My first wedding of 2013 was a fantastic party to kick off an already amazing year!  After Leilani + Antonio’s killer Baltimore engagement session, I was so excited to get these two in front of my camera again – so much chemistry!  They said their emotional vows in front of their large group of family and friends from all over the world. I think this may have been my most multicultural wedding to date – Samoans + Portuguese were there to represent! I learned a lot about Samoan traditions (and what a close knit community they are) and watched the graceful Leilani dance so beautifully.  

This wedding is just a little different than others on my blog. Mainly because one of the bridesmaids may see uber familiar – it’s me!  One of  my oldest/closest friends, Kim married her Ryan last year and I got to play double duty as photographer and bridesmaid.  Well, I shot the portraits during the cocktail hour (in wedges and a long bridesmaid dress – mind you).  Mandi took care of the rest of the day for me!  I’m not gonna lie, it was probably the hottest day ever in the history of hot days.  And because so many people (men) ask, yes Ryan wore a baseball cap at his wedding.  And no, fellas, your bride probably will not let you wear one.  Kim is just that rad. But you have to be rad to be my friend, right?!

And just for fun, here is an iPhone photo Mandi grabbed of me shooting that day!

If I had to describe Art + Ivy’s wedding in one word: Fun. These two (along with their awesome family and friends) know how to have a good time. I met A+I at a Maui wedding where Art was a groomsmen. I was stoked when they asked me to be their photographer and then I found out they hired some amazing vendors as well! No details were skipped at this wedding thanks to Courtney with After the Engagement! From the brass knuckles, to the bedazzled fanny pack, to the insane grand entrance…this wedding was a non-stop blast!

Location: Pala Mesa Resort
Wedding Planner- Courtney with After the Engagement
Photographer- Melissa & Mandi
Videographer- Jerry with Cloudbreak Films
DJ- Allan Reyes
Hair- Savannah
Makeup- Pam Sirivong
Officiant- Robert Naranjo
Bakery- Cute Cakes
Florist- Exquisite Blooms
Musicians- Sensational String Sisters
Emcee – Arlo Magpantay
Candy Buffet – San Diego Candy Buffet
Photobooth – The Foto Box
Bride’s shoes: Badgley Mischka

I had such a fun time getting to know Josh + Ahanya in Laguna Beach!  They love to make each other laugh and just be silly.  I was able to catch some sweet moments in there as well!

When I see Maui in my inbox, my heart flutters.  I love it there. I feel at home there. I’m so fortunate to be there. I was especially excited when Bry told me she and Brian were getting married – I have known Bry for many years – since high school!  Thanks to Facebook we reconnected.  It was a gorgeous day on the island, and even when it started to sprinkle as Bry walked down the aisle – nothing could wipe that beautiful smile off her face! I think she would have married Brian amid a tornado!  She has the most infectious smile and laugh that I’ve seen!  The night ended with an intimate dinner at Merriman’s.

Getting Ready hotel: The Royal Lahaina
Ceremony & Reception: Merriman’s Kapalua
Florals/Planner: Bliss Wedding Design
Photographer: Melissa McClure
Hair/Makeup: Jessica Waite Associates