Erika Jackson Photography - The Blog

{Married}: Alicia & Jeff

2011-11-26T11:18:00.001-08:00

I couldn't have picked a better wedding to end my 2011 season with. I shot Alicia's sister Erin's wedding last year and have kept in touch with the family since then. When I arrived Friday morning to see Alicia, Erin and their mom, Eva, I felt like I was part of the family :)

I think the pastor put it best when he pointed out that a couple must be very loved by their friends and family for guests to not even budge when the rain starts pouring on an outdoor ceremony. Jeff and Alicia, you have started a beautiful family and I can't wait to watch you all grow. Thank you for asking me to shoot your fabulous wedding day. I loved every minute - even the soaking wet ones :) Yours, ej.

So many sweet babies!

I love that just one year ago Alicia was helping Erin get into her dress (trip down memory lane here!).

That's love.

These may be the closest sisters I've ever met.

Two minutes without rain!

Alicia & Jeff with their sweet boys.

{Married}: Holly & Chris

2011-11-13T09:05:00.001-08:00

We've been waiting for 11-5-11 to get here for a long time...but not just since Chris & Holly got engaged last July...and not just since they moved in together after college...and not just since they dated through college. We've been waiting for this day since Holly & Chris started dating in high school and we realized how happy they made one another. Holly is my little sister (in-law) and the whole family fell in love with Chris many, many years ago. These two have been through so much together and it has all worked to make them one of the strongest couples I know. Last weekend was a celebration of their journey together and the life they have ahead of them and it was beautiful.

There aren't two people that deserve more happiness than these two. Holly & Chris, I love you and am excited to watch you two grow old together - and to eat Imo's pizza with you, to celebrate Christmases with you and to someday raise our kiddos with you. Yours, ej.

I loved getting photo updates as Holly shopped for dresses thousands of miles away. When I saw this one I new it would be the one.

I love that Holly's mom, Marla, along with her Aunt Janie, who babysat the kids when they were little, were there to put the finishing touches on the dress.

She's gorgeous. This will be a recurring theme.

The wedding took place at Quail Ridge Lodge in St. Charles, Missouri.

It was a stunning location and we got super lucky with beautiful weather for this late fall wedding!

Groomsmen being pensive :)

The problem with fall is the sun sets so dang early. Luckily, Holly & Chris opted to see each other in advance which gave us plenty of time to wander around and shoot. So glad they did.

I love the way he looks at her.

Remember what I said about her being gorgeous? A few more good examples :)

They could not be cuter.

Holly's a crier and I love it about her. Here she and Marla are getting a good laugh about her inability to keep it together.

Married!!!

Isn't my husband cute? Not as cute as Holly, but still pretty darn cute :)

He was a proud big brother on Saturday.

Their favorite kiddo, their nephew Ethan, was delighted to see them.

Holly seriously rocked the details.

Andy, Holly & Jake's brother, probably gave the best toast I've ever heard.

And then it was time to party. These two take that job pretty seriously.

{Engaged}: Krysti & Cole

2011-11-02T23:06:00.000-07:00

I've known Krysti for a few years and was so happy when she asked me to shoot her & Cole's engagement session. We met up in Berkeley's Tilden Park and spent the evening shooting away while they picnicked. I loved how they interacted with each other and I think the photos reflect how excited they are to be getting married. Hope you like them too!

{Married}: Rebekah & Al

2011-10-28T23:50:00.000-07:00

Despite being born on opposite sides of the world, Rebekah and Al truly found their best friend in one another. The stories told about their relationship throughout their ceremony were truly inspiring and made me tear up more than a couple of times. Working with these two was such a treat for me - nothing makes my job easier than getting to shoot a couple that is madly in love.

Their afternoon wedding in Moss Beach was beautiful, relaxed and close-knit and a joy to be a part of. Rebekah and Al, thank you for your extreme warmth towards me and for giving me the opportunity to shoot your day. I hope the cruise is treating you well! Yours, ej.

{Niki & James}: Anniversary

2011-10-20T21:15:00.000-07:00

As a photographer I can't ask for anything more than couples that come back time and again to trust me in documenting their story. This is the third time I've photographed Niki and James and hopefully won't be the last. We met two years ago when I shot their engagement photos and their wedding and this time they decided to shoot some anniversary pics around their new home town of San Francisco. We had a beautiful, blustery day at Twin Peaks and the beach talking about life, living in the bay and what the future holds. Enjoy some of my favorites :)

{Married}: Shanna & Chris

2011-10-07T08:09:00.000-07:00

As wedding season 2011 begins to wind down, I am grateful for such happy, friendly couples to end my season with. Chris & Shanna were no exception. I met them two years ago when Shanna was a bridesmaid in Caitlin & Tom's wedding and after shooting their engagement party and engagement photos I really feel like I know the whole fam!

