Kenwood California, the destination for this week's wedding. I feel so privileged to partner with so many amazing vendors. When Orchard Avenue Events reached out to ask if I wanted to be apart of this wedding, I jumped at the opportunity. I arrived bright and early, about an hour before my scheduled start time. Whenever I film at a new venue, I like to arrive early enough to tour the entire property. The lovely Landmark Vineyard staff were kind enough to show me the various event spaces. Our bride and groom were to start getting ready at a house located a short drive away on the other end of the vineyard. While our groom, Mayhew, would eventually get dressed in a cottage connected to the tasting room, both were currently located at the house. I made my way over to the cottage and found Mayhew outside practicing his mother-son dance with his mother Catherine. Unfortunately, I hadn't yet unpacked my cameras, so I missed capturing this moment. After a brief introduction, I jokingly informed Mayhew he wasn't allowed to have any other camera-worthy moments without me being there. He showed me inside where I found our bride, Shirley, in the midst of her hair and makeup process. After an introduction, she had a bridesmaid show me where I could find her flat lay details and wedding dress. After capturing these details, I told Shirley Id be back shortly to capture her getting into the dress moment, but since we had some time left in the hair and makeup process, Id head over to capture Mayhew getting dressed. Back at the cottage, I grabbed some shots of Mayhew's suit, which featured some custom embroidery on the neck and cuffs of his dress shirt and some additional embroidery on his jacket. I love these small personalized details. With the help of his dad, also Mayhew, our groom got ready for the day ahead. As I wrapped up the final shots, I looked out across the vineyard and saw what I thought was a bride in her dress on the front porch of the house. After a short drive-over, my suspicion was confirmed. Shirley had gotten anxious and decided to get dressed. Anne-Clair, the photographer, had also arrived at that time and, like me, was briefly panicked when seeing Shirley already in her wedding dress. We both shared a laugh and asked Shirley if she wouldn't mind recreating the moment for our cameras. Mayhew soon arrived, and the two shared their first look and took some portraits. We headed back over to the main property to grab some additional family and wedding party photos. Being so close to the reception area, I also used the opportunity to capture Orchard Avenue Event's staff setting up the reception tables and ceremony site. I always love to grab this content. It offers the bride and groom some behind-the-scenes perspectives, and it also serves as great content to start the film with. Hidden away, the first bus of guests arrived. They made their way to the courtyard, signing into the guest book before making their way to the ceremony site. The couple opted to have a 3-piece band for their procession and cocktail hour. As the band played, the bridal party made their way down the aisle, followed by Shirley and her parents, Anne and Sam. The ceremony was officiated by their mutual friend, Scott, who was also responsible for their meeting. Scott crushed the ceremony, offering some unique words tying in the couple's professional careers as video game developers with some marriage advice. I highly recommend having an officiant that knows both the bride and groom personally. Following the ceremony, the marriage license was signed, and the couple made their way to grab some sunset photos. The sunset was truly magical, and we took full advantage of every second of it. After being introduced, the couple shared their first dance and gave a thank-you speech to their guests before sitting down for dinner. As the sun set, a few speeches were given. One of which was by the best man who created a custom crossword puzzle with clues and answers about the bride and groom. The couple cut their cake and made their way inside to start the party. After grabbing some shots of the dance floor, including an amazing dance off to Van Halen's Jump by Mayhew and one of the other guests, my night came to an end. Until next time, California!

Venue: Landmark Vineyards
​Coordination: Orchard Avenue Events
Photography: Anne-Clair Brun
DJ: Fog City Entertainment
Guitarist: Clay Bell
Rentals: Encore Event Rentals
Transportation: Pure Luxury Transportation
​Catering: Park Avenue Catering 
Floral: Vanda Floral Design 
​Cake: Flour and Bloom 
Makeup: Bella Bridal
​

