Expecting Rylan

Those of you who know me know that I'm a huge fan of my cousin Amy and her artwork. She is without a doubt the most creative person I know and I'm constantly inspired by her. So you can imagine what an honor it was when she asked me to shoot her maternity photos.

As you can see from the images, not only is she extremely artistic, but she's also a classic beauty. And don't even get me started on Waylond. At just three years old he was so well behaved today and he looked great in the photos!

Today's session was more fun than I could possibly put into words. I can hardly wait to take more... when we'll collaborate again for family photos after Rylan is born.

Thank you Amy!

Kumiko & Wisler

On the day after Christmas Dad and I headed up to Orange County to photograph Kumiko and Wisler's wedding. This is one very special couple and we enjoyed every minute of this absolutely gorgeous event. The two decided to have an intimate ceremony, bringing together their two families and just a few friends. The ceremony was held under a gazebo in Laguna Beach and their reception was at the St Regis Monarch Beach in Dana Point, CA.

As you'll see for yourself in the photos below, the connection between Kumiko and Wisler is such a sincere and touching one. Kumiko was absolutely breathtaking in her organza dress while Wisler was the epitome of cool in his tux. All in all, this was a photographer's dream wedding. And the guests were fantastic too! They really made us feel like part of the family.

Thank you Kumiko and Wisler for allowing us to photograph your day. It truly was a pleasure.

Susana & Doug

... are expecting a little angel. We had such a great time on this shoot. I love how playful Doug and Susana are together. It makes me happy to think of a little girl growing up surrounded by this much love and laughter.

While I've only just met the lovely Susana, Doug and I go way back. Since junior high school in fact. As I was taking photos of these two, and seeing what a great husband and father-to-be Doug has become, I felt a great sense of joy. It occurred to me that if, at fourteen, someone were to tell me that when I grew up I'd be taking maternity photos of Doug's wife, I would have smiled. It is moments like these that make me so grateful that I am able to do this now.

Allana & Ryan

Allana and Ryan were married at the Grand Tradition Estate in Fallbrook, CA. The ceremony and reception were gorgeous. The couple, however, was absolutely stunning.

Zoey takes Mom and Dad to the beach

I took a couple snaps of Zoey in February. Now we finally got around to doing some family photos at the beach. This shoot was a team effort. Dad and I shared a camera (don't ask) so our photos were mixed this time. I'm sure all the good ones are mine. *wink*

This cutie really likes walking - watch out Chris and Shannen, she's going to be completely mobile any day now! That is, if she isn't already, since this shoot.

Erika & Alex's unforgettable celebration

We met Erika and Alex through my friend Shirley, who also shoots with Dad from time to time. Erika and Shirley have been best friends since grade school and because of their close friendship, Erika was able to take full advantage of all of Shirley's suggestions and hook-ups with respect to some of our favorite vendors.

These two are so much fun and so obviously in love. Not only that, they really know how to put on a fantastic event! Every detail of their day was carefully thought-out and as you can see from the photos, it all came together beautifully. They were assisted by our good friend and coordinator extraordinaire, Julie Scrivener of The Best Wedding for You.

Erika got ready for the big event at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego.


The multi-talented Shirley also happens to be a trained MAC makeup artist. Erika has the sweetest smile. She's so excited.Erika's bridal party carried flowers by one of my favorite local florists, Natasha of Classic Creations. I loved the fact that each of the bridesmaids carried a different white bouquet.The ceremony was held at the lovely Point Loma Community Presbyterian Church. And again, look at all of those beautiful floral arrangements! They smelled beautiful too.
The kiss. Such sweet smiles!The party stops at Harbor Island for photos on the way to the reception. Dad took most of the shots here but I was able to snap a few. I love the colors that Erika and Alex chose for their attendants - like ocean and sand, perfect for a San Diego wedding.Erika and Alex surprised their attendants with a pre-reception party on the Newport Hornblower... and party they did!
So romantic
The guests, who had been enjoying cocktail hour at the Bali Hai Restaurant, were amazed to see the gang pulling up on a chartered yacht. Talk about 'grand entrance'!A stunning sunset... and a great party, DJ'd by the one and only Mick Scrivener of Elite British DJ. The dance floor was packed to the very end of the evening.