Shanna & Chris are so sweet to one another. I love when you can see a bride and groom's nerves wash away after their first look. It really shows how much the day will be about the two of them and their relationship, first and foremost. Saturday was a gorgeous day and we were lucky to have such a perfect wedding to shoot, thanks to all of Shanna & Chris' planning. Thanks again to the lovely Sarah Maizland for shooting with me! Chris & Shanna, I hope the green hills of Ireland are providing a relaxing vacation for the next week. Travel safely and enjoy these sneak peaks! Yours, ej.

The flowers were beyond amazing!

First look happiness!

Shanna's niece and nephew are the cutest!!

The wedding was at Wente Vineyards - a magical spot!

It's a small world...though I met these two in California, they actually live in St. Louis! All of their tables were St. Louis places that they love! I felt like I was at home :)

Never hurts to throw in a little Star Wars...

Caitlin & Tom, remember them?!? :)

{Married}: Tova & Jason

2011-09-29T22:47:00.000-07:00

Watching the sun set over the bay while Tova & Jason said their vows was a pretty great way to spend my Satuday evening :) Thank you, Tova and Jason, for inviting Sarah and I to document your day. You are clearly loved and supported by so many and it was a beautiful day to witness.

I hope Maui is treating you well :) Yours, ej.

Tova & Jason's wedding was at Mira Vista Country Club. The views of the bay area were spectacular!

It's hard to beat a sunset over the entire bay area!

Remember Anya & Casey? Their one year anniversary is just around the corner! Tova was a bridesmaid in their wedding. It's so great to shoot couples I've met at previous weddings!

Congratulations again, you two!

{Married}: Roxy & Dave!

2011-09-23T08:10:00.000-07:00

I love when I get to shoot a wedding of a long-time friend. I met Roxy and Dave as soon as I moved to California six years ago and was thrilled when they asked me to photograph their day. Dave & Roxy had an unforgettable wedding on Sunday afternoon in Tilden Park. Each time they greeted a new guest I could tell how genuinely happy and thankful they were that their friends had traveled all across the country to celebrate with them. It was a lazy afternoon with delicious food, a little badminton and lots of catching up as the sun slowly crept down and cast a gorgeous glow over the meadow. Dave & Roxy, it was a treat to be at your wedding as a photographer and a friend. Yours, ej.

Dave & Roxy had the perfect spot in Laurel Meadow to say their vows.

Friend, you are gorgeous.

Seriously cool rings. Their fingerprints are imprinted on each other's wedding band.

Roxy and Dave knocked the details outta the park. Well done, you two.

If you live in the bay area you've probably seen the Roli Roti food truck around at farmer's markets. They make the most amazing rotiserrie chicken. And see those potatoes cooking underneath - I could eat those every day for the rest of my life. The secret ingredient???...lavender salt...made on a farm where Dave used to work!

Because we weren't full or anything...

Really beautiful, genuine messages from their friends.

To me this picture captures the feeling of the entire day.

If you're from Davis, you've definitely heard of Jaymes' Fat Face Popsicles. She is a staple at the farmer's market and make the most incredible popsicles. Just look at the descriptions!

The Vassar crowd :)

Congratulations, Roxy & Dave. So happy to know you two.

{Married}: Maria & Eric

2011-09-16T08:11:00.000-07:00

It's always such a joy to go home to shoot a wedding for an old friend. Maria and Eric are now fellow Californians but decided to go back home to get married and I'm so glad they did. It was great getting to shoot on the Mizzou campus again and really fun to be back at Lela Raney Hall! Maria and Eric had such a fun, relaxing, loving day as they declared their love for one another in front of family and friends. I am so incredibly grateful to have been a part of this wedding. Maria and Eric - I hope you're enjoying your honeymoon! Thank you, thank you, thank you for inviting me to document your day!! Yours, ej.

Maria's brother, Ryan, who initially planned to walk her down the aisle couldn't make it back from Afghanistan so he was skyped in to witness the wedding. Technology rocks.

Maria and I grew up in Columbia, Missouri, the home of the University of Missouri. These columns are a sign of being home to both of us :) Thankfully the rain held off for a couple minutes!

The rain did it's best to shrink our shooting time but thanks to a huge umbrella and a fabulous maid of honor (you're the best, Tricia!) we made it work!

I hadn't been back to Lela Raney Hall since my own wedding there 3 years ago - such sweet memories. It's a fantastic place to get married and have your reception. And an absolutely lovely job was done by Kent's Floral on all the flowers!

A moving toast...

Following in American and Filipino tradition the money dance was performed and all donations were pinned to the bride and groom!

Love Maria's mom (below) and Eric's parents (above)!

Congratulations, Maria and Eric!! Your day was wonderful!!

