Ralissa: Married at Walnut Grove

This past Friday, Melissa and Ray were married at Walnut Grove with their closest friends and family.  (Friends and family may see all images online HERE)  While I was walking around, I found a perfect little green walnut on the ground for the ring shot.Los Angles Wedding Photography

The day was sunny and hot in Moorpark, as Melissa started getting ready in her bridal cabin.

Walnut Grove Tierra Rejada Ranch Wedding Photography

I think she was kinda nervous when I arrived.  I took this picture of her after she read her vows.  Then right before the first look, she had a huge smile on her face!  She could not wait to see Ray.

Sherri Johnson Wedding Photography

orange blue wedding colors

For the ceremony site, Melissa decorated the trees with DIY fabric balls, and lined the isle with rose petals.

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Walnut Grove Tierra Rejada Ranch Wedding Photography

After the ceremony, we took some romantic photos for a few minutes, while guests were having cocktails.

Sherri Johnson Wedding Photography

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wedding cupcakes

Tables were named after their favorite wines.

Florist: The Exotic Green Garden

Walnut Grove Tierra Rejada Ranch Wedding Photography

Of course, what wedding is complete with out a embarrassing best man speech?  What was said will remain a secret to those who attended.  But all I’ll say for now is that it was embarrassing for Ray!

Southern California Wedding Photographer

Lots of twinkling lights were strung from the trees above the reception area.

Walnut Grove Tierra Rejada Ranch Wedding Photography

Walnut Grove Tierra Rejada Ranch Wedding Photography

Last but not least, a couple shots behind the scenes of me shooting, scouting, and being silly.SherriJ Wedding Photography

Venue: Walnut Grove at Tierra Rejada Ranch
Day Of Planner: Michele Spring of Mia Bella Weddings
Photography: SherriJ Photography
Florist: The Exotic Green Garden
Hair: Stacy Godwin
Makeup: Adam Winter

UPDATE September 20th, 2011: This wedding has been published on California Wedding Wave.  CLICK HERE to see the feature!

Monina + Matt: Engagement in Malibu

Last night, I had  a great time hanging with Monina and Matt, my awesome August couple.  They both met 6+ years ago during guitar classes and have been inseparable ever since.   They’re getting married at Calamigos Equestrian in Burbank, and plan on including many personal touches to their wedding!

Malibu Engagement Photographer

Malibu Engagement Photographer

Victoria & Tony’s Engagement: Santa Monica Pier

I met Victoria and Tony last week, as they started planning their April wedding.  It so happens, we’re both getting married at Calamigos Ranch!  With similar tastes and styles, Victoria wasn’t hesitant booking.  She pretty much inquired, consulted, and decided to book within 72 hours!  I guess, when you know, you know… and I’m so glad to be a part of their wedding day plans!  On Friday, we did their fun engagement shoot at Santa Monica Pier.   Victoria brought a couple of props and we had a great time exploring.  I think this first picture pretty much sums up their playful spirit!  =)

Santa Monica Wedding Photographer

Santa Monica pier engagement

Santa Monica pier lifestyle photoshoot

The first outfit matched their school spirit.  Blue and gold for UCLA!

Santa Monica pier engagement

Los Angles Wedding Photographer

Santa Monica pier engagement

Reagan & Ken’s Wedding: Sherwood Country Club, Malibu

Reagan and Ken celebrated their marriage this past weekend with a double wedding.  On Friday, they had an intimate  family ceremony at Our Lady of Malibu.  Before their family dinner on the Malibu Pier, we had some time for a quick photoshoot at the beach.

Malibu wedding Photographer

It kinda reminds me of their engagement session from back in September.  Reagan wore her mother’s altered wedding dress; her favorite part of the new design was the deep V back.

Malibu wedding Photographer

On Saturday, they continued the celebration at Sherwood Country Club in Malibu for a more formal ceremony followed by reception.

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As the ladies were getting ready, I took some detail shots.  The girls giggled at the “Doll-sized” corset.

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Los Angles Wedding Photography

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Family formal shots were taken right at the ceremony site.  Some advice I give all my couples, is to write a list of family members they’d like in the family formal pictures, and then give that list to someone in the bridal party.  Reagan did and appointed her most organized bridesmaid.  I couldn’t believe it when we were done with ALL of the family formal pictures in about 10 minutes!!  Actually, I can believe it.  It really pays to be prepared.

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With family formals done quickly, we had extra time to photograph the bridal party in different locations, including the front of the site.

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Taking a romantic golf cart ride to our photo spot!

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The pathway leading to the picturesque waterfall is lined with thick rose trees on both sides.

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I love Reagan’s veil.  I think it was taller than me with my arm lifted high!

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A special part of dinner, was a coffee station with the most AMAZING drinks!  Pictured on the right is Jenna Armstrong, superstar assistant and 2nd shooter!  =)

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Location: Sherwood Country Club, Malibu
Photography: Sherri J Photography
Day-Of Coordinator: Peggy Shevlin Event Specialist
Ceremony and Reception Music: The Ho-Dads, Bob Schuster
Cake Baker and Decorator: LaStarr Cakes & Co., Starr
Florist: Britica Designs, Bianca Landworth
Calligraphy: First Impressions Designs (bride’s personal company!)
Hair and Make-Up: T.E.A.M. Hair and Make-Up, Mar

Update: This wedding has been published on Hind Sight Bride! Feb 20, 2012