The first month of this year represents a lot of things. A bright fresh start. A chance to reflect. The entrance into the 26th year of my life (really? how did this happen? I swear it was just yesterday when I was hanging out at the mall thinking it was the cool place to be, or stressing over college apps, or hoarding grilled cheese sandwiches at the dorm dining hall).

And now, it represents one year from when I decided to take my first steps into the wide world of wedding photography. Where I was staring out at a far off dream, such a teeny tiny speck on the horizon, with nothing but a camera and without the faintest idea of how to move forward. And although I still have miles to go, I feel miles and miles from where I was, and so so incredibly blessed by what the past 12 months have brought. I stand here a year later and feel full – full of opportunities, full of people who helped me along away, full of knowledge, full of hope (and a little bit full of Sprinkles birthday cupcakes, YUM).

I could not be more thankful for this past year. And I could not be more excited for 2009 and all the clients, photographers, blog-friends (that’s you!), and other amazing people I have yet to meet. Let’s make it the most spectacular year ever!

My warmest love and thanks,

Adrienne

P.S. Please click below to view my Year-In-Review slideshow of some of my favorite moments from 2008, full of all the wonderful people I’ve been so fortunate to meet this past year! I included a handful of never-before-seen shots and a few from December sessions that have yet to be blogged. Enjoy and thank you again for a fabulous year!

Welcome to my new blog! Although my old blog served me well for quite some time, I am so excited to be in this new space! A special thank you to the Furious Photographers for offering this amazing blog template that I could customize away to my heart’s desire. And thank you to everyone who’s been following my blog so far – your input and encouragement is what makes blogging so much fun!

I leave you with a sneak peak of the bridal session that’s up next on the blogging list…

The guests, grouped at candlelit tables on a warm Californian fall night, grew quiet as the best man began his speech. The way he described their relationship summed it up perfectly: “when I asked Larry about Mary, he simply replied ‘I love her man, I just love her.‘ Now, we all say we love our wives, but no one says it like THAT!” The reception came to life with laughter, but you could see it in everyone’s eyes that they knew what he meant. The way Larry beamed with joy as Mary walked down the aisle, the way he made her laugh. I could tell from our very first meeting, digging into pastas and BBQ chicken pizzas at CPK, that they were absolutely perfect for each other.

The wedding was held in the backyard of their stunning Walnut home. I was so impressed with all of the details (organized by the fabulous Ada of Fresh Events Company!) that transformed their home into the most beautiful and intimate of venues. I loved that Mary and her bridesmaids were able to get ready upstairs and then waltz downstairs for the ceremony – none of the stress of running between different sites! At night their backyard was transformed into a beautiful reception site, with a cozy bar and floating candles across the pool. Mary’s vision for her wedding perfectly matched her own admirable qualities – elegant, friendly, and warm.

Mary & Larry – thank you so much for choosing me to document your special day! Scott and I had such a great time at your wedding and wish you all the best in the years to come!! :)

Starting off with some details…

Something about lace dresses gets me everytime – love it!

Mary was absolutely radiant!

The ceremony begins… Larry’s smile just kept getting bigger and bigger as Mary walked down the aisle!

Catching the last of the light with a few portraits:

Love the rays Scott grabbed in this one!

And then it was time to morph the place into reception-mode!

Could this BE any cuter?? (*insert Chandler voice here*)

Mary and Larry rocked the rhumba for their first dance:

Their cake was from Ms. Ruby’s Bakery, renowned for their scrumptious red velvet. When we first met up to discuss their wedding plans, they so kindly gave me a piece, and it was honestly to DIE for!