{Courtney & Ryan}: Married

2011-08-24T22:13:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love Sonoma weddings! Courtney & Ryan's day was everything I could hope for - a completely romantic, meaningful day that was relaxed, enjoyable and topped off with a rockin' party. These two have such a sweet love story and I loved getting to know them. Special thanks to my darling friend who came out from Colorado to shoot with me this weekend. Thanks, Jess!!

Courtney & Ryan - you two were wonderful to work with and I hope these photos remind you of what a happy day you had. Congratulations and many wishes for a lifetime of happiness. Yours, ej.

Such a cute salon! If you're ever in Sonoma, head over to Camille!!

Courtney went above and beyond on the details for her day. She'll give the credit to Etsy but her taste and style clearly made it all come together.

Time for a first look! We only had a few minutes for portraits after the ceremony so it was great to have these two see each other in advance.

Clearly impressed ;)

John knew that keeping Aunt Courtney's ring on that pillow was pretty important...

Proud parents!

Outstanding toasts all around ;)

Livewire put on quite the show! Courntey's brother decided to help out when it came time for Katy Perry.

{Married}: Jiwon & James

2011-08-14T19:10:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I had the honor of photographing a gorgeous wedding in downtown Oakland. Preservation Park could not have been a better backdrop for James & Jiwon's celebration of friends, family and their love. Guests traveled across the globe to witness their vows, toast their marriage and have a great night under the stars. My second shooter, Sarah, and I agreed that it was just a perfect night. Thank you so, so much, Jiwon & James, for inviting us to be a part of your event. Your love for one another brought smiles to so many faces throughout the day, including our own. Congratulations! Yours, ej.

{Family}: Sarah, Eric, Kiely & Atticus

2011-08-10T12:04:00.000-07:00

I met Sarah soon after we moved to California and since then she's had two of the cutest babies I've seen. I still can't believe how big Kiely is each time I see her and Atticus is just about the chubbiest, fun-to-hold babe you could ask for. They just moved to Virginia but wanted some family photos from the west coast before the move. Here are some favorites! Hope you all are enjoying the other coast!

{Married}: Ashlee & Ethan

2011-08-05T08:46:00.000-07:00

My good friend, Emily, introduced me to Ashlee and Ethan three years ago, so on Saturday it felt like I was shooting a close friend's wedding. The wedding was beyond perfect. Boston was on its best behavior, providing us with beautiful, mild summer weather for the outdoor wedding. Ashlee & Ethan put so much work into every detail, from the handmade corsages to the scrabble-themed tables. It was obvious that Ashlee and Ethan's family and friends absolutely adore them, and it's easy to see why. Ashlee & Ethan - I am happy to call you friends and am so thankful that you invited me to Boston to photograph your day. Congratulations on finding each other - it's clear to anyone that spends time around you just how perfect you are for one another!!

Yours, ej.

LOVED Ashlee's dress!

Checking each other out at the first look!

Umm, Ashlee, you are beyond adorable.

Married!!!

I love the red and yellow buildings - the fun thing about shooting in new cities is all the new architecture that you would never get back home!

They happened to get married outside of the building where they signed the papers for their new home!

The reception was in the Cambridge Multicultural Arts Center which provided an absolutely stunning backdrop for their evening!

Emily, my friend who introduced me to Ashlee and Ethan is in green. She's fantastic and I'm so thankful she's found this wonderful group of women to have as friends in Boston. Anne (left) and Jenny (right) are pretty darn fantastic as well :)

The grand entrance!!

Chatting with her mama during a dance.

Gotta check out the bling!

Congratulations again, Ashlee and Ethan!!

{Married}: Malena & Andrew

2011-07-13T23:10:00.000-07:00

Malena & Andrew: I told you that I wished you would get married every weekend and I meant it. Shooting your wedding as an absolute dream. From the moment I got out of my car on Friday night until I left on Sunday afternoon you treated me like family and I got to see what an amazing relationship you have. You are loved by so many (as evidenced by your 500 guests!) and I look forward to keeping in touch with you two. Thank you so, so much for inviting me to be a part of your day. Yours, ej.

Clint Klipfel & Kim Martin, owners of Florassentials, completely outdid themselves in the decorations and flowers.

I was stunned each time I saw a new piece. They are based in Columbia, Missouri but open to travel. Give them a call!!

Malena's sisters were her bridesmaids and made for excellent models :)

Rebecca is one of my closest friends from college so it was wonderful to spend some time with her!

A seriously packed church!

Headed out to the farm for some pics! I love Portageville, Missouri :)

Malena & Andrew: you are dreamy together.

These people know how to party.

Pictured above are the Wilsons - some of Malena's closest family friends.

Guests came from all over the world down to the boot heel of Missouri for this wedding - Hong Kong, Finland, Montreal and more!

Left: The Gator Dance. I had never seen it before this wedding but it is awesome. Look it up.
Right: Nothing beats the bride and groom dancing on a table at their reception - except when the bride's mother joins them.

