I met Tina two years ago when she came to me for some photos of herself. She was jumping in to the world of online dating and wanted nice and professional images to share on Match.com. Well, shortly after she posted the photos she got a message from a handsome, tall gentleman named Kevin who told me that it was her photos that drew him to her. You guys! How cool is this?! I was a teeny part of their love story and that makes the romantic in me scream from the rooftops! Of course I was thrilled when they asked me to be part of the next chapter – their elopement! They were married earlier in the day and we met up that evening for some portraits around their neighborhood!

I like to encourage my couples to incorporate things they love in to their engagement shoot. I knew for these two, that would mean beer! They also wanted to go to the San Diego Safari Park since they are pass holders! We started at the very spot where it all begin – Stone Brewery, the site of their very first date!

I’m so thrilled to share this fun wedding. I don’t typically take weddings on my birthday, but Julian and Ryan are something special. They have so much love in their heart for each other and even more to share with their baby girl Hazel Rose! And of course love for Star Wars. Ryan MADE the lightsabers you see in this blog! How freaking cool is that?! It was also my first time at Lafayette Hotel and my little photographer heart melted with all the brick and retro decor!

Ceremony + Reception Venue: Lafayette Hotel
Photo: Melissa McClure Photography
DJ: San Diego’s Favorite DJ
Florist: Studio Fleurish
Hair: Erica – Beauty Ever After
Makeup: Lily Gonzalez
Brides Dress: Janene’s Bridal Boutique
Bridesmaid dresses: David’s Bridal
Groom suit: Men’s Wearhouse
Bride shoes: Keds / Seychelles
Invites: Minted
Cake: Flour Power Cakery
Star Wars shoes: Jordan Latham: Paige Voo Doo Art
Decorations: Cheryl Clifford thejoyfuldwelling.com

I absolutely adore the vibe and colors that Palm Springs has to offer. I jump at any chance to shoot there! And the town is extra special to Bill + Heather since they met at Stagecoach! We hit up some popular locations and ended with the most gorgeous light in the desert! <3 And then of course, back to the Saguaro hotel for a tasty margarita! And of course, I have to give a shout out to Heather’s amazing Marchesa dress!

Katie and Alex had the most beautiful bay side wedding at the Kona Kai Resort. I got a little teary during Katie’s first look with her dad!! And that bouquet?! OMG! Contender for one of my top 5 bouquets ever. The party was rocking with DJ Dre Motion on the dance floor! Check out those moves down below by my good friend Tessa!! Venue: Kona Kai Resort
Photo: Melissa McClure Photography
DJ: Dre Motion
Florist:  Catalina Neal
Videographer: Luke with Pure Cinema