I can’t think of a sneak peek that I’ve been more excited to post this year than Marisa and John’s. We had such a good time photographing their fun wedding at Pendarvis Farm. The whole day seemed to come in happy waves: the low key getting-ready wave, the hot and sweaty portraits wave (John and I hot and sweaty as we fruitlessly cast about for open, even shade), then the tender and sweet wedding wave (with a tradition I’ve not witnessed before, more on that in a minute), and then as dusk fell, truly the best after-wedding-party. Ever.
Ok, here was something really neat about their wedding ceremony. Instead of the officiant conducting the entire ceremony, John and Marisa’s friends one by one shared stories or observations about the couple. About their relationship. Or about the funny or kind or wonderful things they’ve done with and for each other. Or the sweet ways that John loves Marisa or that Marisa loves John. While an officiant can conduct a meaningful wonderful ceremony, wouldn’t it be fantastic to be married by the kind words and blessings of those who know you best and love you most? Makes me wish I could have a wedding re-do just so that I could have a ceremony just like theirs.
Here are a few of our favorite photos from the day. It was hard to edit down to this hundred or so. I didn’t get to put in all of the horses. Or the adorable kitten by the barn. But, hey, it’s a wedding, right? My favorite of the day: your perfect dance posture struck amidst a sunset vineyard. Only you two could pull that off. Congrats to you both. You two are the bomb.
See the slide show here.
click here for all of John and Marisa’s wedding day pics.
When I asked John just now what he found most memorable about photographing Jessica and Scott’s wedding in San Francisco, he surprised me by saying that it was the combination of beauty and grace. (The surprise being that John doesn’t usually describe things in that manner, or use words quite that, well…beautiful.) He explained to me that he enjoyed more than just the gorgeous setting and our wonderful bride and groom, but also that he could feel the quality of kindness and love that that surrounded Jessica and Scott all weekend long.
What a stylish bride! Jessica mentioned to me that she’d found her gorgeous vintage gown only a few weeks before. (now, that takes faith.) The one-of-kind stunner was absolutely perfect on her, as were her silver stilettos and the fantastic fur shrug she donned at the party.
And we’ve never met a more unflappable groom. From hello handshake to the goodbye hug (we’re always happy to get the “hug upgrade”) Scott was gentle, kind, and fully present every moment. It was wonderful to observe how happy Jessica makes him.
The weekend was one big whirlwind of love, happiness, tradition, family and celebration. Scott, Jessica; I wouldn’t be able to tell you my favorite part–I’d simply have to say, the whole thing.
Congratulations to you both. Here’s a slide show of our favorites.
UPDATE JULY 26, 2010. Jessica and Scott’s gallery is live. Follow this link to see all the images from the day.
Sometimes we feel a teeny bit disheartened when a prospective couple arrives at a get-to-know-you meeting with a photo checklist that they found in a wedding planning guide. Not because we mind a checklist, but rather because no list will do you or your wedding justice.
All our clients are completely unique. Crazily, warmly, lovingly unique. It’s the individuality of our wedding couples that we strive to find in our images–not the sameness that might be driven by a set of instructions of how your wedding day should go. (more…)
Oh, what a gorgeous wedding this was! The loveliness went on and on. Lisa, so charming and kind; Wendell, quiet and confidant. After spending just a day with these two, they can make you see into the future, to what a solid and loving life they will make with one another.
This wedding has been nearly impossible to winnow down to a tiny peek. It’s like each part of the day is worthy of a whole little story: the delicate and quiet preparations at the church, the fun and lively photos in the park, the traditional church ceremony, or the festive banquet; all gold and red and shining. I’m almost a week overdue with this post, simply because leaving something out feels like cutting off a finger. Alas, I contented myself with attempting a broad view and then supplementing with my favorite black and white images.
Lisa, Wendell, this little peek is only a part of what we’ll be showing you soon. We are waiting for your proof book to arrive. In the meanwhile, here is a little slideshow, set to the music that you’ve told us you enjoy.
UPDATE JULY 20 2010: Follow this link to see all the photos from Lisa and Wendell’s wedding day.
A frequent question we get from our wedding photography clients is: “How long should I allow for photographs on the wedding day?” Another is: “What time will you want to arrive to start shooting?” Here are some of the issues and logistics that what we take into account as photographers in answering that question for each wedding day.
The first thing we ask in response is: “Are you planning to see each other before the wedding?” Scheduling is often easier and stress levels are typically lower when couples choose to see each other before the ceremony. However, every wedding is different and every couple has unique desires and preferences. Some want the romance of meeting up at the altar. By knowing the pros and cons of each, couples can come to a clear decision about what’s best for them.
If you’re seeing one another before the wedding and planning on posed photos with your wedding party and family before the wedding, I’d recommend a schedule something like this. Keep in mind this is just a rough sketch. There are so many factors that will influence the shape of your day. This timeline can help you consider what time you might start your photo coverage or help you estimate how many hours you will need. (more…)