{Family}: Michal, Bryce, Noa & Oren

2011-07-11T17:26:00.000-07:00

I met Michal, Bryce, Noa and Oren out at the park a couple weeks ago to stroll around and take a few new shots of their family. I have watched these two little ones grow up for six years now - Noa since she was about 1 year old and Oren since he was born! They are absolutely delightful to be around and I always love making new photos for their family!!

Noa - pure sweetness. Oren - a complete ham!

{Engaged}: Jessica & Josh

2011-07-06T08:59:00.000-07:00

Jessica & Josh : Thank you for reminding me how much I love my job. Spending this warm Missouri evening hiking around Rockbridge park with you was absolutely refreshing. I love your story, how you interact with each other and how easy it was to hang out and photograph you two together. Thank you. I hope these photos make you smile. yours, ej

p.s. - check out Jessica's etsy store or facebook page to follow her crafty adventures - darling stuff!!!

{Married}: Lauren & Hunter

2011-06-25T12:17:00.000-07:00

I was so lucky to start my 2011 wedding season with Lauren and Hunter. From the minute I landed in Dallas I was impressed by how kind and lovely they were to each other, their friends, and their families. Lauren and Hunter, you two made my first Texas wedding incredible. Your day was perfect, and I look forward to seeing y'all soon! ;) Yours, ej.

The classic pocket square dilemma ;)
These boys looked seriously sharp once all these details were ironed out!

We went to Texas Women's University, Lauren's alma mater, for the first look and some bridal portraits.

Bless them for their beautiful library and outstanding air conditioning! It was 105 degrees on Saturday!

Lauren & Hunter opted for a first look so they could have a little time to themselves before the ceremony. Love Hunter's reaction to seeing Lauren for the first time!

Ceremony time! Pretty sure she couldn't be happier to be marrying her guy.

One last look at her girls before her I dos!

I loved this moment - right after the recessional they just grabbed on to each other and didn't let go.

Hunter's groom's cake was his class ring from Texas A&M made into a giant cake!

Hunter was given his grandfather's own shotgun as a wedding present. It was so sweet to see how much it meant to Hunter.

Mr. & Mrs. Jarvis - You are wonderful. Congratulations again.

{Baby-on-the-way}: Matt & Monica

2011-05-28T11:57:00.000-07:00

I sat with Monica on her deck, drinking lemonade and eating freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. I was going on about some pointless story and after a lull in conversation she said, "well, I have some news. I'm pregnant!" I screamed out in excitement and then reprimanded her for letting me talk about nonsense when she had such important news to share. Monica has been a close friend of mine since I moved to California and I couldn't be more excited that she and Matt are going to be parents. Here are some of my favorites from my shoot with them last night! Check back in mid-July for newborn pics of baby Mason!

{Engaged}: Tova & Jason

2011-04-19T14:30:00.000-07:00

I met Tova when she was a bridesmaid in Anya & Casey's wedding last fall so I was thrilled when she contacted me about photographing her and Jason's big day! I spent Sunday afternoon hanging out on the Berkeley campus with Tova, Jason and their super sweet puppy, Maya. We had a perfect day to shoot, chat about their lives and the wedding. Enjoy some of my favorites from our afternoon!

{Family}: Felts Clan

2011-04-15T02:13:00.000-07:00

I hope y'all have some extra time today because narrowing down photos of my own niece and nephew is nearly impossible - thus this is a ridiculously lengthy post. I went home for my mom's birthday and loved spending time with this whole crew. Addie can totally say my name, Quinn can tell me everything I ever wanted to know about Star Wars and it was wonderful to be at home at my parents' house to nurse a horrible winter cold. My time with these folks is always wonderful but this trip was especially refreshing. Looking forward to summer weddings in Missouri and more visits with the fam.

Bath time!

Quinn turned 5 two weeks ago so these light sabers are totally old news but he sure loved them that day.

Using "the force" to its full effect.

Addie and Mom join in ;)

He knows to be gentle and not to play as hard with Addie as he does with his Dad.

He'll put his hand out and say "gentle force!"

Little brother and sister above, big brother and sister below :)

{Engaged}: Amber & Andy

2011-04-08T16:54:00.000-07:00

So excited to begin and end the week by posting fun, spring engagement sessions! I loved shooting Amber & Andy's engagement photos last weekend in Sacramento along the American River. We had gorgeous weather and the were so relaxed and easy to shoot. Their dog, Abby, came along and I think I'm in love - she couldn't be sweeter. Amber & Andy - I loved getting to know you guys!! Enjoy your photos!

Abby's not havin' it ;)

{Engaged}: Courtney & Ryan

2011-04-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

I met up with Courtney & Ryan at Cornerstone Sonoma on a beautiful California afternoon for their engagement shoot. They are so sweet together and I'm super-excited to document their wedding this summer. Enjoy these photos from one of the coolest spots in Sonoma!
Congratulations, Courtney & Ryan!