Interested in having AZ Film Company film your big day? Get in Touch

Check out this other California Wedding

Le Rêve Estate and Vineyard. Our destination for today's wedding. It's so wonderful to partner with some of the best coordinators in the industry and to have the honor of being on their videographer shortlist. Huge thank you to Kendall Melissa Events for the recommendation! I arrived on property about an hour before my official coverage window to get a lay of the land. Whenever I'm filming at a new venue, I try to give myself some extra time to give the venue a proper tour. As I wondered around the sprawling estate, the beauty and the opportunity to create a truly special film were evident. While the wedding day would all take place at this one venue, the site offered exclusive areas for all the major parts of the day. There was a stunning colonial-style house for the bride and groom to get ready in, a beautiful ceremony barn in the middle of a lush garden for the ceremony, a larger barn for the dinner portion of the evening, and a smaller party barn for the cocktail and dancing portion of the reception. In addition, there were about a million places to capture portraits. From the lush garden to the ripe vines, the sprawling alfalfa fields, to the cherry blossom-filled orchard, the opportunities were endless! Excited, I made my way to the house to start filming the getting-ready moments. As I entered the home gate, I ran into my creative co-partner for this wedding, Katie with KM Photo. Prior to every wedding, I spend about an hour talking with my clients about their vision for their film and the events they have planned for their big day. When I joined our virtual meeting, I was unaware that Katie was also on the virtual call. I proceeded into my normal topics of conversation, taking over the meeting with all things video. After about 15 minutes, it was brought to my attention that Katie was also on the call, and I had completely taken over a meeting meant for both of us. Embarrassing. We joked about the mix-up in person for a few minutes before making our way inside to start coverage. Getting ready would be a bit backwards today as it was the groom on property to start things off. When I say this place was stunning, it was truly stunning. We guided Patrick into a private study where the lighting was just perfect. We ran him through the getting ready process, working his dad and best man into the moment. As we wrapped up, a bus arrived outside with our bride and coordinator onboard. I gave Kendall a hug and introduced myself to Katrina. We all made our way upstairs to start her getting ready process. As stunning as the downstairs was, the upstairs was even better. The large bridal suite let in tons of natural light, and the white walls didn't cast any unwanted hues on our bridal party. We walked Katrina through the process, working her mom and bridal party into the moment. Outside, Patrick patiently waited for his chance to see Katrina. The couple opted to have this moment private, so I left my microphones off. After their first look, the two shared their vows and worked through some couple and bridal party portraits. With the cherry blossoms falling in the background, my slow motion camera captured all the magic of the moment. Though the wedding day would take place on property, the different venues were spread out. After capturing the necessary content, I began my trek to the ceremony site on the other end of the property. I made my way through the garden and into the barn, where I was greeted by another familiar face, Bryan Greenwalt with Music and More DJ's. It had been several years since I had the privilege to work with Bryan, but I knew he was top-notch and a lot of fun. Kendall had put together a solid team for this wedding. As beautiful as the space was, it would offer a challenge for our cameras. The barn doors opened up to the bright white midday sun, and the interior was more intimately lit with warmer tungsten lighting. When pointing our cameras toward the doors for the procession, we would have to choose between setting our cameras up for the interior or exterior lighting. Katie opted for flash; I opted to take a slight angel shooting across the aisle rather than down it. One by one, the bridal party made their way down the aisle before the doors closed to welcome our bride. Knowing the blast of the white light wouldn't lead to the most appealing shot, I opted to shoot Patrick's reaction instead. Once Katrina was inside, I shifted my focus to her as she made her way down the isle. The ceremony was short and sweet and ended like all ceremonies do, with a kiss. Guests made their way to the first barn for cocktail hour as the couple captured some family photos at the ceremony site. I split time between the two spaces. Once the family photos were complete, it was time for the part of the day I was most excited for. The couple portrait session. Lucky for us, the venue provided us with a cart to get us to all the different sites on property. We started with the garden, then made our way to the orchard before ending in the alfalfa field right as the sun set. Magical. The couple made their way to the dinner barn, where all their guests were waiting. They shared their grand entrance and first dance before Katrina's grandfather blessed the meal and read a short poem. Following dinner, we transitioned back into the cocktail hour barn that had been transformed into a party space. The couple shared dances with their parents before the party really got underway. I ended up staying way past my coverage because this group really knew how to party! The night came to an end as I said my goodbyes to all of my industry friends. Fingers crossed I'll get to shoot this magical venue again soon. 

