Sasha and Joshua Olson's Wedding - April 7th, 2012 - Reno, NV. Hidden Valley Country Club

Reno is like a second home to me. Being raised in Truckee, it was common that many days throughout the year would require us to make the quick 45-minute drive to Reno for soccer practice/games and for entertainment like movies and bowling. The biggest reason why Reno is like a second home? Well, that is where Grandma lives. So when I got an email from a Sasha asking if I was interested in shooting her and her fiance, Joshua's, wedding in Reno, I was ecstatic!

As much as I hate to admit it, a small wave of nervousness washes over me every time a wedding approaches. Sasha and Joshua's wedding was no exception, mostly because I had not had a chance to meet with them, not even talk with them on the telephone, before their big day. However, almost immediately after meeting the bride I felt an instant bond. After comparing notes we realized that our pasts are somewhat intertwined. Having both grown up in Truckee only five years apart, Sasha and I share a handful of good friends and fond memories from childhood in a small mountain town. It was like we had known each other our entire lives. Joshua was such a gentleman and so extremely polite, they really made my job easy!

Although all weddings start the same in the early planning stages (choose a photographer, find a florist, hire a DJ, etc.), the variables of all factors involved (the bride & groom and their families, the venue restrictions, the weather, etc.) come together to make each wedding unique. Often, those unique qualities cause the photographer in me to get all giddy inside. For example, as an officer in the U.S. Army, Joshua donned his formal service uniform and walked his new bride into the reception hall through a Saber Arch which made for some rather dramatic shots. Another example is the bride's family's Jewish traditions which I felt so privileged to witness and to photograph. These included the ceremonial breaking of the glass and the Hora dance to Hava Nagila, which was sung masterfully by the bride's grandfather Steve. All combined, these unique and memorable moments made for one amazing day.

Thank you to Sasha and Joshua for having me photograph your wedding day. Congratulation again and again on your marriage. Here are some of my favorite images from your special day.