{Engaged}: Rebekah & Al

2011-03-28T08:47:00.000-07:00

Good morning, friends! Hope the weekend treated you all well. Mine was wonderfully relaxing but nowhere near as fun as last weekend - which was when I got to meet Rebekah and Al at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco for their engagement shoot. We completely lucked out with the weather. It absolutely poured All day Friday and Saturday morning, but when the clouds broke I called Rebekah and asked if we could get started early to try and beat the next storm. Apparently the weather knew we needed a sunny afternoon so we had amazing weather for the entire shoot!!

So excited for Rebekah and Al's wedding this October down in Moss Beach. Until then, enjoy my favorites of this sweet couple. They live a few thousand miles apart so it was pretty easy to capture their joy for being together!

{Family}: Amanda, Brennan & Kyler

2011-03-21T14:32:00.000-07:00

It was so great to meet with with Mandy, Brennan and Kyler again on my last trip to Missouri. We were hoping for a huge Missouri rainstorm to clear, but
once the tornado sirens went off we decided to just have a cozy family session indoors. And I'm so glad we did! I think we really got to capture these three
as they truly are. Kyler just turned 2 and is getting so big and so talkative. I love all of these shots, but here are my favorites!

Had to have a little fun playing in the rain outside :)

{Engaged}: Jiwon & James

2011-02-14T08:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines's Day, friends! I'm so pleased to have such a darling couple to share with you on this day of love. I met Jiwon and James a few months ago and am thrilled to be shooting their wedding. They met here in Davis so we stopped by some of their old favorite spots for photos. Enjoy!

Our shoot was on their 5 year anniversary of their first date, so we decided to grab coffee at the same spot they had been that night!

A little campus love...

So fun to shoot around the law school - where they originally met!

{Married} : Tai & Lukas

2011-01-25T21:45:00.001-08:00

I can't believe I'm just now getting a chance to blog this wedding! I second shot Tai & Lukas' wedding for my friend, Mariea Rummel, and then got so busy with my own clients that I didn't get their wedding up on the blog until now. It's sort of nice to re-live those summer months though in the dead of winter! This morning we could barely see 10 feet in front of us with the heavy fog!

Enjoy some of my favorites from this gorgeous wedding here in Davis. These two were an absolutely pleasure to work with!!

Lukas' brother helping him get ready...

I spent the morning with the boys while Mariea worked with the girls. I loved getting to shoot at this Davis landmark!

A first look and a few portraits before the big ceremony!!

Lukas & Tai have such a cute little pup!

Holidays - 2010

2011-01-14T13:48:00.000-08:00

The time I was able to spend with my family over the holidays was so refreshing and relaxing. I don't post too much about my own day to day life on the blog but some of the images that Jake and I captured over the break really accurately reflect life with my family and I love that. Here's to another great year leading up to the next holiday season!

Addie, my niece, continues to be an absolute doll.

She can say my name but her most common phrase is "I dunno".

I love getting to watch my sister-in-law, Tia, be with her kids.

I hope I can be as good of a mom as she is someday.

The relationship my mom has with her grandkids is extra special. They love their maw-maw so, so much.

Jake and I aren't exactly used to Missouri winters anymore but we sure did appreciate this beautiful Christmas Eve snowfall.

We took a walk with dad to check it all out.

The family Christmas get together resulted in my setting up a photo booth and letting everyone take their own photos.

It was a hit and we got some fantastic photos of families being their crazy selves.

My entire crew - mom, dad, my brother Matt, his wife Tia, their kids Quinn & Addie, Jake and me!

The magic tree! Loved getting to see this again this year.

That time just about 20 minutes after sunset allows for some pretty incredible photos of the sky. If I had gone out about 5 minutes earlier I could have exposed the lights and the sky together a little better but I still like how these turned out.

Hope you all had a wonderful holiday break. Thanks for perusing through some of my fun holiday moments.

{Engaged}: Shanna & Chris

2011-01-05T14:55:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!! If this is your first time back to the blog since January 1st you may have noticed the new look! I spent the last few months working on my new site and I'm so excited to start off a new year with a new look. Kristen Brown of Hoot Design designed the new logo (thank you!!!) and my husband, Jake, and I worked together to re-vamp the website. I am so grateful for their help and absolutely would not have been able to do this without them.

Don't run off to check out the new website just yet because first you have to scroll through my first engagement session of 2011! Shanna & Chris are getting married in the bay area in October but live in St. Louis so my holiday travels provided the perfect opportunity to shoot their engagement session in Missouri. Shanna was a bridesmaid in a wedding I shot almost 2 years ago so it was great to see her and Chris again and I can't wait for their wedding to get here. Scroll through to see some favorites from their engagement shoot in Forest Park!

...now you can go check out the new site ;)

Happy New Year - looking forward to sharing my year with you! I hope you'll follow along!

