Heather and Mike - Tivoli Too in Laguna Beach, CA

How often do you hear a bride say that she met the man of her dreams in a bar??  Not often, I assure you.  But this wasn't just any guy.  When Mike and Heather were both out with groups of friends in Santa Barbara, CA, he asked her to dance and says he immediately knew she was special.  Fast forward three years, and this beautiful celebration is the result.

Dad and I really enjoyed spending the day with these two - it was well worth the drive Tivoli Too in Laguna Beach, where Heather and Mike held both their ceremony and reception.

While turquoise was the color of the day, Heather threw in a surprising pop of hot pink, which definitely seemed to suit her fun and lighthearted personality.

A first look in the mirror

The bridesmaids were beautifully accessorized - I just love the unique color combo!

These were some fun (and beautiful) ladies.  Nice choices, Heather!

Isn't she pretty?

Woo hoo!  Just Married!

The reception tent at Tivoli Too

Love the menswear on this one - check out the patterns on the tie and vest!

Sweetheart's table

Heather and Mike included a POW table in their reception

The first dance - a regular Fred and Ginger

Entertaining the crowd with the wedding shoe game

Unique favors

Thank you, Heather and Mike, for asking Dad and me to be part of your day.  We had such a great time with you and feel so privileged that you asked us to capture such happy memories.  My wish for you is that all of the joy, love and laughter that surrounded you on your wedding day continue into your married life together!  Congratulations to both of you!

Jenelle & Cory: Refreshingly Green!

Dick and I had a great time with Jenelle and Cory on their engagement shoot in Julian earlier this year (we already knew Jenelle because she works with Dick).  These two are so much fun, and so relaxed.  And the more they told me about their wedding plans, the more excited I was to photograph it.  Jenelle and Cory's celebration was beautiful and truly unique.

The ceremony and reception were both held at The Water Conservation Garden in El Cajon.  Some elements of the day were very traditional (Jenelle's beautiful gown for example) but in other instances, they turned tradition on it's side to do things their way - from a tree planting ceremony to a delicious gourmet food truck dinner - this party was a perfect reflection of who these two are.

Jenelle's gorgeous dress was from the White Flower Boutique.  And I just loved the comfy, yet adorable shoes that she wore, in keeping with the colors of the day.

There were so many thoughtful details, like these hand made cones filled with lavender, a beautiful and creative alternative to bubbles or confetti.  All of these details were fabulously executed by Laura Magid of Hannah Smith Events.

An alternative to a candle or sand ceremony, Jenelle and Cory planted a tree together.

This natural setting was perfect for these two

What a cool combination of locally grown flowers and succulents.

I just love this image of Jenelle and her grandma

We just couldn't get enough photos of Jenelle in all of these beautiful settings.  Lady, you really are so beautiful, inside and out.

Some of the favors and the planted tree on display near the ceremony

Hand-made, and recycled materials adorning the reception area

Another example of the "reuse" in "reduce, recycle, reuse" - using seed packets instead of table cards and numbers means guests can now take these home and use them

Burgers at a wedding reception may be a little out of the ordinary, but don't knock it until you try it!  These burgers, courtesy of Miho Gastrotruck, were outstanding.  And yes, vegetarian options were also offered (you've never had a mushroom burger till you've tried one of theirs!)

Later that evening, guests were treated to desserts and coffee from more trucks: Sweet Treats and Joes on the Nose.  YUM!

This party was guaranteed to please Jenelle and Cory's guests and everyone had a fantastic time.  Once again guys, thank you so much for asking us to help you capture it.  The whole day was so beautiful, and the vibe was friendly and relaxed.  We really had a great time!