San Juan Capistrano, CA Wedding at The McLaughlin Residence

Embracing Serendipity: A Journey from 2015 to 2023

As we revisit this unforgettable story in 2023, we can't help but marvel at the serendipitous journey that brought us these two incredible friends. In this digital age, the internet continues to amaze us in unexpected ways. Drew, now a dear friend, stumbled upon our work while exploring Pinterest (perhaps for the first time ever) from the lush jungles of Peru, where he and Emily's love story began.

From the very first email exchange, it was evident that we had found our kindred spirits! We arranged an engagement session during their visit to St. Louis, and the bond was instant. Last month, we had the joy of reuniting with them in Southern California to celebrate their wedding day. Little did we know that this beautiful connection would grow even stronger - they now live just 10 minutes away from us!

One of the most rewarding aspects of our profession is the lasting friendships we forge along the way. Our hearts swell with gratitude for every couple who has entrusted us to share their love story.

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Jordan + Rachael // Intimate Elopement in the Redwood Forest

Words don't really do justice to how special this day was and to how honored we felt to be a part of it. So I think I'll just let the photos speak for themselves. I really did try to narrow down to my favorites but when you're dealing with the Northern California coastline and the majesty of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park it's a tall order.

Check out the highlight video for even more gorgeousness...

A couple of weeks later we had the pleasure of capturing Rachael + Jordan's reception back home in St. Louis. Talk about the best of both worlds. Have I mentioned how much we LOVE shooting at Jefferson Underground!?

Redwoods Camp Wedding - Santa Cruz Wedding Photographer

I don't think I have enough adjectives in my vocabulary to truly tell you how I feel about this wedding and these two awesome people. Little did I know that when Bill and Mayka were planning their dream wedding they were also planning MY dream wedding! First of all can we talk about this dreamy venue situated perfectly in the mountains surrounded by redwoods? And Mayka's dress! A custom original with a story of it's own. These two seriously thought through every detail and created one magical day. I feel so incredibly grateful that Kyle and I got to play our small role and witness the beginning of Bill and Mayka's journey. 

And now for an extra special treat. Kyle has crossed over into filmmaking and is killin' it! So so sooooo proud of him!!!