{Newborn}: Charlie

2010-12-11T12:02:00.000-08:00

Since we live so far from home our friends' families have taken us in and treated us as one of their own. We spent last Christmas with Keli's family and met her brother and his darling wife. When I heard they were pregnant I was so excited since it was sort of like getting another nephew for myself. We were texted updates throughout Thanksgiving day when Nelly went into labor and I got to go meet the little guy just 9 days later. Here are some of the first photos of James Charles, the sweetest little thing on earth. Congratulations, Michael & Nelly!!

That's right, she gave birth less than two weeks before this photo. If she weren't the sweetest person ever, I think I might hate her ;) Nelly - you are such a wonderful mom and freaking beautiful. (Oh, and let's not forget that the woman is wearing stilletos. Incredible.)

Gotta capture real life.

So, Michael & Nelly are really good at making beautiful children. More evidence below with their oldest, Sarah, who is 3 years old and absolutely hilarious. How many 3 year old girls do you know that know what a quarterback and wide receiver do?

Again, have to capture real life moments when they happen! It was a cute picture before the pee began but then it became my favorite picture :)

{Family}: Matt, Tia, Quinn & Addie

2010-12-03T01:16:00.000-08:00

I can't explain to you how excited I get when my plane touches down in Kansas City or St. Louis and I know I'm only two hours away from these two kiddos. On my last trip I had so many things to do that I only got to spend 4 hours in Columbia - the rest was spent at the lake for a great little photographers retreat and in Kansas City for a lighting workshop. I realized that despite taking lots of photos of these kids throughout the year I had never taken a real family photo of the four of them so we swept over to Hickman for 20 minutes for a mini-shoot. The first few are from hanging out with the kids at mom's house. Can't wait to see them over the holidays!

Quinn has loved playing in the back of the truck since he was about 2. He's so grown up compared to back then!

I'm rarely in photos with these kids so I had to get a couple ;)

Isn't she just perfection?

Love you guys.

{Newborn} : Alexander

2010-11-29T12:48:00.000-08:00

You may remember the sweet little girl in these photos from last year when I took her newborn photos. This year she is the big sister to little Alexander and they are definitely two of the cutest kids I've ever met. I was so thrilled when their parents called and asked for me to come back to San Fran to photograph their newest addition. Here are some favorites!

I love the look on Alexander's face as mom and dad share a kiss ;)

Had to squeeze Grandma in for one!

{Engaged}: Alicia & Jeff

2010-11-22T16:40:00.000-08:00

I met Alicia this past April when I was shooting her sister's wedding and was absolutely thrilled when she emailed to tell me that she had just gotten engaged and was hoping I could photograph her big day as well. It's always such a treat to work with families and friends for a second time. Alicia and Jeff will be getting married in just under a year and I can't wait until their day gets here. Below are some favorites from their engagement session last week here in Davis!

She's just so beautiful...and this is what we call the ability to "smize" :)

Jeff proposed at the Mondavi Winery so we had to get the name in the photo at the Mondavi center!

{Engaged}: Amanda & Chris

2010-11-14T19:36:00.000-08:00

I'm back from a whirlwind trip to Missouri and so excited to get to share this engagement session from last weekend. Amanda & Chris asked me to meet them in Amanda's home town of Tomales, California for their engagement photos and I've never been more smitten with a town. We strolled the blocks that makeup this adorable town with a population around 700 and I'm pretty sure every person that walked or drove by knew Amanda. I got to see where she played as a kid, where she worked in high school and even got to stop by and meet the fam. Getting to know these two a little better was so easy and fun and I'm counting down the days until their June wedding. Enjoy a few of my favorites and check back later this week for fun pics from my trip home!

World Series Champions!!!

2010-11-02T15:40:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to give a little shout out to the SF Giants - this year's World Series Champions! For the first 22 years of my life I didn't watch much baseball but after living with a huge baseball fan for 5 years I've definitely developed a love for the game. I shot these photos at Anya & Casey's engagement session earlier this year and thought they deserved some time at the top of the blog after the big win. It's been 56 years since the Giants won the World Series and it's the very first world series win for the city of San Francisco so we're all a little excited out here. Go GIANTS!!

{Married}: Katrina & Chris

2010-10-29T11:09:00.000-07:00

I could not have asked for a better wedding to wrap up my 2010 season. Katrina & Chris put on a gorgeous affair in Glendora for their closest friends and family. Hosted at their friend's private ranch, it was a night filled with beautiful toasts, fantastic weather, a stunning sunset, and lots of love (plus a Giants win!).

Chris & Katrina - I am so happy that you've found each other and that you make each other so happy. Getting to watch how much you are loved by your friends was really a treat and a true testament to just how wonderful you both are. I feel so, so lucky to have been a part of your day. Please come home with hundreds of photos to share from Argentina - I want to see every last one of them! Yours, ej.

