CATHOLIC WEDDING AT SAINT FRANCES OF CABRINI | KELSEY AND MARCOS
Kelsey and Marcos came to me to photograph their catholic wedding at St. Frances o Cabrini. They wanted the ceremony photographed and also first looks with Kelsey’s father and brother and then Marcos. Their family is deeply involved in the church and Kelsey even went to school at St. Frances of Cabrini School years ago.
It was a special and meaningful intimate wedding with their closest friends and family and I was so honored to photograph it! Enjoy some images of the day!
Elopements: A romantic and adventurous way to get married
Are you tired of the same old traditional wedding? Do you and your partner crave something more adventurous and intimate? Look no further than elopements. Often associated with secrecy and rebellion, elopements have emerged as a beautiful and memorable option for those seeking something out of the ordinary. In this article, we will explore the allure, intimacy, and adventurous side of elopements. We will even provide tips on how to plan an elopement on a budget. Whether you’re looking for a unique experience, want to keep things intimate, or simply want to save money, elopements offer something for everyone. So why not consider this romantic and adventurous way to tie the knot and make your big day truly special?
The allure of elopements
For those considering elopements, the allure of a romantic and adventurous way to tie the knot is hard to resist. The intimate nature of such a special occasion is undeniable and provides a unique opportunity for couples to focus solely on each other. But what truly sets elopements apart is the freedom to create a personalized experience that reflects the couple’s relationship and personalities. From exchanging vows at a scenic outdoor location to enjoying a candlelit dinner together, elopements allow couples to celebrate their love in a way that feels authentic and true to them. So if you’re looking for a wedding that is both intimate and memorable, consider the allure of an elopement.
The intimacy of elopements
Although elopements have gained popularity for their simplicity and flexibility, their greatest appeal lies in the intimacy they offer. With a smaller guest list, couples can share their special day with only their nearest and dearest, making it a truly personal and meaningful event. The focus shifts entirely to the couple themselves, allowing them the space to express their love and commitment in a way that feels most authentic to them.
The intimate nature of elopements also means that couples can opt for unique and unconventional venues, exchanging vows at stunning natural locations or in cozy, offbeat settings that might not be possible in a more traditional wedding. The freedom to create a bespoke experience that reflects the couple’s style and personality is what makes elopements so appealing.
If you’re searching for a wedding that prioritizes the connection and love between you and your partner, then an elopement might be the perfect option. And for the adventurous couple, elopements can take on a whole new level of excitement.
The adventurous side of elopements
For couples who thrive on adventure, elopements offer an opportunity to take the plunge into something truly extraordinary. With no guests to worry about, there’s more room for spontaneity and adventure. Imagine saying “I do” atop a mountaintop, or exchanging vows on a secluded beach at sunset. Elopements can provide the chance to combine a wedding with an epic adventure, creating unforgettable memories in the process.
From hiking to a remote location for a mountaintop elopement to exploring a new city and saying “I do” in a unique setting, the options are endless. Adventurous couples can incorporate their love for the outdoors into their elopement, with possibilities like bungee jumping or skydiving to make the experience even more exciting
Not only can elopements provide a thrilling experience, but they can also be more budget-friendly than traditional weddings. For couples seeking a unique and adventurous option without breaking the bank, elopements can be the perfect solution.
Elopements on a budget
For couples seeking a romantic and adventurous way to tie the knot without the price tag of a traditional wedding, elopements can be a great option. Not only are they more intimate, but they can also be more budget-friendly as well. With the money you save on a large ceremony and reception, you can put that towards a dream honeymoon or use it to start building your life together.
There are several ways you can cut costs for your elopement without sacrificing the experience. For example, instead of renting a venue, consider having your ceremony at a public park or beach. You can save on decorating costs as well by taking advantage of the natural scenery.
Another option is to keep the guest list small or even have a completely private ceremony. This eliminates the need for catering, invitations, and other expenses associated with a large wedding. You can still share the experience with your loved ones by hiring a photographer or videographer to capture the moment.
With a little creativity and flexibility, you can plan a beautiful and affordable elopement. Now that you’re ready to start planning, here are some tips to help make your elopement everything you’ve dreamed of.
Tips for planning your elopement
With the rise of elopements as an attractive alternative to traditional weddings, many couples are opting for a private and intimate ceremony. But planning an elopement comes with its own set of challenges, from choosing the perfect location to ensuring the day runs smoothly. Here are some tips to help you plan a memorable elopement:
1. Decide on the location. Whether you want to exchange vows on a mountaintop or on a secluded beach, it’s important to choose a location that reflects your style and personality. Research different destinations and consider the weather, accessibility, and legal requirements.
