I don’t have favorites …

I keep telling myself this over and over …

On Saturday, June 19th it was my privilege and honor to be Camille and Michael’s photographer. Don’t get me wrong, I work hard at marketing myself and putting my best foot forward so when I say I’m surprised to be someone’s photographer, I actually feel lucky. But I don’t believe in luck so maybe I should say I’m amazed I have this opportunity. No, I’m blessed – that’s it. Honored, blessed, fortunate, privileged … yea that sort of covers it.

Judith of the Dana Powers House has this incredible venue in Nipomo. She keeps the gardens immaculate and has this inspiring rustic barn. Camille & Mike chose the barn but we enjoyed the gardens for some great images as well. Judith is hands on which I really appreciate. The gardens & barn demonstrate her attention and love for details … which seem to have an endless supply. Wherever you look, there is something wonderful to see and shoot.

At one end of the barn is the bride’s getting ready room. It’s full of great light but Camille was radiant even before she “put on her face”. Now I’ve seen a whole lotta dresses. Camille’s was so classy and different. You could see her legs and amazing shoes. Maybe it was her shoes and amazing legs … Anyway, to not shoot her in black and white would have been a crime. You’ll see. And did I mention the hand made bouquet? Yea, check that out below.

The longer I work in this industry the more opportunities that come my way. It’s a charmed life really. Camille and Mike made my day so memorable (and they paid me to be there!) – I need to pinch myself. Thank you for choosing me to be your photographer … I can’t wait for your next “big” event whatever that may be.

It’s fun, it’s exhausting … and I’m humbled every time.

and of course the whole show …

Wow, what a weekend and what a week. I love what I do and sometimes what I do gves me a work out. It’s a true honor and labor of love to work with such great brides and grooms. This has been an extraordinarily busy one and I’ve enjoyed every moment of it. Can’t wait for the week coming up and the rest of the season.

It was my great pleasure and a ton of fun to photograph Lisa and Aaron’s big day. The rehearsal Friday afternoon was stunning with blue skies. In spite of the crowd factor on Avila Beach, I knew the next day was going to be incredible. You can imagine my concern Saturday morning. The blue skies were gone and this heavy cloud cover was everywhere – rain was threatening. Fortunately, the rain held off but the windchill was challenging for Lisa. That girl was freezing but her spirit was on fire! I was impressed.

Her wedding was amazing for so many very special reasons. The girl has some major connections when it comes to talented people. This was a DIY wedding with amazing style and lot’s of heart string pulling. I’m going to just give the slideshow below for now. When all the details are compiled, I’ll give it a write up on all the crazy cool stuff that made this wedding unique. The details are worth waiting for … trust me.

How do I NOT show this large?????

There is nothing like being there at just the right time!

Here is the show

I know I say it all the time but its true. I love my brides …
Jessica was such a great “client”. Easy going, fun, relaxed and completely radiant. James was a trooper and man, what a dancer. He seriously can cut some rug. I think he got his skills from his mum.
What I like about these two is there undercover romantic side. Look at this image. It’s one of my faves and you’ll see what I mean:

And then there’s this obvious, public side that is well known ….

It’s fun to watch couples “get ready”. The guys typically are less “enthusiastic” about the event than the gals. Such was the case for these gentlemen. Don’t get me wrong, they were fun but nerves were definately part of the atmosphere!

The gals were less nervouse and more gitty. Tears were held back and there was lot’s of laughter and discussions about “blessings”. I know how comfy I felt being around these beautiful girls and how fortunate I was to be “blessed” by them.

I have lived in Templeton for over a decade and never ever stepped foot in the Presbyterian Chruch across the street from my office. On reflection, I have only done maybe a handful of “church weddings” so it was a real treat to have this opportunity ~ right in my own backyard!

Then there’s the fun!

And the details that make this day THE day …

Can you say “take it easy chakeezy”. That’s what we say in our family when you are supposed to calm down.

I met Pearlie for the very first time an hour before shooting her “getting ready” shots. She said, “thanks for being on time”. I thought, “the bride is puttin’ round the reception venue in her jeans and a sweatshirt. Doesn’t she know she’s supposed to be all frantic and worrying”. Guess not.
Pearlie was the least demanding of all my brides to date. Not that any of them have been demanding. Don’t get me wrong, my brides are the best. But Pearlie didn’t come with a list or any obvious expectations. “Just take pictures” … I mean this woman was left at the ceremony waiting for the limo for what seemd like about 30 – 45 minutes. And she just hung out. Now Koehler vineyards is a gorgeous place to just hang out … but hey, people, we got a reception to attend.

There is something about a dude in a uniform. To me, it’s about honor and dignity, courage and reputation. Steve was all that for sure and I liked him from the start. I’m so proud of our service men and women and Steve is a great example of what is right about our military. But they met at a dance club so yea, they also know how to have a good time … in a dignified way of course. They come from two completely different worlds but fit so well together you’d never know it. I was surprised to learn Pearlie had no military connection at all. Her laid back attitude will serve their “lifestyle” well.

I hate leaving a wedding … I know my “time” is up but I love my job. So, yep, I stayed longer than I should but I was not disapointed. The crew at Hotel Corque in Solvang were amazing. The buffet was “unbelievably good” (hey I should know, I test a lot of wedding food gang) and Brad of Audio Paradise kept the party going. I admire a DJ who makes the show all about the bride and groom. Brad you are cool beans dude! My time with this awesome couple had to end and I packed up my gear and left. On my way out I received a text from a potential bride wanting to get hitched in the same town. Maybe I should just move here. Nah, but it is tempting. All the best to Pearlie and Steve. Your service to our country is greatly appreciated.

This image of Pearlie sums up her day!