Venue: Le Rêve Estate and Vineyard
Coordination: Kendall Melissa Events
Photography: KM Photo
DJ: Music and More DJ's
Hair & Makeup: Polish & Pout
Catering: The Hidden Table
Floral: Jones Flowersmith
Tux: The Black Tux
Dress: Miosa Bride

​Interested in having AZ Film Company film your big day? Get in Touch

Check out this other California Wedding

If I could start every wedding I cover off with filming the rehearsal, I would. It's always so nice to meet everyone in a more casual setting, tour the venue, and capture all of the additional speeches that take place. When Matti asked if I was available the day before the wedding to cover the rehearsal, I jumped on the opportunity. I arrived at the Tygret family home. A few hours before the speeches were set to take place. In addition to the speeches, I wanted to capture detail shots of Matti, our bride's dress, and jewelry, freeing me up on the actual wedding day to focus on the other planned events. When I arrived, Matti and Brian were in the middle of taking photos with the photographer, Laurel. I introduced myself and then went to unpack my gear. Once they wrapped up with photos, Laurel and I got started capturing the details. We both share the mindset of being more candid camera people, and staged detail shots aren't our specialty. Back on the other side of the house, guests were fixing their plates and taking their seats for the main reason why I was here, the speeches. Though there were only four speeches in total, having the additional content for the couples feature film was vital. The next day my coverage started at Lost Dutchman State Park with a bit of a panic. Arriving early, I made my way to the gate of the park to find out the lot was full. I explained to the ranger that I was there to capture a wedding, to which I was informed that the permit only allows them to have a wedding; it doesn't necessarily give the couple access to the parking lot. The only problem was there was no parking within a mile of the venue. I made my way out to the road and called Matti... No answer. Panic began to set in. I called Brian, and thankfully he picked up. Through some negotiation, I was granted access to the property. I made my way to the assigned space and parked in one of the many open spaces available, not sure what that was all about. This was my first time at this stunning park and hopefully not my last. It was incredible. We guided Brian to a spot off the trail so the couple could share their first look and vows privately. Between the lighting, the words exchanged, and the iconic rocky face of Lost Dutchman as our backdrop, this would be a first look to remember. We spent the next hour taking some breathtaking photos before I parted ways to beat the couple back to the Tygret house. When I arrived, the backyard had been completely transformed from the night before. I grabbed my camera and began shooting details. Back at the house, it was time for the couples "getting ready" footage. Even though I was not a part of the real getting-ready moments, this is still very important footage for the progression of the film. Stories take time to develop, and starting the film off at the ceremony or first look doesn't allow the viewer to see the couple as individuals or hear the speeches of their guests talking about them as individuals. Fun fact: most weddings I film involve some level of recreation of the getting-ready moments. Guests began to arrive, and I made my way to the lawn to capture the moment. This too is important segue content to move the story from pre-ceremony to ceremony. Guests took their seats, and the ceremony was underway. The couple's friend Jordan officiated the wedding and mixed in some funny with some sappy notes. The couple then shared their public vows and a kiss and made their way back down the aisle as a married couple. Cocktail hour kicked off as the couple had a few more pictures to take with their families before joining in. I always highly recommend that the couple join cocktail hour. Guests took their seats as the couple was officially announced into the reception. They gave a quick thank-you speech before sharing their first dance together. The sun set and the party officially kicked off. This group was SO much fun on the dance floor. After some goodbyes, my night officially came to an end.

Interested in having AZ Film Company film your big day? Get in Touch
​
​Check out this other Arizona Wedding Video