2. Hire a wedding planner. While elopements are often seen as a DIY affair, hiring a wedding planner can help alleviate some of the stress and ensure that everything runs smoothly. A planner can help you with everything from finding the perfect location to booking vendors and handling logistics.
3. Invest in photography and videography. Since elopements are often intimate affairs, it’s important to capture the memories through high-quality photos and videos. Consider hiring a professional photographer and videographer to document the day, and make sure to communicate your vision and expectations.
4. Personalize the ceremony. Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate personal touches into the ceremony. Write your own vows, choose meaningful readings, or include a symbolic ritual that reflects your relationship.
5. Celebrate after the ceremony. While elopements are often private affairs, it’s still important to celebrate the occasion in your own way. Plan a romantic dinner, have a champagne toast, or even plan a small reception with close family and friends.
With a little planning and creativity, an elopement can be a beautiful and meaningful way to start your journey together as a couple. So go ahead and plan the elopement of your dreams, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
SUMMARY
In conclusion, elopements offer a unique and intimate way to tie the knot that is perfect for those seeking something out of the ordinary. With their allure, intimacy, and adventurous nature, elopements provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience that can be both memorable and meaningful. And the best part? Elopements can be done on a budget, making them an affordable option for those looking to save money.
As you plan your big day, consider the many benefits of an elopement and make it a truly special occasion. After all, as the saying goes, “Love doesn’t make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile.”
Monina Wright, the brilliant mind behind Moderne Beauty, entrusted me with the task of capturing captivating photos for her website and social media. She had a clear vision in mind – one that would reflect her expertise, thoughtfulness, and professionalism.
Our collaboration began with an in-depth consultation where we delved into the heart of her brand. Monina’s dedication to her family and the integral role her children played in her business served as the driving force behind our creative direction. We aimed to capture not only her maternal warmth but also her expertise.
During our photography session, we made it a priority to snap both headshots and lifestyle shots that would be versatile enough for her to use across various platforms. One standout image from our collection is the suitcase shot, a powerful representation that resonates particularly well with wedding beauty teams. It’s an image that can spark countless conversations and connections.
Moderne Beauty and Aesthetics stands out in the beauty industry for its commitment to delivering top-notch services at affordable prices. Their offerings include speed waxing, a process enhanced by the use of Beroni soft and hard wax to ensure a comfortable experience. The range of skincare treatments, from quick lunchtime facials to rejuvenating Chemical Peels, caters to diverse needs.
What sets Moderne Beauty apart is their dedication to quality. They not only provide an array of high-quality skincare products but also offer Custom Blend makeup. This makeup line provides a healthier alternative without compromising on the pigment and coverage that you’d expect from traditional high-end brands.
Moreover, Moderne Beauty goes the extra mile by offering on-location wedding and branding hair and makeup services. This added convenience ensures that clients can look and feel their best for those special occasions or when showcasing their personal brand.
In every aspect of her business, Monina Wright of Moderne Beauty exemplifies excellence and a deep-rooted commitment to her clients. It was a pleasure working with her to capture the essence of her brand through photography, and I am excited to see her continue to shine in the beauty industry.
Weddings are often thought of as grand celebrations, complete with elaborately decorated venues, fancy outfits, and a long list of guests. However, things are changing, and eloping is no longer just for those who rebel against traditional ceremonies. In fact, more and more couples are choosing to elope instead of throwing big weddings, and for good reason.
Eloping allows couples to prioritize their love and commitment to each other, without the pressure of conforming to societal expectations. In this article, we’ll explore why eloping may be the right choice for you, debunk common misconceptions about eloping, and provide practical tips on how to plan the perfect elopement.
Whether you’re a “rebel” or not, keep reading to discover why eloping can be a romantic and intimate way to celebrate your love.
Eloping is not just for the rebels
One of the biggest misconceptions about eloping is that it’s only for those who want to rebel against traditional ceremonies. However, as we’ve already discussed, eloping is becoming a more popular option for couples seeking a romantic and intimate celebration of their love.
Eloping allows couples to escape the stress and expense of planning a big wedding and focus on what really matters – their relationship. But despite its growing popularity, eloping still faces some negative stereotypes.
In the next section, we’ll debunk some of those myths and provide a more accurate picture of what eloping really entails.
