Happy new year! Here’s a lovely wintery beach session to start off your 2013! How lucky are we here in so cal that we can visit the beach year round? And how lucky are Emily and Cody that they live just a few blocks from the shore? We shot their engagement session along the beach in Hermosa, the same spot where he proposed :)

I know it’s been quiet here on the blog over the holidays, but I’ve been lining up lots of sweet weddings and sessions to share, so stay tuned! :)

it’s that time of year
when the world falls in love
every song you hear seems to say
“merry christmas
may your new year’s dreams come true”

and this song of mine
in three-quarter time
wishes you and yours
the same thing, too

Thank you to Style Me Pretty for featuring this shoot! You can view more here…

Mara & John wanted to throw a “last hurrah” type engagement party before their intimate wedding next year, and invited their closest family and friends out for a mini-retreat to celebrate. It was all held at the most beautiful Parker Palm Springs – a brightly-colored oasis in the middle of the desert, a place that has long been on my must-shoot-there! list, with lush gardens that calm your soul & the most stunning modern decor. (Added bonus – bougainvillea everywhere!! I could shoot those pretty little blooms all day long.) Mara & John made full use of the gorgeous property, with cocktails in the lobby, mingling on the lawn, an indoor reception, and portraits around the gardens.

A little peek into the lovely evening…