The streets were still empty at the time I was driving, the sky was a shade of dark grey. When we all congregated at the observatory around 6am, it was still quiet, the sidewalks vacant if not for the occasional runner. We walked to the lawn, and as the sun peeked over the Hollywood hills, surrounded by just their closest family & friends, Ashley & Erika exchanged vows.

I had someone ask me once about the future success of my wedding photography business – based upon the kind of fancy venues I could hope to shoot at, or the kind of high-end expensive weddings I could “grow” to shoot. And I was confused about their question at first, and then surprisingly overjoyed as I realized I consider myself immensely successful already, because I get to shoot weddings like this, this very one you see below. That somehow in the past few years I’ve been drawn to and gotten to be a part of these types of days – the ones that have their sights constantly set on the right thing, the ones that are all about the love. These days have been both big and small, short and long, filled with details ranging from just a bouquet to quite a bit of lovely decor – but they are all the same in that the couples are warm, and the emotions are open and real, and there is just so much love in every corner.

I teared up more than a few times while editing these photos, and I feel very very fortunate to have been able to document this day.

There is something about the getting ready photos that makes them some of my favorites from the day. The excitement, the anticipation of course – but I also love that it’s my first glimpse into the rest of the day, a happy hint at what the next 8 or 9 hours may bring. Upon stepping into Jenny’s room, I was greeted firstly by her ethereal dress hanging softly in the corner, her fantastic shoes glittering by the bed. By the prettiest light (can all hotel rooms be this suite at The Standard??) By bridesmaids laughing & practicing a dance number to come during the reception, or helping with some last minute plans. And of course by a sweet and radiant bride, who hugged me with the biggest brightest smile, who was head over heels to jump into the rest of the day.

And just as this initial peek suggested, the rest of this wedding unfolded into moments that were just as perfect – a tearful first look, THE cutest doggy ringbearer (seriously please take a look at that guy, it will make your entire week), some of the most eloquent and touching toasts I’ve heard, and dancing under golden lanterns and city lights. Cafe Pinot, as always, was the perfect backdrop for their day – I seriously never get tired of shooting there! – and this whole wedding was just a dream to photograph…

I’m so excited to finally share this wedding! Jackie & Keith held the most lovely & whimsical wedding this summer, filled to the brim with the prettiest details that so perfectly reflected their style & personality. Inspired by their own beautiful flower garden at home, the day had a magical garden theme and was indeed filled with breathtaking florals {created by Botany}, including the amazing flower crown which adorned Jackie’s head (seriously though, how stunning is she??). It all took place at the classic Hotel Bel-Air, a quiet gem in the middle of LA, filled with lush gardens, a little pond, and lots of bougainvillea – my most favorite! The day was intimate and emotion-filled, and I couldn’t have been happier to be there to document it. Be sure to check out the sweet video by Joel Vanz as well!

{Thank you to Green Wedding Shoes, one of my most favorite wedding blogs, for featuring this wedding! You can read more about the day here!}