Yui & Naoki's Adventure Day, San Francisco, CA

Sometimes, when a potential client approaches me for my photography they'll ask me why I love what I do, and I tell them that it's because photography allows me to write a story. I get to create something that feels poetic and cinematic while capturing a part of their personal history. There's nothing quite like it. I am constantly humbled that people pick me for the job. However, when I have the opportunity to do an adventure day session, I am bowled over with bliss. It's a brave choice, as my clients agree to essentially "trash the dress," but this choice lifts all photographic limitations that may have been in place the day of the wedding, so the shoot becomes editorial with extraordinary photo-journalistic touches. And anything, absolutely anything, goes. Yui and Naoki are the special type of couple that really understood what they could do if they opted for an adventure day with me. Carpe Diem! I am in LOVE with these gorgeous images and ecstatic and Yui and Naoki braved the world of wind and water for a new kind of wedding story; impossible to forget. I am so privileged to have the opportunities I've had and seen the things I've seen in my work. Thank you Yui and Naoki for exposing me to the beauty of this day.

Wedding Style Shoot with Ali DiLuvio Events at Thomas George Estates, Healdsburg, CA

When Ali DiLuvio from Ali DiLuvio Events contacted me to do a style shoot, I couldn't say yes fast enough! Within 10 minutes we'd created a shared Pinterest board and got to work. Ali's vision was bohemian chic in wine country so, Thomas George Estates was therefore the perfect choice of venue.

Sitting atop rolling vine covered hills, Thomas George is absolutely breath taking. Upon my arrival I realized that Ali had meticulously collected a kaleidoscope of wedding details for the shoot, which I responded to much like a kid in a candy shop. There were birdcages with unique florals, vintage suitcases, blue doors, teal tables, canvas chairs, basically a photographer's dream come true. I couldn't sit still long enough while I waited for the final touches to be laid out. The shoot was composed of three "vignettes," that reflected the feel Ali and I were going for in the shoot. But the true star of the show was Evilyn Baltazar, our gorgeous bride; with make up by It’s a Date at The Powder Room and hair by Mary Menicucci, both perfectly expressing the naturally soft beauty we had hoped for.

The shoot day was split in to two, with two dress styles and two table sets; furniture and details provided by Ali herself and Encore Event Rentals. The first dress Evilyn donned was by Maggie Sottero, loaned to us from Brides n' Maids, accompanied by a enchanting hair piece by Nicole Petersen Tapia from Blushing Revolver. Evilyn's second dress was by Kroshetta from Papillon with all accessories again being provided by Blushing Revolver. Ali's table presentation was first all about teal, then cream. I loved how even though the details stayed the same, the feel of the table changed with the color base. Future brides take note! But, for me, the best part was in all the fun little touches, like the hints of purple and amber glass which created a beautiful compliment to the scenery. Florals were all provided by Wine Country Flowers and I just loved the aspen bark and succulent touches. A good florist is hard to find, but a great one is virtually impossible, so make sure to visit their site. For Ali however, the highlight detail were the napkin rings, provided by Encore, that had, apparently, inspired the whole shoot! Our dessert table was also quite succulent, as bell jars holding petits fours by Patisserie Angelica were as yummy to shoot as they were to eat! It was a magical day full of whimsy and romance. Thank you to all involved, including Sam Maller, my wonderful assistant :).