I remember as a teenager taking the two hour ride to Montauk for no particular reason other then to see a certain stretch of road. It was old Montauk Highway. The drive is lined with high hedges, summer homes, the infamous Gurney’s Inn, and hidden peeks of the most spectacular ocean views.

 I would take that road back and forth a few times in a row just to catch a glimpse. It’s a view where the lush landscape slopes down and you can see beautiful cliffs greeting an azure blue ocean and sky. It was what I imagined Hawaii or the California coast to look like and it was right here in my own ‘backyard.’

It’s funny, I always took that view for face value. I appreciated it from my car as I drove by and never really thought the view could get better.  Little did I know.

***

There are some places that just kiss your soul. It leaves an impression on you from the moment you set eyes on it. One of those places for me is Montauk. I love the charm, the ocean, the air, the light, the main street shops and the hustle and bustle of beach life.

If you have been to Montauk yourself restaurants like; Harvest on Fort Pond, Lobster Roll or Gosman’s might conjure up some pretty great memories.

For Ali, Montauk was where she spent her childhood vacationing at her grandparents place exploring, as kids do, some of the most wonderful hidden spots along the coast. She actually had a front row seat to that view I use to see afar.

It’s where the land, sea and the sky melt together and it feels a little bit like heaven on earth. It’s no wonder that is where Tommy would propose.

Locations, like some people,  leave an impression with you long after you leave. Montauk is my kind of place, and Ali and Tommy are my kind of people.

 

 Sea, sand, salt and sky…

   

I like that the birds dropped in for a quick visit…

     

 The paths were super narrow which made taking the pictures a bit tricky…but it added to the adventure!

     

Some hazy sun to go with the beachy feel…

     

The light is extra special on the east end. Golden, dreamy and a bit diffused…

   

As we drove down the road together, one of the street signs was Hopkins (Tommy’s last name). We had to stop for a quick pic.

   

And then I took them to one of my favorite places…

*Swoon*

   

Split rail fence and all…

       

I know!!!!

     

A random spot…

   

my favorite…

     

  The most fabulous rustic, weathered siding ever…oooh yeah, and a pretty dang hot couple to boot…

         

Our final destination was Gosman’s, in hope of catching the sunset. We literally had three minutes before it disappeared beneath the horizon. We ran across the parking lot, not even having time to get to the beach. They were literally at the curb and I was in the street to take the shot, but we made it.

This was the last photograph of the night.

   

Ali and Tommy, you guys are awesome. I have enjoyed every single conversation with you both and spending that evening with you was just  icing on the cake for me. Thanks for sharing such a special place with me. You guys certainly know how to leave a lasting impression!

Super excited for the BIG day at Land’s End…

 

****After I posted this blog, Ali contacted me. She told me that a while back her family had planted a tree in Montauk for her grandfather, with a plaque that read… ‘ Dad’s little bit of heaven on earth.’

Completely unbeknownst to me.

*chills*

P.S

Before you go, leave your thoughts below.

20 comments = complimentary gift for the couple

P.P.S

Thanks for the mail A+T! ; )