Chloe's Birth - Baby Lola

I'm a mother - I have given birth and I know the miracle of life. However, watching someone else experience and being able to witness it from behind a camera is something truly magical. Chloe is the amazing photographer who photographed my family just two months ago. She is a good friend, a beautiful person, and an excellent mother to their 3 1/2 year old daughter, Ella. Chloe's birth with her older daughter was medicated and she knew that she wanted a different birth experience for baby Lola. Along with her two Doulas, her mom, and her amazing husband, Chloe gave birth to Lola naturally in the water at her hospital. Her support team was flawless and watching Chloe birth naturally was an inspiration and the kind of thing that makes me want to pump my fist in the air. As Lola was being born my heart was racing and I was struggling to hold back the tears...all the while a giant smile was plastered on my face. It was one of those times that I had to step outside of myself to see how lucky I am - I got to witness life. Chloe, you're amazing and I'm so proud of you. Congratulations on your beautiful baby girl!

For those of you wondering, I do not take on birth "clients" - it's something that I do when I can for people that I know. For Chloe's birth I left the house at 10:45pm and didn't get home until after 4am and that's not something I can do all of the time, especially around a wedding schedule :) There are AMAZING photographers who's main focus is birth photography and if you're pregnant, I can't think of a better investment.

Kristy & Michael's Palm Springs Wedding

The first time I met Kristy and Michael was on a balmy 108 degree day in downtown Palm Springs where we met to do their engagement session. When I haven't met a couple before (we had only emailed) I always wonder what type of people they are going to be and how we are going to get along. I mean, I get along with nearly everyone, but you know what I mean. Well, I ended up spending nearly 3 hours with Kristy and Michael at 4 different locations - I truly could have photographed them all day long. You can see their engagement session here! I knew that we'd have fun at their wedding and they did not disappoint. Their wedding was held at a truly magnificent private residence just outside of Palm Springs, the home of one of the groomsman's fathers. Kristy was glowing in her Jimmy Choos (the CHOOS!) and ethereal dress. I was a huge fan of the bright yellow that she chose for her bridesmaids and their fun chunky gold necklaces. Michael is a musician and when he was with his guys it was like a constant party. I have so many photos of them laughing which I love. The reception was amazing, on the grass under the stars with the smell of the fresh Mexican cuisine being cooked over fire. The tables were scattered with custom guitar picks with the couple's photo on them, carrying their theme of music and rock and roll.

Congratulations you guys! I had a wonderful time at your wedding and you make an amazing couple.

Cara & Jason's Brookside Equestrian Center Wedding

As with most of my couples, I consider Cara and Jason to be friends of mine. Cara is vibrant, funny, and everyone loves her (it's true, my dear). Jason is soft spoken, kind, and is a perfect match for Cara. Their wedding was one of the most laid back, relaxed events that I have ever attended. This is due in large part to their amazing wedding planner, Rose. Also, it just suits Cara and Jason's personality - of course their wedding would be fun and genuine because that's who they are as people. The highlight of the day for me was the reception. Yes, all of it. From the funny speeches to the silly dancing, to the surprise post-dancing taco truck and the grand exit, it was something that every guest enjoyed. The Brookside Equestrian Center is a wonderful venue to enjoy the amazing Southern California weather in the fall, under the stars and on the soft grass.

Cara and Jason, I could not be happier for you!

I just have to include this photo - Cara and Jason's wedding marked the 3rd wedding this year that I have photographed where my friend Amanda has been a bridesmaid. PS, are those not the best looking photo-bombers you've ever seen?!

Can you guess the song?

Uh oh...here comes Cara's dad and big brother!