Amy and Ryan had been dating for five years when he decided to propose.  The proposal took place in Hermosa Beach, under a setting sun, on Christmas Day and they’ve been planning the wedding ever since.  I instantly took a liking to Amy when she came to visit me three months ago and couldn’t wait to document her wedding at the Descanso gardens.  I had shot at the gardens before but this was my first wedding.  Although before we hit the gardens, the girls had decided to get ready at the Langham in Pasadena (one of my favorite hotels).

Anyone who knows my style knows that I am all about the story.  Who is the couple I am shooting today, what do they enjoy, what is around the room that exemplifies that, and what traditions or  rituals are they carrying with them.  The day can go by in a flash but that is always my main goal; to capture who they are as well as the events.  The shot below was one of those moments for me.  There was so much going on in the hotel room while the bride was getting ready so I was happy when I caught this moment between Maid of Honor and the crossing bride.  She has such a look of love and confidence as she gazes up at her best friend . . .these are the moments I love.

Another favorite moment for me is the first time the bride puts her dress on, the first time her girls see her in it,

and the first time the couple sees one another.  Amy and Ryan decided on doing their “first looks” privately, before the ceremony.  There was nobody around but them and the cameras of my crew.  I always get a little teary at this point.  It’s such a great moment to be a part of and is always emotional.  For more photography documenting their “first looks,” please see the slideshow below.

It was a gorgeous day at the Descanso gardens, everything was in bloom and delicately placed amongst a lush green backdrop.

The reception was directly adjacent to their rose garden ceremony, making it real easy for my crew and I.  We were set up and ready to go in no time.  Below is another favorite of mine: the first dance.

And before we knew it, the day had ended.  It goes by so fast.  This was my final shot.  I wanted one more, just the two of them, taking the day in beneath this lamppost that I had newly fallen in love with (it was more the light then the lamppost but you get the idea).

For more photography from their day, please play the slide show below.  Congratulations again Amy and Ryan!