I’m loving the vineyards as they turn dark at the seasons end. Couldn’t ask for a better landscape for folks in love. Ah … love is in the air.
Lisa and Aaron are from “down south” so their Avila wedding will be a destination affair. These two have quite a fire burning between them. It’s hard not to notice their connection. After some brief tasting at one of my favorite tasting rooms, we enjoyed the warm afternoon in the bright sunshine. I love Avila and look forward to the awesome opportunities that await us. Surf, sun and sand gotta make sure I bring my sunscreen.

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!

Every wedding is unique. But they do have a common thread … THAT schedule. It ticks away at everything, the getting ready shots, the couple shots. It makes us photographers a unique breed. We must keep up with the action and in some way make it look the opposite. Like everything went at a romantic cruze. And not make anyone late to the reception!
Sure, Rosanna is beautiful, stunning, gorgeous … but man, can this woman keep to a schedule. She made my job so easy. How can it be that someone can be good at making schedules and yet be flexible. That’s my gal Rosanna. She does it with style. Bobby and his groomsmen were such studs. Or they were just really nervous … hard to tell. Either way they made some great images and at the reception made us laugh and cry. How can anyone not like a wedding. What can I say, I get attached to these couples. Rosanna and Bobby, thank you, thank you, thank you for allowing me into your wonderful lives.

How do we not pick favorites?
Judy & Kris are one of those couples who have an “underground” kind of flame. Oh, don’t misundestand me, they are passionate about each other, they just don’t show it off. You have to watch them – closely.
Lucky me. I get to chase them around all day hiding behind my camera. After a while, they forgot about me and just were themselves with each other. Really beautiful people. I would love for you to view their day. Here is the show.
The Country Club in San Luis Obispo is a spectacular venue. I can’t imagine the place being “in need” of business so if you have a chance to clintch a date with them, don’t hesitate. They handled everything and the staff were very helpful. Just don’t wear heels on the greens! Or set up your ladder.
I had the pleasure of meeting and dining with Paul Thompson of Escape Entertainment. Paul is a killer DJ. He came prepared and was one of the most professional professionals I’ve worked with. If you want someone who can have multiple set ups in multiple locations, Paul is your man. With top notch gear and an “easy to work with” attitude, Paul can be a great addition to your next event.
August 8th was a tough day. For some unknown reason I just had a hard time getting into gear. That all changed once the wedding party arrived. Judy and her bridesmaids were so fun and Judy was just amazing. Having a gorgeous dress doesn’t hurt. But Judy was truly glamorous and saying Judy was statuesque misses the mark by about a … foot! I forgot that she is 6′ tall.
We had a great event and the multicultural aspect made it all that much more special. A huge thanks to Judy’s cousin Allan who made the formals easy AND fun! Kris & Judy’s good pal Joe performed a very personal and well crafted ceremony. It was more than just words. It was inspiring.
Congratulations you guys!