Common misconceptions about eloping
One of the biggest misconceptions about eloping is that it’s only for those who want to rebel against traditional ceremonies. However, as we’ve already discussed, eloping is becoming a more popular option for couples seeking a romantic and intimate celebration of their love.
Getting married in a special place (Eloping) allows couples to escape the stress and expense of planning a big wedding and focus on what really matters – their relationship. But despite its growing popularity, eloping still faces some negative stereotypes.
One common misconception is that eloping is selfish or disrespectful to family and friends. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Eloping can still involve loved ones in meaningful ways, such as having a small ceremony with immediate family or hosting a reception to celebrate the couple’s union. Additionally, eloping can actually be a considerate choice for couples with family conflicts or financial limitations.
Another misconception is that eloping means sacrificing the beauty and tradition of a wedding. However, eloping can still incorporate meaningful traditions and romantic elements, such as exchanging vows in a stunning natural setting or having a personalized ceremony with a private officiant.
Finally, eloping allows couples to make their own rules and prioritize what truly matters to them instead of feeling pressured to conform to societal expectations.
Why eloping may be the right choice for you
Elopements and micro weddings have become a popular alternative to traditional weddings and for good reason. While some couples may feel a sense of obligation to have a big, fancy wedding, eloping allows for a more intimate and personal celebration. It allows couples to focus solely on each other and the commitment they are making, without any distractions or outside pressure.
Eloping can also be a more affordable option, as the expenses are typically much lower than a traditional wedding. This can be especially appealing for couples who want to invest that money into other areas of their future, such as purchasing a home or starting a family.
Another benefit to eloping is the flexibility it provides. With a traditional wedding, couples may feel the need to invite certain family members or friends, even if they don’t necessarily want them there. Eloping eliminates this pressure and allows couples to invite only those who truly matter and who they want to share their special day with.
Finally, elopements can be incredibly romantic. Whether it’s exchanging vows in a beautiful natural setting, or having a private ceremony with a personalized officiant, eloping allows couples to create a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
So if you’re considering eloping, know that you’re not alone and it may be the right choice for you. In the next section, we’ll provide helpful tips for planning your own intimate celebration.
Tips for planning an elopement
If you’ve decided that eloping is the perfect option for you, congratulations! Now, it’s time to start planning your intimate celebration. Here are a few tips to help make your elopement planning process as smooth and stress-free as possible:
Choose the perfect location: Whether it’s a mountaintop or a beach, pick a location that speaks to you and your partner. Consider the time of year, accessibility, and any necessary permits.
Find the right officiant: Your officiant should be someone who shares your values and beliefs. Consider hiring a professional, or ask a close friend or family member to become ordained.
Focus on your attire: Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you should skimp on style. Choose attire that makes you feel confident and comfortable, and don’t forget accessories like shoes, jewelry, and hairpieces.
Think about photography: You’ll want to capture this moment forever, so consider hiring a professional photographer to document your elopement.
Plan your celebration: Just because you’re not having a big wedding doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate. Plan a special dinner or activity for just the two of you, or consider a small reception with close friends and family.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to planning the perfect elopement. In the next section, we’ll explore how to involve your loved ones in your celebration, even if you’re eloping.
How to involve loved ones in your elopement
One of the biggest misconceptions about eloping is that it means excluding loved ones from your special day. However, this is far from the truth. There are many ways to involve your family and close friends in your elopement, whether it’s through small gestures or more elaborate plans.
Firstly, you could consider having a pre-elopement party or dinner with your loved ones. This will give them the opportunity to celebrate with you before your big day and feel included in the process. You could also have your loved ones write letters or create videos with messages of love and support to be read or watched on your wedding day.
Another way to involve your loved ones is to have a ceremony or reception after your elopement. You could have a small, intimate gathering where you share your photos and memories from your elopement and have a toast to your new life together. This could also be a great opportunity for your loved ones to give speeches or share well-wishes.
Finally, you could involve your loved ones in the planning process. Ask for their input on things like your wedding dress, venue, or even your vows. This will not only make them feel included, but it will also help to alleviate some of the stress that comes with planning a wedding.
While elopements are often thought of as a way to exclude loved ones, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t have to be that way. By involving your family and close friends in your elopement, you can still have a special and meaningful day without sacrificing the intimacy and romance that makes elopements so appealing.
With your loved ones involved, you’re ready to plan the perfect elopement. But before you get started, it’s important to understand the legal requirements for eloping.
Legal requirements for eloping
With your loved ones by your side, planning an elopement can be an exciting and personal experience. However, before you say your vows, it’s essential to understand the legal requirements for getting married. The good news is that eloping is often a simpler process than a traditional wedding, but it still involves some necessary steps.
