create the perfect place to gather and celebrate. We will enjoy great food, an open bar, heartfelt speeches, our first dance, and plenty of fun on the dance floor led by a longtime friend of Ryan's, DJ Ky Guy. Dinner will be served around 7:00 PM, followed by an evening of music, laughter, and memories as we celebrate the beginning of our next chapter together.

Our Wedding

Our Story

“You can spend your whole life unknowingly walking past the person who will change it.” Carissa and Ryan’s story began long before they knew it. Growing up in Canyon Lake, they attended the same elementary, middle, and high schools, shared many of the same friends, and even found themselves at some of the same family gatherings over the years. After high school, they unknowingly continued crossing paths. They attended some of the same parties and festivals and even traveled abroad at the same time. In late 2022, they finally realized they had found exactly what they had been looking for in each other. Shortly after attending their officiant Zack’s wedding, Ryan and Carissa began their own long distance chapter together. They built their relationship between Arizona and California with the certainty that they had finally found home in one another. Their first date took place in Las Vegas, and from there, many long weekends were spent crossing state lines just to be together. By early 2023, Carissa made the move to San Diego, just as she had promised Ryan on the very first night they reconnected. Since then, the two have built a beautiful life together in Ocean Beach, spending their afternoons and weekends soaking up the charm of their beach town. Together, they enjoy relaxing at the beach, skating around the bay, hiking along the coastline, and, of course, catching a beautiful sunset. In 2024, Carissa and Ryan knew it was time to grow their little family and welcomed the perfect new addition, their Goldendoodle, Baxter. He is the happiest dog you will ever meet and enjoys... the exact same things as his parents. After years of unknowingly finding their way back to one another, Ryan proposed to Carissa at Sunset Cliffs in September 2025. With Baxter by their side and their old &amp; new friends gathered from near and far, it was the perfect celebration of everything that had brought them to that moment. Now, they are excited to celebrate the beginning of their next chapter with all of you.

Photo Gallery

The Bridal Party

Sabrina Kielmanowicz - Matron of Honor Tara Nicot - Maid of Honor Alex Harten - Bridesmaid Brooke Gary - Bridesmaid Gabby Barry - Bridesmaid Jessica Gonzalez - Bridesmaid Jessica Jansen - Bridesmaid Lexi Gerdts - Bridesmaid Lucia Bertero - Bridesmaid Sarah Mudd - Bridesmaid Taban Forest - Bridesmaid

The Groom's Party

Matthew Medford - Best Man Zack Hultgrien - Officiant/Groomsman Andrew Corona - Groomsman Casey Williams - Groomsman Daniel Chambers - Groomsman Daniel McDonald - Groomsman Giuliano McDonald - Groomsman Lance Pepin - Groomsman Matthew Waters - Groomsman Pia Desir - Groomswoman Quinton Mckee - Groomsman

Wedding Party

Q + A

For guests driving to the venue, the easiest route is to exit Interstate 5 at La Jolla Parkway, continue onto Torrey Pines Road, turn right onto La Jolla Shores Drive, and then turn left onto Biological Grade, where the venue entrance will be located. Please note that parking at the Martin Johnson House is extremely limited. Due to the small number of available spaces, parking passes will be assigned only to select guests who have been notified in advance. If you have not received a parking pass, we strongly recommend using Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare service. Limited street parking may be available in the surrounding area; however, much of the nearby parking is permit only, which significantly limits the number of available spaces. Most alternative parking options are located a short distance from the venue and may require a longer walk. Availability can vary, and spaces may fill quickly. Our goal is to make arrival and departure as easy and stress free as possible. For the majority of guests, rideshare will be the simplest and most convenient transportation option, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying the celebration.

Travel

COASTAL WALKS & SCENIC VIEWS

There are countless beautiful places to explore along the La Jolla coastline. Some of our favorites include: La Jolla Coast Walk TrailA scenic cliffside path overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This short walk offers incredible ocean views, sea breezes, and opportunities to spot seals, sea lions, and dolphins. Ellen Browning Scripps ParkOne of the most photographed spots in San Diego. Enjoy panoramic ocean views, grassy picnic areas, and easy access to many of La Jolla's most famous attractions. La Jolla CoveA must visit destination known for its crystal clear water, sea lions, and breathtaking coastal scenery. Great for walking, photography, snorkeling, or simply relaxing by the ocean. Sunset CliffsA short drive south of La Jolla. This iconic coastal destination offers dramatic ocean views and one of the best sunset experiences in Southern California.

BEACHES & OCEAN ACTIVITIES

Whether you're looking to relax, swim, surf, or simply enjoy the sunshine, La Jolla has a beach for everyone. La Jolla Shores BeachA wide sandy beach perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and relaxing. One of the most popular beaches in San Diego. Windansea BeachKnown for its beautiful coastline, surf culture, and stunning sunsets. A favorite spot for photographers and beach lovers. Children's Pool BeachOriginally built as a protected swimming area, this beach is now famous for its seal population and unique coastal views. Marine Street BeachA local favorite with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery. Great for beach walks and enjoying the ocean. Kayak the Sea CavesExplore the famous La Jolla sea caves by kayak and experience one of Southern California's most unique coastal adventures.

SHOPPING, DINING & VILLAGE STROLLS

Downtown La Jolla is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, cafés, and restaurants. Prospect Street &amp; Girard AvenueThe heart of La Jolla Village. Enjoy shopping, coffee shops, wine bars, local boutiques, and ocean views throughout the area. La Jolla Open Aire MarketHeld on Sundays with local vendors, fresh food, crafts, and live entertainment. Art Galleries &amp; Local ShopsSpend an afternoon browsing the many galleries, gift shops, jewelry stores, and locally owned businesses throughout the village. Oceanfront DiningLa Jolla offers incredible dining options ranging from casual coastal cafés to upscale restaurants overlooking the Pacific.

HIKING & OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Torrey Pines State Natural ReserveOne of Southern California's most beautiful hiking destinations. Enjoy coastal trails, ocean overlooks, sandstone cliffs, and incredible views of the Pacific. Torrey Pines Beach TrailA scenic hike that descends from the reserve directly to the beach. Mount Soledad MemorialEnjoy one of the best panoramic views in San Diego with breathtaking sights of the coastline, city, and surrounding mountains.

Torrey Pines GliderportWatch paragliders soar above the cliffs or book a tandem flight for a truly unforgettable experience. The views are incredible. The Sunny Jim Sea CaveAccess La Jolla's only sea cave reachable by land through a historic tunnel. Seal &amp; Sea Lion ViewingLa Jolla is famous for its resident seals and sea lions that can be viewed throughout the coastline year round.

Carissa & Ryan

Carissa & Ryan

Photo Gallery