Chris & Anai's Northern CA Engagement Session

I just LOVED my time with Chris and Anai. They told me that they are the type of couple who are up for adventures, backpacking and road trips are a few of the things they love to do together. Knowing they were up for anything my mind starting brewing with ideas. The couple lives in Chico now but both are from the Lassen County area so they are no strangers to the beauty that surrounds Chico. We initially talked about traveling up hwy 32 from Chico towards Chester, CA., but I have always had my heart set on photographing a couple up hwy 70. Soooo, Chris and Anai took my advice and did a some scouting of their own and made a day trip to see what they thought of the scenic hwy. They decided they, too, loved what is known as the Feather River Canyon and could see some photographic possibilities.

We decided to start our session in Oroville at the Nature Center along the Feather River. Following the river up the canyon we stopped at a beautiful swimming hole. We ended our session in Belden Town, CA. Located across from the town is an old stamp mill which created a great playground for us and I loved how Chris' uniform looked against the historical monument. Before we decided to call it a day, we made our way over to the Belden Town Bridge. The bright rust orange color of the bridge makes it pretty unique.

Congratulations, Chris & Anai, on your engagement. I am so excited you two were up for the adventure. Thanks again. I had so much fun photographing you two and am beyond excited to capture your wedding day!

Justin & Andrea's Wedding Day - Greenhorn Creek Guest Ranch, Quincy CA.

Every so often I get the privilege of photographing old friend's weddings. In this case, I have known both Justin and Andrea for many years. The one thing that I can say about this couple with full confidence is that these two have a bond that is far stronger than most I have seen. Justin and Andrea are both so strong individually, but together they make a force that I believe can conquer anything. Their love for one another and their family is something I am so thankful to have witnessed and been able to capture.

After searching around for awhile, Justin and Andrea found their venue: Greenhorn Creek Guest Ranch. Located several miles outside of Quincy, CA, the rustic ranch was going to be the perfect venue for these two to say "I-do". Since the venue is a Ranch, the couple decided to run with the theme. The entire bridal party had on their cowboy boots and we even brought out the shot guns. There wasn't a dull moment with this group. Plus, Justin and Andrea decided to do a first-seeing, which I can't help but stress how nice it is to get the opportunity to take additional photos of the couple before the ceremony so photos take up less time after the ceremony.

The ceremony site was on a lush green lawn that overlooked a pond with a unique redwood arch. The ceremony, from start to end, was so touching. Justin was escorted by his dog, Bear, which had all of the guests laughing. As the padlock ceremony came, the crowd was in tears watching the entire family work together to place locks on their family tree. The climax of the ceremony occurred when the couple was directed to kiss for the first time as husband and wife: the Running of the Horses. Across the pond, a herd of horses ran from the ranch's corral to a pasture area, causing the earth to rumble and a cloud of dust rose behind the couple. The event had such an impact, the guests applauded and cheered. The entire celebration did a fantastic job at tugging at all the emotions.

Over my years of being a wedding photographer I have been so lucky to photograph at some amazing wedding venues all over California and Nevada, but every time I get the privilege of photographing a wedding where the guests stay the night and the party can go on well into the next morning, I always hear the best comments from guests. Congratulations to Justin and Andrea, your wedding was amazing! I am so thankful to have been their to capture and celebrate your love.