Just based on the location, weather, and how amazing Sofia and David were to work with, I was already in love with their wedding. But as I was looking for interesting angles during the ceremony, Sofia and David started to share some of the most unique and entertaining vows I've ever heard. At that moment I wished I was a cinematographer, but I will simply add that they are incredibly creative, wonderful storytellers, and humble intellectuals. Their ceremony was not only officiated by a captivating close friend, but there was also a Mariachi Band, and surprise musical performances by several of their friends. Although their wedding was at the very elegant Coral Gables Country Club, they sought to utilize the natural scenery of the space, and seamlessly integrated tropical florals compliments to Ines Naftali. I'm pretty certain that if Sofia and David didn't live in NYC, our shared affinity for whisky would definitely bring us together (among many other things). Special thank you to Erika Delgado for being one of the most helpful and amazing second shooters ever!For more images, and more on their story, please see their feature in Style Me Pretty Florida!
Pacific Northwest
For the next seven days, I head to one my favorite regions in the country, the Pacific Northwest. Last September I flew in to Seattle to visit Mt. Rainier, and backpack through Olympic National Park. However, on this trip, I fly in to Portland (a city I already know I'll love), then head straight for the Columbia River Gorge. Based on the images I've seen, the stretch of wilderness along the Columbia River is home to some of the most lush and beautiful waterfalls in the world. After several days in Oregon and an awesome portrait session, I'll then head to the beautiful old growth forests of Redwood National Park, where I'll meet an old friend who just so happens to be a park ranger there. Needless to say, I could not have a better guide for the few days I'll spend among the tallest trees in the world.
"The idea of wilderness needs no defense. Only more defenders" - Edward Abbey
Aviation Wedding Inspiration
It's long overdue, but I'm so excited to share these images from an amazing inspiration shoot with an unbelievable cast of vendors. You really can't go wrong with old school airplanes, a runway, and a hangar, but I definitely have an affinity for the amazing bar and the cohesiveness of the theme! A special shout out to Laura Helm with Ashton Events for the amazing concept and design, I can't wait to work with you this coming October! And of course Lauren with Every Last Detail, for the feature! And of course, I absolutely must thank the amazing models, Jackie and Ryan, who were clients of mine about a year before this shoot!For the amazing back story, Kate Spade inspiration, and more images, please check out the feature on Every Last Detail!
Planning + Design :: Ashton EventsCinematography :: Indie AtlanticFloral + Decor :: Botanica International Design and Decor StudioReception Venue :: Florida Air Museum/Sun N' FunCake Baker :: SweetCakesHair + Makeup :: Michele Renee Hair + MakeupBridal Boutique :: Malindy Elene - Bride's Dress :: Badgely MischkaRentals :: Signature Event RentalsVintage Letters :: Paper Street MarketLinens :: Connie Duglin Linens
Malindy Elene :: Couture for the Bride
When Megan, with Malindy Elene asked me if I could photograph a series of dresses and models for a look book she's creating, I responded emphatically yes. What I didn't expect was just how beautiful the dresses and models would be, and how incredibly streamlined and efficient the entire shoot would be. If Megan wasn't doing big things with Malindy Elene, I have a feeling she'd be a very successful coordinator. The amazing hair and makeup was done by Michele Renee and her staff, and the florals were by FH Weddings. There are so many other gorgeous dresses that I didn't get to post, but which is your favorite gown? I have a feeling many will say the first one, the Reem Acra ball gown, with a beaded illusion neckline and tulle skirt. Yes, being in the industry has taught me more about wedding dresses than 99% of guys would know, but I also had help from Megan on that one! Leave some love!
Dream Venue :: Swan House
Just over a month ago, I spent a long weekend in Atlanta for a gorgeous wedding weekend. Spring had seemingly past in Florida, but was in full swing in northern Georgia. In my free time before and after the wedding, I wanted to seek out some of the most amazing places/venues near midtown. For years now, I've seen blog features and several magazines featuring the Swan House, and I was totally in love. If you know me, you know my affinity for The Secret Garden, and this estate and garden may be the closest I've ever felt to Europe. This place is so beautiful, it will make a brief appearance in the newest Hunger Games movie. It will of course be a part of the "Capitol"... The venue from my wedding that weekend was also used in the movie... As a backdrop for District 12. Up next, a blog post from the Atlanta Botanical Gardens!
Emily + David :: Lange Farm Wedding
How can you not love a seersucker suit, a gorgeous lace dress, and the open spaces of the Lange Farm? I hope these few images are a small glimpse of the love-filled moments, and gorgeous light throughout Emily and David's wedding day. All the family and friends were so sweet and southern, none sweeter than the bride and groom. Their dinner menu and pie table fit their day perfectly. I won't soon forget the shrimp and grits from Good Food Catering or the pies from Wright's Gourmet House!
Kimberly + Michael :: Bayshore Engagement Session
Some days, my job might look easy... This was one of those days. Kimberly and Michael are such a wonderful couple and have the cutest 1 year old Golden Retriever. Like his owners, he is very photogenic. For a couple that grew up in South Tampa, and are getting married at the Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club, Bayshore was the perfect engagement session location. It rained just before we started, and the rain threatened for the last hour... But instead, we were graced by the most gorgeous soft light that just sings when photographed with film. I wish May 2014 would come sooner! I can't wait to work with Sarah with One Fine Day for this one!
Sarah + Joe :: Bella Collina Wedding
Even if Sarah and Joe weren't incredibly photogenic... And didn't have one of the most amazing backdrops a photographer could as for, I would still have fell absolutely in love with their wedding. From the moment I arrived, there was so much emotion, happiness, and love. The first touch, Sarah surprising Joe with a special guest (Tyson their 9 year old lab), the dances, and the toasts were just a few of my favorite moments. Even though this was a rather long blog post, I assure you that there so may more where these came from. It was a distinct pleasure working with Maria from Blush by Brandee Gaer for the first time, who stopped at nothing to make sure this gorgeous wedding at Bella Collina went smoothly. Soundwave Entertainment provided the music and the gorgeous uplighting. I have to also give a shout it to Elise's Pieces, who was not only a bridesmaid, but also made the gorgeous cake!Also, check out their amazing Engagement Session, which was also shot at Bella Collina. Can't get enough of that place!For more images, please check out the feature on Style Me Pretty Florida
Earth Day 2013
“Everybody needs beauty...places to play in and pray in where nature may heal and cheer and give strength to the body and soul alike.”- John Muir
