Justin & Courtney's Wedding Day - Rancharrah, Reno, NV. Wedding Photography

The wedding day of Justin and Courtney was nothing short of amazing. Courtney tried to tell me about the venue they chose, but it wasn't until I saw it that I really believed her. Rancharrah, located right in Reno, is a stunning 150 acre establishment. Crumer Grove is where everything would take place. The ceremony would be on the lush green lawn and their reception was nestled under pine trees providing plenty of shade.

Groomsmen were in the Arbor Room with their whiskey and cigars. They all looked really good and were a lot of fun. Whiskey, cigars, sunglasses and men in suits - of course it is going to be an awesome time. For the ladies, their day started out as any other day with getting ready photos. The ladies got ready in a cute building on the property. Bridesmaids were in purple robes and, of course, the bride in white. Getting ready robes always provide unique photo opportunities. Plus, the champagne was flowing! When the time came for the bridesmaids to get dressed, I could see how amazing their dresses were. As they hung in the closet, it was difficult to imagine what they would look like. I was told they were called henkaa. This was my first time seeing these dresses and, wow, were they amazing. Each lady wore the same dress, just styled it the way they wanted and to best fit their body types. The bride, Courtney, looked gorgeous in her lace gown with straps that hung over her shoulders and all her bridesmaids and friends did an excellent job on her hair and makeup.

Come ceremony time, everyone was in place and the music began. The bride was escorted by her parents to music played by the groom's father. The newlyweds enjoyed in a sip of wine poured by the best man and touching wedding vows had everyone in tears. It truly is a wonderful reminder of how much you are loved on your wedding day when you can see so much true love and emotion on so many faces. These two seriously have so much support from so many family members and friends.

The reception was absolutely gorgeous and, since Justin is a DJ, the music was jamming. The tables were decorated with subtle detail, focusing on the seating arrangement place cards which were each hand-painted by the groom's mother. Plus, there was an awesome cake for the groom in the shape of a San Francisco Giants hat, complete with world series champions printed on the side. The entire day was jam packed with fun and everyone partied well into the evening.

Congratulations Justin and Courtney, (or should I say Jourtney?) your day was simply perfect!

Marlow & Michael's Lake Almanor Wedding - Northern CA Weddigng Photography

Every so often I meet a couple who I can instantly relate to. Marlow and Michael are one of the most down to earth couples I have ever met. Marlow has one of those calming personalities, I could tell she was going to be such an easy bride to work with. My first sign that Michael was awesome was when I learned he was a geologist. Those that know me know I have a sizable rock collection. Plus, the couple's wedding was going to be at Lake Almanor. Their love for the outdoors and mountains had them planning their wedding up in the Lassen National Forest. The natural lake setting was the perfect venue for this couple to say I do.

The yellow sunflowers in all the girl's bouquets and on the tables and aisle runners against the ladies persimmon-colored dresses was so beautiful. The arrangements were all so stunning and I was shocked to learn they were farmers market flowers and the bouquets were made by a bridesmaid. The bright colors all stood out against the green lawn, the blue sky and lake. Marlow and Michael would be saying their wedding vows under a beautiful hand made alter made by a groomsmen out of drift wood, which was also perfect for me to hang the brides dress for photos. You could really feel the love these two had from their bridal party and all their family as everyone was working hard to make things happen. Out of all the details, a favorite of mine was the fun "guest book" - leave a word of advice for the bride and groom on a rock!

Not only was everything so beautiful but I was told to bring fun to the party... so I did! The entire wedding party was game for all my crazy ideas and brought some of their own to the table. I truly had a blast with this crew. To top everything off, the couple was lucky enough to have a classic '36 Chevrolet join the party. This truly makes for a fun prop for photos. Everything I love about my job was reaffirmed during this magical day.

Also, I would love to take a moment to mention The Wedding DJ Company, I always enjoy seeing a familiar face. These guys are always so professional and helpful. When I needed help gathering up some people for a photo, Chris had no problem making an announcement for me and even followed up with another when he noticed people weren't responding. It is so important to work together and I have had the chance to work with these guys several times and every time it is a relief to know I have their support. Not to mention the dance floor was busy up until the moment we were ready to leave.

Congratulations again to the newlyweds! Your wedding was fun, beautiful, and filled with so much love. Thank you for having me and my team their to capture all the amazing moments.