Angelina did an amazing job on Katrina's hair and makeup. If you're in Southern CA, you should definitely give her a call!

They say it's good luck for it to rain on your wedding day. Whether or not that's true, impending rain is perfect for your wedding day photos! The light can't be beat!

He really likes her.

I loved these two. Right after I took this photo he says "Gracie just doesn't know how to dance."

Ralph & Nancy, can I shoot weddings at your home every weekend? Thanks.

{Engaged} : Maria & Eric

2010-10-28T18:39:00.001-07:00

I've been so lucky to shoot for so many old friends this year. Maria is probably one of the oldest - dating back to our days at the lovely West Jr High. When she called and asked if I would be available for her wedding I was thrilled. Last weekend I was down south for a wedding so I met up with Maria and Eric in their new home of Pasadena for some engagement photos. It was so good to catch up after all these years and get to see the boy she's so crazy about :) Here are some of my favorites from our time strolling around Pasadena's city hall!

p.s. - I'm now convinced that the light is just different in southern california.

somehow more glowy or something. i love it.

Can you say gorgeous??

{Married} : Anya & Casey

2010-10-22T08:28:00.000-07:00

Anya & Casey make each other happy. Anya is usually laughing at something Casey said and the look on Casey's face makes it clear just how much he adores her. This weekend they celebrated their wedding day with their closest family, friends, and the Giants game :) When Anya heard that game 2 of the NLCS would be on during her wedding she insisted that the country club find a way for her guests to watch it. That's a serious fan, my friends.

Anya & Casey, your day was perfect. Even the rain was perfect - it made for an intimate, cozy ceremony in by the fireplace where we all got to help you celebrate your future together. Thank you so much for inviting me to document it for you. It was such an enjoyable day - definitely one that I'll never forget. Yours, ej.

Love the fall theme!! Apples were everywhere!

Because everyone does a few push-ups as they are getting ready to help them relax, right? :)

Jessica, Anya's bridesmaid, getting teary over the idea that Anya is actually about to go get married!

So it may have rained all morning, and through the ceremony, but the rain knew it needed to be gone by 5:15 for some photos of these two. Thank you, rain. I really appreciate it.

I have never seen a denser fog in my life. It was actually a little creepy, but made for a fun photo!

{Married} : Lise & Justin

2010-10-19T01:24:00.000-07:00

Lise & Justin couldn't have put on a more relaxed, beautiful or fun event for their guests than they did this weekend at Hacienda de las Flores. From the stunning centerpieces (Justin's mom did well!!) to the delicious barbeque (pretty excited about making a return trip to Ludy's in Woodland!) to the absolutely adorable flower girls and ring bearers, their day had it all.

Lise & Justin, being a part of your day was a joy from start to finish. I loved helping to plan your day, shooting your engagement photos and watching you say "I do". Your relationship is so sweet and I can't wait to see what the future holds for you both. I trust you're giving each wine you taste a fair examination up in wine country...I expect a detailed report upon your return! Yours, ej.

I couldn't hear what they said from where I was standing but I feel like I could narrate here:
"What do you think?...Not too shabby yourself!!"

I love first looks give them a few moments to be alone after seeing each other for the very first time.

It was definitely a laid back, Northern California wedding but this shot and the one above make me feel like we're in the deep south for some reason and I kind of like it :)

Really hoping to get to photograph these future weddings:

Lise, I'm seriously jealous of your craftiness.

Lise with her proud mama.

Absolutely perfect wedding favors - homemade BBQ sauce! And some nice bling too ;)

After Justin & Lise's first dance, Lise celebrates having her first dance with her new husband.

I generally spill food on myself at least once a day. Having an excuse to wear a bib at a wedding for this BBQ feast was fantastic. I wish I could just bring it along to other affairs.

{Married} : Katie & Mike

2010-10-08T07:42:00.000-07:00

I adore Katie & Mike. From Katie's infectious laugh to the way Mike looks at Katie, I could photograph these two all day long. Last weekend I had the great honor of being a part of their wedding day and it couldn't have been more wonderful. My dear friend Jess Apostle came out to Cali to shoot the wedding with me and I am so grateful to have had such a great photographer and friend to work with. The wedding took place at the Anvil Vineyard & Ranch where the views of the Coastal Mountains completely make up for the windy drive it takes to get there. Thanks to Jess for coming with me and to Katie and Mike for being their amazing selves. Enjoy their photos.

As Mike waited for Katie before their first look he thought he should make some moves for the camera :)

but I love this one Jess caught of him just laughing...

Katie was stunning. Something super old Hollywood glam about her look. And those eyes. You'll see more of those.

The details were outstanding. Everywhere you looked there was another vase of gorgeous flowers. Below is Katie heading down to meet Mike for the first time.

Love this moment.

Love having a second shooter to capture the same moment from different spots. Jess' on the left, mine on the right.

Quite the vista for the ceremony!!