The Plaza Resort, in Scottsdale, Arizona. The destination for our wedding today. As I make my way to the bridal suite, the other vendors are beginning to arrive. The Plaza has a beautiful outdoor ceremony site situated perfectly between the bride and groom's getting-ready suits. These kinds of details make our job as vendors so much easier. While some venues offer an on-premise getting-ready, ceremony, and reception option, most of the time these venues are spread out. Having the ability to film or photograph the ceremony site when there is a lull in getting ready is so nice. When I arrived, Emily was just starting her makeup process. I introduce myself and ask for her detail box for flat-lay shots. She points to the double doors, where the photographer duo was already underway, shooting the details. Brooke, the photographer, was super kind and allowed me to capture the details she had already laid out. After wrapping up the details, we grabbed the dress and made our way outside. The archway to the ceremony site made a perfect location for our dress. A familiar face was also setting up in the ceremony site. Damone, with We Got You Covered Entertainment, was setting up his audio equipment for the ceremony. I had the pleasure of meeting and working with Damone at another wedding a few weeks ago. As a videographer, you rely on the DJ to deliver clear audio during the reception, so it's always nice to see not only a familiar face but someone you know who is a reliable audio professional. While we chatted, Brooke finished up her shots with the dress. We made our way over to the groom's suite to start Jarod's getting-ready process. It didn't take long to realize this would be a super fun group to work with. We moved Jarod outside as his dad, Rod, and brother, JB, helped him into his suite. Once ready, his mom Kate pinned his boutonniere on. This is always a great way to get the mother of the bride on camera early on. After some portraits with the groomsmen, we made our way across the courtyard to the bridal suite. The room was a bit dark for this process, but just outside there was a beautiful shaded grass area perfect for these shots. Once Emily had stepped into her dress in private, she and her mom Laura made their way out of the bridal suite to finish the process. Once ready, she hid around the corner in anticipation for my favorite wedding moment, the father-daughter first look. The two took some time to soak up the moment before it was time for Emily to see her groom. Across the property, at the cactus garden, Jarod and Emily shared their first look. We grabbed some portraits before making our way back to the ceremony site for some bridal party and family photos. Guests began to arrive, and before too long, the ceremony was underway. The couple chose to have Emily's grandpa act as the flower girl, such a fun shakeup to the tradition. Emily and David then made their way down the aisle, and the exchange with Jarod was made. The wedding was officiated by their friend Nathan, who ran the couple through some of the typical Jewish wedding traditions. The ceremony ended with a kiss and the breaking of the glass, and the two made their way back up the aisle. From here, it was a bit of a race against the sun to get through the sunset portraits. Even though the Plaza doesn't offer traditional sunset locations on property, the epic sunset we had made the actual locations irrelevant. After wrapping up the portraits, we had just a few minutes to capture the stunning reception Jaclyn and her team at Laki Events had been tirelessly working on all day. While some extra time would have been appreciated to do it justice, it was time for the reception to start. The grand entrance went on without a glitch, and after a quick prayer, dinner was served. The typical traditions of speeches and formal dances took place, and the real party was officially underway. Another Jewish tradition called the Hora dance kicked off the dancing portion of the evening. In pairs, the parents, grandparents, and couple were hoisted into the air on chairs for this super-fun Jewish wedding tradition. The dancing didn't stop there; this group definitely knew how to party! The night came to a close, and so did my time at the Plaza. Until next time! 

Interested in having AZ Film Company film your big day? Get in Touch
​
​Check out this other Arizona Wedding Video

The Fairmont Princess Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. Our destination for this magical wedding day. My journey started the night before the wedding, when I was invited to attend and record the speeches at the rehearsal dinner. I always love being a part of the rehearsal dinner. Not only does the content make editing easier, but it's also a great opportunity to meet and become familiar with the guests and vendors I'll be working with at the wedding. The event could have passed for a reception, with stunning floral arrangements, food and beverages, and an amazing guitarist serenading the festivities. It was a great introduction to the magic to come. I arrived back at the resort the next morning to begin coverage. This resort was HUGE, and it was quite the trek to get to my starting location. The couple had reserved a pair of bungalows to get ready in. The lighting was magical; a thin cloud layer diffused the light perfectly. I started coverage, as I always do, with the bride. The room was buzzing with hair and makeup in full swing. As I set my bags down and prepared my camera, I met the lovely photographer Sarah, who I'd be working alongside for the day. The bride had left her details in another room just across the courtyard, so we made our way there. Knocking on the door, we were greeted by the bride's father, Mike. I quickly noticed a set of golf clubs and began chatting with him about the courses he planned to play on the trip. While this was going on, Sarah was kind enough to stage the details; photographers have a better eye for that anyway. Once details were shot, we made our way to the groom's room for Tommy's getting ready. The boys were busy watching college football, so we brought Tommy outside to get ready. He opted for a grey Canali suite with the wedding date custom-embroidered on the inner pocket. Always a great touch. We brought Tommy's dad, Tom, out to help with the final touches, as well as Tommy's two boys, Wise and Thomas, for their getting ready. This grandfather, father, and grandson getting ready moment was super special. Back with the bride, it was time for her to step into her dress. Accompanied by her sisters Sarah and Grace and mom Anne, our bride finalized her look for the evening. Outside, Mike waited patiently to see his daughter on the wedding day for the first time. The father-daughter first look is my absolute favorite wedding day tradition. After the tears were wiped away, it was time for our bride to show her dress to the rest of the bridal party. The final first look was to be shared with the couple. Tommy patiently waited for the arrival of his bride, and after a tap on the shoulder, the two shared a truly special moment with one another and their kids. I made my way to the ceremony site just down the hill, where I was met by the lovely planner Heather fromJ.Star Wedding Company. These girls put on an absolutely incredible wedding for our couple. Guests began to arrive, and one by one, the bridal party made their way down the isle. Vows were repeated, a unity candle was lit, and the couple shared their first kiss. In a race against the sun, we quickly set out to film sunset portraits on the golf course just behind the resort. Just in time! While the couple transitioned to their last photo spot, I broke away to film and set up for the reception. I opened the doors to the ballroom and was blown away by the level of detail Heather and her team had poured into the venue. It was stunning. I grabbed my camera and began filming. Guests began to take their seats, and our couple entered. They made their way to the dance floor and shared a first dance, followed by a dance with their parents. The Lucky Devils Band provided the music for the event and absolutely crushed it! The dance floor was packed all night. There was one last surprise in store for our couple. A send-off was organized, and guests made their way outside. Tommy and MaryAnne, along with their five kids, walked their way through the cheers of their guests, sharing a kiss for the cameras. What they didn't know was that Heather was on the phone with a crew of pyrotechnics on top of the resort's roof. The green light was given, and the sky lit up to the surprise of the couple, capping off a truly unforgettable night. 

