Steven and Melanie's Franciscan Gardens Wedding

As much as we hope it will, life never goes as planned. Steven and Melanie know this very well, but roll with the punches better than any bride and groom I’ve met. Their wedding date was originally set to be in July, but Steven unexpectedly got word that he was set to deploy with the United States Army before their wedding date. Deep breaths were taken in and let out slowly, and phone calls were made. Lucky for me, I was still available on the date in May that they landed on with Franciscan Gardens. We both breathed a sigh of relief knowing everything was going to work out and I would get to be there to document their Avengers themed wedding day.

Steven and Melanie are some of the “good ones”. By that, I mean, they go above and beyond to care for those around them and they have the gift of making others feel how important they are to them. I met them back in December when we did their engagement shoot and I caught a glimpse of their love as I heard their story. As high school sweethearts, they’ve weathered quite a bit together… everything from the changes they went through transitioning from high school to adulthood, to learning to love one another over long distances as they pursued their separate dreams. They’ve put their friendship and their love to the test over and over, and what a great duo they make! I was SO excited to photograph their wedding, and on a perfect day in May, these two tied the knot (literally, they did a Celtic Hand Binding during their ceremony) in front of everyone they love. As I write this, they are gearing up for deployment and will continue on to new international adventures together as husband and wife! Congratulations, you two…. I’m so proud of you and I’m so honored to be sharing these images you allowed me to capture of your day…. Enjoy!

The new Avengers!

Quick story…. as we were walking back to the venue after taking some photos in old San Juan Capistrano, we passed by two grandparents with their grandkids. The little girl took one look at Melanie in her wedding dress and her jaw literally dropped in awe. That’s how gorgeous Melanie looked! So cute!!I found this image in my 2nd shooter’s images and I had to laugh. PHOTO BOMB!!