Love this shot from Jess of Mike crossing his fingers as Lili, their officiant, asked Katie's parents if they were welcoming Mike into their family.

Mike and his dad...

Mike is an artist and Katie is a perfectionist. Pretty much the perfect recipe for great wedding details!!

Such a great sunset that night!!

Congratulations, Katie & Mike!!

{Portraits} : Lily Dawson

2010-10-05T23:20:00.000-07:00

Lily Dawson is an old friend and an outstanding entrepreneur. After spending some time out here in California, Lily is back in Missouri running a business that specializes in handmade wrap bracelets that can take any outfit from bland to glam either as a bracelet, necklace, headband or more. I was thrilled to get to meet up with Lily and chat business and we figured it wouldn't hurt to get a few new shots of the businesswoman herself! Here is the fabulous Lily Dawson of Lily Dawson Designs! Go check out her website - the holidays are closer than you might think!!

{Family} : Kara, Scott, Syler & Jonah

2010-10-04T17:05:00.000-07:00

I loved getting to meet up with Kara, Scott, Syler & Jonah on my last trip home. Jonah is absolutely too much - all you have to do is say his name and his face lights up, he gets a huge grin across his face and the cutest little dimples appear on his cheeks. Syler wasn't quite as interested in having his photo taken but give any little boy the chance to play in a creek and climb on the columns and you'll make a new friend and capture some cute shots! I adored them both and it was great to chat with Kara and Scott. Thanks so much, you four, for letting me snap your photo!!

{Married} : Aubree & Ty

2010-10-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

It's been almost a year since we took Aubree & Ty's engagement photos and I was dying to see these two again. They are so cute together and are serious about having a good time. I loved hanging out with Aubree and her girls that morning and the party was an absolute blast. Now these two are lounging on the beaches of Jamaica and I wish them only the best for their future together. Congratulations, you two!!

Jordan, Aubree's flower girl, was in awe of Aubree. She worked diligently to keep Aubree's dress straightened and fanned out at all times :)

{Family} : Terra, Mark & Baby Adalyn

2010-09-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

I was at the library with Terra studying during college when her phone rang and she stepped out to answer it. She came back in to announce that Mark had called and asked her on a date.... fast-forward several years and this time Terra was getting in touch with me to photograph her and Mark's first baby! I was so thrilled to get to meet little Adalyn and snap some photos of their new family of three. She is absolutely precious and was totally down with the whole photo shoot - the sweet girl was awake the entire time and was completely content! What a doll. Congratulations, Terra & Mark! Your new addition is perfect!

{Happy Anniversary} : Megan & Jeremy

2010-09-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

I feel so lucky to have connected with and photographed so many old friends in the past few weeks. Megan and I were close friends in high school and backpacked around Europe together in college (does it really count as backpacking if it was a suitcase and the suitcase weighed more than you did?). Anyway, I think she is fabulous and was thrilled to attend her wedding to this handsome guy back in 2005. Since I was going to be in St Louis, Megan asked if we could get together and do some photos for their 5 year anniversary. Here are my favorite shots from our shoot. Congratulations, Megan and Jeremy, on 5 fabulous years!!

We were a little pressed for time since Jeremy had just arrived home from Nashville and was off to another meeting shortly after so I got to fulfill a goal of mine - to do an entire shoot on one square block! I loved finding good light and fun spaces on this little block in Benton Park!

{Married} : Lisa & Darrell

2010-09-25T00:18:00.000-07:00

Lisa & Darrell are darling together. They decided to see each other before the ceremony and as we were walking back up to the church Lisa said that seeing him made all her nerves go away. I love when couples are able to get a glimpse of one other in advance and be at ease for the rest of the day. I've known Lisa for years but reconnected with her last year when I shot her brother's wedding. It is so rewarding to photograph multiple weddings for one family, and I consider it an honor to be asked to come back again. Lisa and Darrell, I hope your honeymoon is treating you well. Your photos of the rainbow out over the ocean suggest you're having a perfect week. Congratulations, you two!!

Samantha, Lisa's daughter, could not be cuter. Here she is leading her mom out to Lisa & Darrell's first look.

Seeing each other for the first time often consists of excitement, tears, and fixing ties :)

Lisa kept claiming that she felt strange being so dressed up since she is typically pretty casual. She couldn't have been more beautiful on her wedding day.

The fam! What adorable kids.

Had to include a family pic with Katrina & Mike from last year!

Watching his bride walk down the aisle...

I love going back to Missouri to shoot weddings. However, when I am driving downtown for our portrait time and I hear over the radio "strong winds, large hail...please head to an interior room in your home" I get a little worried and miss storm-free California a bit :) But we made the best of our 15 minutes before the storm rolled in!

Seriously good cupcakes.

Grandma danced for about 1 minute the whole night. So glad I caught this shot!

This is a true Tiger fan!