The JOURNAL

They met in teacher training. There was a group of them that went line dancing afterwards and she came and danced and laughed. By then end of the night, he was smitten by her in all the ways a girl dreams about. She was beauty and joy, intelligence and wit, and he couldn’t believe that […]

If you’ve ever had the chance to visit Yosemite National Park, you’ll probably agree that it’s one of the most majestic places on earth. Towering trees and cascading landscapes framed by spectacular monoliths– It’s one of my favorite places to visit, and probably one of the more magical places to have a wedding. For Joel […]

The quintessence of a California wedding draws inspiration from iconic palm tree backdrops, golden sunshine, and laid back beaches. However, any true Californian knows that in between those seemingly flawless days, there are also quite a few cloudy days. So what happens when cloudy weather (gasp!) appears in the forecast for the sunny California wedding […]

“You know, I didn’t realize creating something and sharing with others could make you feel so vulnerable,” he said. The anecdote was acknowledged by my half-paying-attention nod of agreement. He had been sharing about his experience being entrusted with a project that would be shared with a few hundred colleagues. Conversation changed to other topics and the evening […]

There’s something wonderfully intoxicating about getting engaged in the winter. The world looks different covered in snow. Earlier sunsets each day offer a sense of urgency, and every plan must be carefully thought out due to the cold. It’s as if the world conspires in winter to bring people together. The cuddles and huddles, the coats and sweaters, the […]

It finally happened. He got down on one knee and asked me the question I had been waiting my  whole life to hear–“Will you marry me?” As silent fist-pumping crowds of angels cheered and invisible confetti fell from the heavens, I said “yes!” Finally, it was my turn! After the celebrations had come and gone, and the shock […]

Kory and Mikaela’s love story is one that draws deep meaning from their own separate stories of endurance and patience as they waited long and hard to find the love of their life. And like a resounding crescendo after a lifetime of build-up, their wedding day was a full-orchestral celebration. Heartache and waiting was now a memory, and […]

I first met Connie at Billy Jack & Alissa’s Wedding. She was this incredibly sweet bridesmaid who struck me as the type of friend every bride should have…. supportive, excitable, and fun. We hung out all day as I photographed her friend’s event, and at the end of the night she confidently told me I would be photographing […]

They met on their journey through medical school. They weren’t looking to find love just yet since their futures were so uncertain, but somehow it found them. They carpooled together and slowly got to know one another. Their platonic work relationship turned into a friendship and that friendship slowly blossomed into a deep deep love for […]

Wil and Jessica’s Calamigos Ranch wedding was one of my favorite weddings in 2o14. It was a classy and intimate event that went without a hitch, thanks to the wonderful staff and Mindy & Co. Events. My  handsome 2nd shooter Christopher and I arrived at the Four Seasons Westlake Village locked, loaded, and ready for […]