Interested in having AZ Film Company film your big day? Get in Touch
​
​Check out this other Arizona Wedding Video

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.

Interested in having AZ Film Company film your big day? Get in Touch
​
​Check out this other Sedona Wedding Video

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. 

Interested in having AZ Film Company film your big day? Get in Touch

Check out this other Arizona Wedding

Scottsdale Arizona. Our location for this stunning wedding. There is truly something magical about the desert; however, that magic is extra special in the wintertime. I arrived early on this November morning to Troon North Country Club, our venue for the reception but also where our bride Kayla was getting her morning started. After grabbing some shots of the hair and makeup process, I made my way upstairs, where Megan, the photographer, was underway shooting the detail flat lays. I introduced myself, captured some of Megan's wonderful detail posing, and returned back downstairs to retrieve the wedding dress. The cloud cover offered a wonderful opportunity to film outdoors at a time when filming would otherwise be too bright. After wrapping up details, we searched for our groom, Jordan, who was upstairs dining with his groomsmen. After some introductions, Jordan gathered his suit and made his way back outside for his getting-ready shots with his dad, Dave. Once again, the cloud cover offered perfect diffusion for us to be able to film outdoors. Back downstairs, our bride was just finishing her hair and makeup process and was ready to put on her wedding gown. As she was laced up, just on the other side of the door, we could hear her bridesmaids eagerly awaiting the big reveal. Kayla stepped out, and the tears began to flow. It was time to make our way over to the second location of the day, Our Lady of Joy. I arrived at the church just as the guests started to trickle in. I quickly made my way inside to capture the space before the guests took their seats. This stunning church, located just down the road from the country club, offered tons of natural light, a rarity at other religious venues. Guests made their way inside and took their seats as the procession got underway. Kayla made her way down the isle at the arm of her brother. After two readings, the couple exchanged their vows and rings and were prayed over by the pastor. The two then shared their first kiss and made their way back down the isle. Outside guests gathered with bubbles in hand to create a truly magical departure for the couple. Cue the slow-motion shots! Back at Troon North, the cocktails began to pour and appetizers were shared as the sun set. For those who don't already know, Arizona sunsets are unmatched, and Mother Nature pulled out all the stops for this one. Guests made their way inside as the reception got underway. DJ Damone got things started as the couple made their grand entrance to the cheers of their guests and the light of sparklers. It was then time for the couple to share their first dance, a moment they had been practicing for months. Flawless. The party officially got underway after some additional dances with Jordan's parents and after sharing a slice of their wedding cake. This was a truly magical experience from start to finish. 

