Courtney and Jeremy were married on the film stage of Pasadena’s Art Center College of Design, where Courtney works. The black and white backdrop was a refreshing source of inspiration for me, and equally challenging. It was the first wedding where I had to light nearly every shot, but I took the opportunity and ran with it. They were such a laid back, photogenic couple who were game to go anywhere on campus with me and trusted my vision completely. In lieu of a traditional bridal party they said their vows standing next to their siblings, who provided a supportive and loving energy. This evening wedding was finished off with a chocolate fountain, dessert buffet, and loads of dancing. I feel honored to have made so many great pictures with them.

A million thanks to my best friend Aurora Lady, who occasionally moonlights as my assistant, for carrying my gear and keeping the portraits fun and stress free! I couldn’t have done it without her.

Congrats Courtney + Jeremy!

The second I stepped off the plane in Maui, I told my friend James that I planned to use the word “mauied” instead of “married” as much as possible each day of my trip until all my friends disowned me. I only had to say it once and the big, wide grin plastered on his face from seeing me for the first time in almost a year quickly went to a very disappointed scowl. Of course, the incredibly cheesy line stuck throughout the whole trip and became an inside joke James wishes he hadn’t encouraged. He may have even regretted inviting me because of it… just a little. Either for that or because I called him and all his other Kiwi friends “kangaroos” a lot (it turns out that they HATE that!).

A little backstory: I met Erin and James during my last year of living in Alaska — the three of us were roommates and co-workers while being tour guides last summer. New Zealand born James moved to Maui several years ago because his friend told him it would “change his life,” and it did. And not just because that’s where he met Erin, a Wisconsin transplant. They were so in love that James convinced Erin to move to Colorado for the experience, even after she swore she’d never put up with snow again. Alaska was last on their list of life experiences to check off before finally settling back down in Maui, their true home, and a perfect setting for their low-key, super fun backyard beachfront wedding. But it wasn’t all casual, because Erin, a smokin’ hot windsurfer and biology nerd (but in a cool way) wore makeup in front of her husband-to-be for the FIRST TIME EVER (and she looked great with it!). James got drunk and appreciated said makeup afterwards, I’m sure. The reception came equipped with a fancily-lit pool, complete with a waterfall, a teppenyaki chef (!!!) and a giant tub of beer. The pool was such a hit that a completely soaked James proudly stated halfway through the night, “I love my wedding! Can we have it again tomorrow?”

And I totally wish we could. Congratulations James and Erin!

As you will see, my obsession with cowboy boots and antlers was not lost on Laura and Robert’s country wedding. The setting perfectly complimented the happy couple’s personality, both of whom have a great sense of humor and could line dance me under a table! As I edited through these photos for the blog, I could honestly feel their chemistry jump right off the photos. Seriously, they could not be more in love.

A big thanks to Dani Mac for inviting me to second shoot with her once again – check out all the images and Dani’s super amazing portraits on her blog!