Standing in the shade under a Palo Verde tree. Eyes closed, deep breaths, and Jeremy tapping his foot in anticipation of Ashley walking up behind him. “This is it babe, we finally made it to our wedding day” Ashley says. As Jeremy turned around to see his beautiful bride he was greeted with a big smile and eyes filled with tears. His hands immediately reaching out to give a long and warm embrace, “I love you so much” Jeremy whispered. Ashley’s brother standing off to the side holding their vow books patiently waiting to give them their vows. Now reading aloud to one another, their vows that only the two of them get to hear. Making commitments, promises, and always remembering to love one another each and every day. This is how you have an intimate, private first look on your wedding day.

The sound of relief from the air conditioner hitting your face on full blast. Driving our way through the neighborhood of Palm Springs to stumble upon a gorgeous mid-century modern property with bright yellow doors. Of course we had to stop to take a couple of photos with Ashley and Jeremy wearing their coordinating leather jackets! The stress and anxiety gone from being able to see each other before everyone else. The loud music playing in the car hyping us up for the ceremony as we made our way back to the Ace Hotel. 

February is still considered Winter for most of the country. In Palm Springs you are greeted with blue sunny skies, pops of color from the vegetation, and a vibe of pool-time with cocktails and chill. This atmosphere provided all the San Francisco’s and East Coast guests with an attitude of fun and let’s party. The welcome table greeted guests with fun colorful options of polaroid selfies, gift giving, and mingling. I was so excited that a polaroid camera was there, I took so many photos of guests throughout the day. Leaving a box full of polaroids by the end of the night for Ashley and Jeremy to view the following day at their brunch. 

Bubbles in the air, cheering, and clapping as Ashley and Jeremy walked down the aisle. Jeremy wrapping his arms on the lower back of Ashley and going in for that Hollywood passionate kiss. It made for the best “just married” photos. The pouring of Champagne and the passing of California fusion appetizers. With the DJ spinning vinyls, the sound of people mingling, and the pure joy that came over Ashley and Jeremy. The real party had begun!
From the first dance to the last dance of the night, everyone celebrated Ashley and Jeremy with laughter, “remember when…” phrases, and the “I’m so excited the two of you are married”  sentiments.

Ashley and Jeremy, thank you for flying me to San Francisco to capture your engagement photos. It was the beginning of a friendship that has continued past the wedding day. Your philosophy of living in the moment, enjoying the friend get-togethers, and laughing through life has brought so much joy into not only my life, but my family’s life. Thank you for entrusting me to photograph your love story in a way that is true to who you are. Cocktails, chill, and let’s party! 

Venue: Ace Hotel
Planner: The Walk Down the Aisle
Paper Goods: Swell Press
Hair and Make-Up: Sitting Pretty Beauty Lounge
Florals: Arrangements
Rentals: Planks and Patina
DJ: Dart Collective
Dress Designer: Daalarna Couture