Firstly, you need to obtain a marriage license. The requirements for obtaining a marriage license vary depending on the location, so it’s crucial to research the laws in the state or country that you plan to marry in. Typically, you’ll need to provide identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, and pay a fee to obtain your license. Some places may also have a waiting period before you can legally marry.
Secondly, you’ll need to have an officiant perform the ceremony and sign the marriage license. Again, the laws regarding who can legally marry couples vary depending on the location. In some places, a friend or family member can become ordained online and legally perform the ceremony, while other places require a licensed officiant.
Lastly, once the ceremony is complete, you need to ensure that the marriage license is filed correctly with the appropriate agency to make the marriage legally recognized. It’s important to know the deadline for filing, as failing to do so can result in an invalid marriage.
Understanding the legal requirements for eloping may seem overwhelming, but it’s an essential step in ensuring that your marriage is valid and recognized. By doing your research and staying organized, you can have a stress-free process and focus on enjoying your special day with your loved ones.
Summary
In conclusion, eloping is not just for rebels anymore. It is a viable option for anyone who wants to celebrate their love in a romantic and intimate way. Don’t let common misconceptions about eloping hold you back from considering it as a valid way to get married.
With careful planning and consideration, eloping can be the perfect choice for those who want to focus on the meaning of marriage rather than the spectacle of a wedding. Remember, your wedding day should be about you, your partner, and your love for each other.
Intimate Wedding in the Redwoods at Saratoga Springs | Francine + Chris
Hey, all you lovebirds and adventurers out there, listen up! Have I got a magical spot for your dream wedding! Picture this: Saratoga Springs, the enchanting wonderland where love stories come to life amidst the breathtaking redwood trees. And let me tell you, I’ve got the perfect proof of this fairytale-like setting!
It all started when Francine and Chris, decided to tie the knot in this woodland paradise. They stumbled upon my camera-wielding wizardry, and oh boy, it was a match made in photography heaven! We instantly hit it off, and I knew this was going to be one epic celebration of love.
Now, let’s rewind a bit to their engagement session, and believe me, it was pure awesomeness! We whisked away to the Japanese Friendship Garden in the sunny haven of San Jose, California. Laughter echoed among the green goodness, and smiles shone brighter than the sun! Francine and Chris, the epitome of fun-loving and easy-going, couldn’t get enough of each other – they were like two peas in a pod, a match made by the photography gods!
So, why should you choose Saratoga Springs and its towering redwood guardians for your own love fest? Let me tell you, it’s not just a place; it’s a magical realm where dreams unfold. Imagine walking down the aisle, surrounded by the majestic grandeur of ancient redwood trees, as if nature itself is applauding your love story!
Your wedding album will be a treasure trove of unforgettable moments – the joy in your eyes, the laughter shared, and the love that sparkles like stars in the night sky. With me, capturing every heartbeat, every hug, and every happy tear, you’ll relive those cherished memories for generations to come.
So, all you adventurous souls seeking a fairy tale celebration, look no further! Francine and Chris even included nature and the redwood trees in their ceremony that was so meaningful to them and their friends and family. Get ready to immerse yourselves in the beauty of Saratoga Springs, hand in hand with your one true love, as you begin the most extraordinary chapter of your lives.
Are you ready to dance beneath the redwood canopies and say “I do” amidst nature’s own confetti of fallen leaves? Then, my dear friends, let’s make some magic together and turn your wedding dreams into reality! Your love story deserves nothing less than the enchantment of Saratoga Springs! 🌳💕📸
How They Met
Chris and Francine met at work way back in 2012. They were both working in the Manufacturing, Science & Technology department at a pharmaceutical company in the Cleveland Metro area. Chris was a Chemical Engineer and Francine was on the Project Management team.
Where They Got Engaged
It was just another typical day, except that Chris and Francine had come to the decision they wanted to get married. So they planned a Valentine’s Date that started with going ring shopping and they finished the date at a romantic Valeintine’s dinner finishing the evening going to sleep as an engaged couple! What Three Things Do They Most Love To Do Together
Enjoying good food + drink, especially Sushi Omakase Restaurant
Nerdy stuff like watching anime and attend conventions
Playing video games and board games with friends (their cake topper is a real gem
Saratoga Springs (Saratoga, California)
Imagine your perfect wedding day nestled among a spectacular natural outdoor setting with fresh air, natural creeks, and soaring redwoods. Saratoga Springs provides a full-service wedding experience that couples and guests will enjoy from start to end. Their all-outdoor venue provides everything you could dream of-stunning natural beauty, convenient location, and mouth-watering catering.
