Samin & Matthew: elegance and laughter

As wedding photographers, we're often lucky to be able to capture the genuine connection between two people who don't just love each other, but who really like each other every bit as much.  And sometimes we're fortunate to be able to photograph gorgeous details in beautiful settings.  I'm happy to say that Samin and Matthew treated us to both of these with their elegant day at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park, San Diego.

We started the day with Samin and her bridesmaids at the luxurious Se San Diego Hotel.

Samin inspects the floral arrangements when they arrive at the hotel.

Lady, you are all kinds of fierce!

Next we joined the guys at the Organ Pavillion in Balboa Park to capture Samin and Matthew's "first look" and take some formal photos before the wedding.

I learned after the wedding that Samin's mother actually did the boquets and several of the arrangements.  Truly exquisite work!

Fab-u-lous!

"forever and ever... no take backs!"

Melanie of Something Blue Weddings did a fabulous job of day-of coordination, pulling together all of the meticulously selected details that Samin and Matthew included in their wedding.

You know I'm a sucker for a sweet father daughter relationship.  This was right before Samin's dad walked her down the isle.

Samin and Matthew decided to blend cultures with two wedding ceremonies.  First they made their vows and exchanged rings at the Ceremonial Gate.

Just married!!

Next, the couple and guests walked to the Koi Pond for a traditional Persian ceremony.

And back to the reception in the Ceremonial Plaza.  There were so many thoughtful and fun details that I had a tough time editing down for this post.  In fact, I still posted a lot more images than I typically do.

Check out the adorable cake by Elaine of Sweet Cheeks Bakery.

Samin and Matt invited dance artist Lucia and her companion to entertain the guests at the start of the reception.

I've heard quite a few speeches by fathers of the bride, but this one was particularly entertaining... Samin's face might be an indication.

At the end of a full evening of partying, Samin and Matthew left in a gorgeous Rolls Royce provided by Simply Elegant Limousine.

Samin and Matthew, Dad and I really enjoyed spending the day with you and your loved ones.  From a photographic perspective, your day was filled with such beautiful, fun imagery - it was a treat to be able to capture all of it for you.  But more importantly, the two of you were fantastic to work with.  You're both so light hearted and happy that it really made our jobs fun.  Thank you so much for allowing us to be a part of such a perfect day.

Little Miss Samantha

Many of my friends have kids.  And I like kids.  That said, I also travel a lot, which tends to add shall we say a different color to one's opinion of children... and the effort it takes to keep them entertained while on cross country flights.  Now, in this context, I'd like to introduce you to Samantha.  I had the pleasure of flying with Samantha and her mom (a good friend of mine) from Boston to San Diego.  And before you roll your eyes thinking that my use of the word "pleasure" was sarcastic, I assure you it was not.

On quite a few occasions I have seen those "families with young children" boarding earlier than others, struggling to collapse strollers while juggling bags, bottles and babies as they attempt to squeeze into their seats as quickly and efficiently as possible.  This time, I was with Samantha and her mom in the "families with young children" group, walking behind them as Samantha rode in front in her Baby Bjorn.  And this is when I realized what a unique little girl she is.  I watched as people passed the two of them - a look of distraction or worry or just plain grumpiness would transform into a silly grin as an old man or busy airline attendant caught a glimpse of Samantha smiling back.  You know people with contagious laughs, Samantha has perhaps the most contagious little smile I've ever seen.

As you might have guessed, when my good friend asked if I could take some photos of Samantha I jumped at the opportunity.  Oh, and in case you're wondering, she was great on the flight too.