Melissa and Rick - A Yosemite Wedding

Melissa and Rick chose a memorable day to be married- Father's day. They gathered with close friends and family to celebrate at the Ahwahnee in Yosemite Valley and had a ceremony in the shadows of Half Dome. Their wedding was full of unique and personal touches, but their love spread across everyone and everything. Once again, James Steed shot with me throughout the day and helped me keep my head on my shoulders! These little guys were waiting outside of Melissa's room while all the girls got dressed. They tried their best to be patient... Mystery and intrigue, or just cover model? It really is hard to find a place more breathtaking than this to have a ceremony! Melissa and Rick had an amazing bridal party who did everything possible to help out. What great friends! The Solarium at the Ahwahnee is simply a beautiful room with expansive views of the surrounding valley. In the middle of the reception, Rick shocked us all with his voice as he sung directly to his new wife who simply closed her eyes and soaked it in. After the reception, we took Melissa and Rick through the park for a photo shoot. A beautiful shot of Melissa, the bride/fashion model. You should have seen the contorted position I put myself in. Actually, I'm surprised James didn't get a shot of it to blackmail me with. Big thanks again to Melissa and Rick - I wish that your adventures never end!

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Shannon and John - The big day!

What can I say, my brother and sister got married! Well, my sister-in-law (I still think of her as my sister) married a man who is now my brother-in-law-by-marriage (I prefer to think of him as my brother!) You may remember Shannon and John from their engagement photos last year in the river. They had a beautiful and intimate lakeside wedding in her parents backyard. The family really came together and helped with every little detail to create an amazing. Carol of Bellissimo Brides did a beautiful job with Shanon's hair and makeup. Reverend Autrey Nassar officiated the simple ceremony that focused on the love between Shannon and John -- tears flowed and love was thick. And somehow, despite me making them swim during their engagement photos, they let me photograph their wedding. The funny thing was that much like their engagement photos, we planned on taking pictures in Yosemite. But one thing lead to another.... Shannon was making changes to her vows right up until the last minute. Shannon's dog was never too far away at any time. Tyler, my son, was the flower boy and having a blast all day. I love the way this picture captures the humor and love of this man at the same time. Just remember: If you brother is taking the photos at your wedding, keep an eye on your dress or it may be hung precariously from a tree swinging in the wind. Thankfully it didn't fall in the dirt :) A perfect day and location for the perfect ceremony. John learned how to look like a tough guy. Shannon and John first met while working in a local grocery store. So when we decided to skip Yosemite, they wanted to take a photo at the grocery store. Did they know I would make them get into a shopping cart to do that? As the day wound down, we all met at our favorite local restaurant Savoury's for a delicious dinner in great company. Thanks again Shanon and John - I love you both and wish you the best!

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