When I received an inquiry to film a wedding where I would be the only person in attendance, I was intrigued. Elopements typically consist of the couple's closest friends and family members, but when Taylor and Kevin informed me of their intentions to elope alone, I knew it would be an opportunity to create something truly special. On the phone with the couple, I pitched the idea of creating a film about their love story, going beyond the confines of the wedding day. Taylor and Kevin approved, and so began the collaborative brainstorming process of creating a storyline and film schedule. We landed on the idea of splitting the filming process into two days. The first day would consist of the ceremony and portrait session in Sedona. The second day would be a combination of filming their love story and spending an evening with their closest friends and family. I arrived in Sedona bright and early to meet the couple at an AirB&B they had rented for the weekend. The property was stunning, with several beautiful options for filming the day's events. Inside, the couple was partaking in one of their favorite activities, sharing a cup of coffee together. Not wanting to miss a moment, I quickly set up the camera and began recording. After some general chitchat, Taylor made her way upstairs to change into her wedding gown as Kevin wrapped up preparing his suite. I noticed some instruments in the dining area and jokingly challenged Kevin to create a song for the camera. To my surprise, he did just that. It's always awesome to be able to incorporate the couple's passions into their films. Upstairs, Taylor had finished putting her wedding gown on and needed a hand zipping the back. Being the only one there besides the groom, I set down my camera to give her a hand. Outside, Kevin patiently waited for his bride's arrival. Taylor made her way out the patio door down to where Kevin was positioned. The two shared their first look, wiped away the tears, and snapped a few photos. Upstairs, the officiant had arrived to wed the couple. Typically, this is when I have to set up cameras, prepare audio, and get ready for the procession. Not today. After the couple was set, we immediately got underway with the ceremony. Not having to worry about the guests ability to see was a life-changing experience. The two shared their personal vows, rings, I do's., and a kiss. It was now time for another first for me: to sign as the witness to their union. SO cool! We spent the rest of the afternoon traveling around to some of Sedona's most scenic and iconic locations. The night was capped off with a dinner by a personal chef Kevin had hired for the occasion. A perfect conclusion to a magical day. This is typically where the story would end for me; however, this wasn't a typical wedding. A few weeks later, I arrived at the couple's home to capture their love story. I started the day off by conducting interviews with the two, asking questions about dating, falling in love, and generally the major events leading to their wedding day. We then set out for some of their favorite spots around town. We grabbed coffee, went to a record store, took their pup on a walk, and recreated their first few dates. To be able to show the full love story of a couple in one of my films was so rewarding. Back at home, guests began to arrive for dinner. This event would serve as the "reception" for their wedding. The group sat around exchanging stories, wisdom, and a few glasses of wine before making their way outside for a candlelit dinner. My evening concluded with some speeches and farewells. This film I knew would be special.

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Phoenix, Arizona. Back home for the wedding of Alicia and Michael. I set out on this Tuesday morning to a venue I have not yet had the privilege to film at. The Landmark, a historic building built in the 1920s, is listed as a historical site in the city of Phoenix. I love a venue with some character! I arrived shortly before our bride and groom to get a lay of the land. I was greeted by staff who graciously showed me the different locations where the important events of the day would be taking place. As my tour ended, Alicia was arriving. I introduced myself, and she passed along her detail box so I could get started with my coverage. I always ask my brides to put together a box of important details; these details include stationary, vow books, rings, jewelry, and sometimes even some florals. I began my posing as the photo duo arrived on location. I introduced myself to my fellow camera-wielding friends and wrapped up my detail coverage. I made my way downstairs, where our bridal party was stationed, to retrieve the dress. While downstairs, I noticed a pair of custom shoes sitting on the table with scenes from what looked like a Pixar film painted on them. Alicia told me the story of how this Pixar short, The Paperman, had become an important part of their story. Little did I know there would be several other references to this short film throughout the day. After filming the dress, it was time for Alicia to get ready. Helped by her mother Laurie, daughter Savanah, and maid of honor Kelsey, our bride slipped into her stunning dress. Mark, our bride's father, was invited in to see his daughter all ready to be married. This is known as the father-daughter first look, and it's probably my favorite wedding day tradition. Alicia gifted her parents monogramed handkerchiefs and made her way upstairs, where Michael was patiently waiting to exchange his vows. Without peeking around the door between the two, the couple shared their personal vows with one another before being tucked away for the ceremony. The guests began to arrive to the sound of a live violinist the couple had hired for the day. Once seated, Michael made his way out the front door of the landmark and greeted the officiant, also Michael, at the alter. After the bridesmaids, adorable flower girl, and ring barrier made their way down the isle, guests stood to their feet to welcome the bride. Escorted by her daughter Savannah and father Mark, Alicia made her way to her groom. The couple opted to perform a glass-blowing ceremony where Michael, Alicia, and Savannah poured pieces of colored glass into a vase with the intention of having the fragments melted into a solid piece at a later time. It's not often I see something new during a wedding ceremony, but this was a really cool touch! Rings were exchanged, and the couple shared their first kiss. As they made their way down the isle, guests threw paper airplanes—another reference to the Pixar short and a really cool visual for slow motion footage! The couple signed their license and made their way back outside to snap some pictures. Guest enjoyed cocktails in the courtyard before making their way inside for dinner. Our couple was announced to the roar of their guests before taking a seat at the sweetheart table. Dinner was enjoyed, and toasts were shared before guests headed back out to the courtyard for dancing. The night came to a close with a grand exit by the couple under the glow of sparklers provided by their guests. A perfect close to this beautiful weekday wedding. 

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