Interested in having AZ Film Company film your big day? Get in Touch

Check out this other Arizona Wedding

La Jolla, California. This seaside town would be our destination for this magical wedding day. I arrived early on a beautiful November day. The sun was out, a light breeze was blowing, and the smell of the ocean was in the air. I made my way over to the starting location for today's wedding. La Valencia Hotel. A picturesque hotel perched over the Pacific Ocean A fantastic venue in its own right, but just the starting location for our wedding day. I made my way down to the villa, where our bridal party was getting ready. When I knocked on the front door, I was greeted by a familiar face, Siobhan. I had filmed Siobhan and Kelly's wedding the year prior, and she was the one who recommended me to Jenna. I made my way into the suite and saw several familiar faces from the previous wedding. Jenna was in the middle of her hair and makeup process. After grabbing a few candids, I began where I always do: the details. The hotel offered several locations for the dress. However, conveniently located just outside the room was a mural with some colors I thought would work well with the dress and our starting location. I was soon joined by the photographer Natalie, and we joined forces to film the rest of the details. When we returned to the room, Jenna's hair and makeup had been completed, and it was time to get her into her dress. With the bridal party waiting, Jenna made her way into the room for the big reveal. With the help of her sister, Kelly, Jenna put the final details of her outfit together. The Museum of Contemporary Arts, the venue for the rest of the wedding day, was located just down the road from the hotel. Billy, our groom, was patiently waiting by one of the exhibits for the arrival of his bride. With the cameras in position and a tap on the shoulder from our bride, Billy got his first glimpse of his stunning soon-to-be wife, Jenna. Once the emotions began to settle, we made our way around the museum, grabbing some portrait shots of the couple. The sunlight peaking through the tinted windows of the museum truly made for some breathtaking imagery. Outside the bridal party and families gathered for their portraits, this is where I also got to meet the true star of the show, the couple's golden retriever, Enzo. Once portraits were wrapped up, guests began to arrive for the ceremony. Champagne in hand, they made their way to the courtyard in preparation for the procession to begin. The sun began to set as each bridal party member made their way down the isle. Today's ceremony was going to be truly stunning. Jenna, escorted by her father, Ken, made their way down the aisle, where Billy was patiently waiting. The two exchanged their heartfelt and lighthearted personal vows to one another before sharing their first kiss under the setting California sun. Once the ceremony had concluded, we had a choice to make. Do we stay for cocktail hour, or try to rush down to the beach for some epic sunset shots? Luckily, the couple chose the latter, and I was left speechless at the results of that decision. These were some of the most epic shots I have ever gotten. Upstairs, the transition into the reception was underway. The coordinator, Sabrina, had outdone herself with the details. The couple was introduced, shared their first dance, and had a dance with each of their respective parents. DJ Justin kicked off the dancing, and the party was underway. Having shot this group before the previous year, I knew it would be a wild one. My evening came to an end, as did my time in Southern California. Until next time! 

Interested in having AZ Film Company film your big day? Get in Touch

Check out this other California Wedding

Carmel California. This stunning seaside town set the stage for this incredible wedding. I arrived bright and early on Saturday morning. Kelsey informed me that the city of Carmel does not have addresses for their homes, she wasn't kidding. With a picture of the location and help from Google Maps satellites, I was able to find the home of Kelsey's grandparents, Bill and Sally. I noticed our bride had not made it to the house from her makeup location, so I patiently waited in the car outside. Within a minute or two, I was greeted by Sally, who had made her way out to investigate the suspicious car parked outside her stunning Carmel home. I introduced myself, and we chatted for a bit. She told me all about the area and the history of the homes in the neighborhood. She also casually brought up the fact that her husband, Bill, frequently plays at my number one bucket list golf course, Cyprus Point, located just minutes from their home. To say I was jealous was an understatement. Sally invited me inside to get started on filming the details Kelsey had dropped off the night before. Soon the first half of one of my favorite photo duos, Elisabeth, arrived to get started on photographing the details. Sally and Bill's home had perfect lighting to get our flat lay and dress shots. We heard a knock at the front door, and in walked our bride Kelsey, as well as her mom Kristin, dad Brent, and sister Katie. After formal introductions were shared, it was time to get our bride into her wedding dress. Katie and Kristen made quick work of getting Kelsey into her dress and jewelry. Brent then came into the room and shared my favorite wedding day moment, the father daughter first look, with Kelsey. It was then time to head to the church for the ceremony. Carmel Mission, our ceremony site for the day. This 250 year old Carmel icon offered so much natural beauty and character to the wedding day. The property had several amazing portrait locations as well as a courtyard to stage the first look. After the tears were wiped away, Kelsey and Nick shared their vows with each other. The vows were incredible, and as a filmmaker, I knew my job would be easy during editing because of them. Guest began to arrive, and before too long, our ceremony was underway. The two shared the vows they had recited earlier during their first look and a kiss to make things official. It was then time to move over to our reception venue, the Monterey Peninsula Country Club. I have had the true honor of filming at this location a few times in the past. Each time I step foot on the property, I am struck by the fact that a place so beautiful exists. I really have the best job ever. After some incredible portraits were taken, we moved inside to start the reception. During the bride and groom's thank you speech, Kelsey dedicated her bouquet to her mom, Kristen, for all the hard work she had poured into this wedding day. It's rare to see something I've never seen before at a wedding, but this was an incredibly sweet gesture. The couple shared their first dance, and the party was officially underway. My time in Monterey had come to an end. 

Interested in having AZ Film Company film your big day? Get in Touch
​

Check out this other California Wedding