They also provide an amazing catering team to create the perfect menu for couples’ special day. Providing a full service packages make the catering process easy and delicious!
Soft Romantic + Minimalistic Wedding at Viansa Winery in Sonoma | Kassandra + Kevin
Kassandra’s sister Sophia and my youngest daughter are besties. Still, I never assumed I’d be their photographer as couples want images and styles that they want. When Sophia called to ask me to schedule her sister’s engagement session (as a MOH duty), I was thrilled!! I had never met Kassi prior, although I’ve heard so much about her. And, as you’ll see from the photographs, those sisters and momma look so much alike — it reminds me of my daughters and me.
Engagement Session
Upon arrival for the engagement session, the newly engaged Kassi and Kevin had that buzz and excitement of taking photos to document their engagement and this season of life. I really enjoyed seeing that they had an amazing connection and I don’t just mean “finishing each other’s sentences” but that look and knowing nod when they were in agreement over something. Their love permeated their engagement session (you can view that here). Just wait for their wedding though because that was truly another level!
Kassi and Kevin brought their fur babies Kuzko and Lucky to the engagement session and it was no surprise that they were going to bring them to their wedding also. For those that don’t know me, I LOVE having dogs at sessions and weddings!!!
As Kassi and Kevin are such amazing dog parents who thought of their fur babies’ best interests and comfort, they hired an amazing company that took care of the pooches and brought them for pictures + the ceremony ensuring they were well taken care of.
Finding The Venue
Kassi told me that when she went looking in Sonoma for a venue, there was no doubt when she came across Viansa. It has old-world Italian charm and breathtaking grounds on top of a hill with a view for miles. This photographer’s heart burst with excitement!
Loved Working With Them!
I have to say that over these 14 years of photographing weddings, I have never had a bride who truly was chill about everything. She really just focused on her future husband (her best friend since the first semester of college) and becoming his wife.
Case in point: As she was getting ready for the first look, I asked if she had a towel for the bouquet as it’s always dripping (gotta keep that bouquet fresh in a vase of water). She pointed to the coffee table and said you can use that. It’s from our florist. It was a washcloth with a ribbon and a sticker. She remarked at how thoughtful it was of the florist to include it. I said the flowers on the chuppah look amazing like your bouquet. Then she said, “I knew they would. I told the florist to just be creative and do what she wants. She’s the expert.” Wow!
They Danced The Night Away
The couple closed out the wedding as they started the reception dancing literally til the last second. They actually were dancing the entire reception after dinner. So much so that their chairs were removed from the sweetheart table. No need for chairs – they danced the night away then made their way through all of their closest family and friends down the windy stairs to an awaiting limo to carry them away!
Every single detail of the wedding, as well as the whole look of the wedding, was perfection!
How They Met
As so many couples do, they met in college through mutual friends. Kassi’s friend was roommates with Kevin’s friend.
Kassi told me that they both remember meeting differently. She was honest to point out that she may have had a bit too much of an adult beverage at the time of their initial meeting 😜 . This isn’t surprising. Many couples of mine have slightly different stories than my husband and I do. Our memory is as unique as we are and hangs on to certain details but not others.
It doesn’t really even matter whose story is accurate as they started hanging out and never stopped!
Where They Got Engaged
Kevin took Kassi to a viewpoint near the college that they used to go to their senior year (beginning of the pandemic). He brought snacks.
In fact, he brought the very same snacks that they ate the first time they ever hung out. Talk about thoughtful!
But he went even more personal and before this date, he created a customized storybook. He used that customized storybook to help with his proposal. Kassi obvi said yes!
Their Most Favorite Date?
Their favorite dates when they started dating were all of their late-night trips to Mels Diner in Walnut Creek. If Kassi was sad, they were celebrating, or they just wanted a snack – Mels Diner was their go-to favorite place.
Their favorite meal was milkshakes and sharing cheese fries together and laughed the night away.
What Three Things Do They Most Love To Do Together
Walking their dogs Kuzko and Lucky together as a family
Going to the beach
Driving up to Tahoe!
Viansa Winery
4the Generation Family-Run Winery: Founded in 1990 by Sam & Vicki Sebastiani, Viansa is an ode to the Sebastiani family’s deep roots in both Tuscany and the Sonoma Valley. Now under the management of sons Chris and Jon, Viansa continues to be a standout destination for Italian varietal wines and warm hospitality.
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