Topanga Canyon Engagement | Brittany & Ryan

We started 2021 with a bang and met with Brittany and Ryan to capture their Topanga Canyon engagement shoot. We tossed ideas around to find something that fit their style as well as the vibe they were for. They rented a cabin for the weekend that doubled as a romantic getaway for Brittany’s birthday and our shoot location.

While the two prepared their outfits and unloaded their pup, Bentley, and I methodically walked the property looking for beautiful light. Brittany stepped out of the cabin, rocking an open-back white satin dress paired with white open-toe heels. Meanwhile, Ryan donned a cuffed-sleeved white button-up, navy trousers, and a pair of deep brown leather chukka boots.

The trick to capturing the natural moments and expressions of my couples is to just let them be themselves. Rather than posing them, I’ve found greater success in giving direction to evoke a certain look or mood. An example of this would be directing a scene in a movie. Giving them certain things to think about or the act they’re performing results in the most organic images. This could be as simple as walking hand-in-hand, leading one another down a path, or pulling each other in tight and whispering something into the other person’s ear that will make them smile.

We found a beautiful Bohemian-styled hammock that was tied between two trees. This made for a great first location and for the two to get comfy in front of the camera. The two have such palpable chemistry that getting them used to my camera took no time at all. Soon after we headed to our next location and kept chasing that beautiful, golden light.

Ending the Evening In Style

Ryan brought a surprise Vespa for the shoot that I knew would make for some stunning shots. We brought it to a hilltop for the last few minutes of sunlight.

This combination of sophisticated, timeless styles just can’t be beaten.

Now that’s what we call a proper exit!

Finally, Bentley got Mom and Dad back from the day’s activities and had them all to himself.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab

Dress | Park and Fifth

Casa Romantica Wedding | Cheryl + Drew

Casa Romantica Wedding

This Casa Romantica wedding was one of the highlights of 2019! Cheryl and Drew married on a warm summer day at the historic cultural center overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Family and friends gathered with the couple alfresco-style and celebrated late into the night.

Cheryl donned a Galia Lahav dress with a plunging neckline and open back, crocheted with antique lace. In addition, she paired the dress with cream heels from Jimmy Choo. Cheryl’s bridesmaids wore an assortment of ivory dresses complimented by bouquets filled with palms, white roses, and greenery.

First Look & Ceremony

Cheryl and Drew chose to have a first look in the property’s courtyard before the ceremony. Drew welcomed his bride-to-be with tears of joy and open arms. Following the first look, we headed to the front of the property to meet the rest of the bridal party. We utilized the classic keyhole door and terracotta roof as our backdrop. Guests soon began to arrive so Cheryl tucked herself away, and once everyone was seated and in place, the ceremony soon began. Cheryl was escorted down the aisle by both her mother and father while Drew eagerly awaited his bride with a smile from ear to ear. The couple exchanged handwritten vows while overlooking the coast.

Reception

After the ceremony, everyone headed indoors for some dancing, fresh oysters, and tropical drinks for cocktail hour. Meanwhile, the reception space in the courtyard was getting finalized by Cortney and her team. The sweetheart table was adorned with wicker peacock chairs for the bride and groom and set beneath a floral arch. There were long communal guest tables befitted with white florals and gorgeous deep greenery. The place settings were set with green velvet bows and illuminated with candlelight.

Guests looked on in adoration as Cheryl and Drew enjoyed their first dance in the warm sunlight of the afternoon. Cheryl loved every minute of Drew’s signature dance moves.

Family and friends gave heartfelt speeches during dinner.

Portraits at Golden Hour

We headed out for the last few minutes of daylight to capture portraits after dinner ended. Cheryl and Drew have such natural, palpable chemistry that photographing them is a breeze! They embraced one another during their first sunset together as husband and wife.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Planning | Courtney Helaine Weddings

Venue | Casa Romantica

Videography | Memory Machine Films

Catering | Sundried Tomato Bistro

DJ | Vox DJ’s

Dress | Galia Lahav

Bride’s Shoes | Jimmy Choo

Film Lab | Indie Film Lab

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Botanical Garden Engagement | Hannah + Vaughn

Botanical Garden Engagement

I had the pleasure of capturing this stunning botanical garden engagement shoot as my last session of 2018. I’m so happy I did because this turned out to be one of my favorite shoots of the year!

I met with Hannah and Vaughn on a warm afternoon and walked the grounds together taking photos. As we walked, we found beautiful light and marveled at all of the different gardens. You might even think you were transported to the jungle or the desert because of how beautifully designed each location is.

Hannah and Vaugh’s outfits both complimented each other and balanced perfectly with the natural color scheme of the property. They both looked timeless! These two have such natural chemistry and laid-back attitudes that working with them is a dream. You can really capture magic when your couples relax and trust in your vision.

We made our way through the different gardens, making sure not to miss anything. I always gravitate toward desert landscapes; there’s something about the golden tones of the sand and the colors of cacti that I just love.

Throughout our session, we captured a ton of belly laughs, kisses, and soft embraces. This allowed us to get a great variety in their photos. While we walked from one location to another, we chatted about their wedding plans in Palm Springs later this year and the fact that we live just around the corner from one another. So while I gave them recommendations for the wedding day they gave me a great new spot in our neighborhood to grab bagels in the morning.

We ended the session just as the sun set behind the trees. We captured some final images with the two dancing and an epic “lift and kiss”. I had the most amazing time capturing their botanical garden engagement session and am absolutely giddy about photographing their wedding later this year.

Lab | Richard Photo Lab

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Greystone Mansion Wedding Beverly Hills | Mashan + Jamie

Greystone Mansion Wedding in Beverly Hills

Mashan and Jamie chose to forgo a local celebration in Atlanta. Instead, they planned a stunning destination wedding at Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills.

I had admired this historic estate for years. I had seen countless weddings photographed along its iconic cypress walk. Still, until I received Mashan’s email, I had only dreamed of documenting a celebration here myself.

Perched above Los Angeles, Greystone Mansion offers sweeping 180-degree views of downtown LA. Its historic architecture, manicured gardens, and European elegance create an unforgettable setting for an intimate wedding.

Randy of Randy Fuhrman Events planned the day flawlessly. Soft white and blush florals complemented the estate’s timeless stone façade.

Getting Ready & First Look at Greystone Mansion

The bridesmaids wore off-the-shoulder blush dresses. Meanwhile, the groomsmen opted for tailored navy suits, which added a refined contrast.

Jamie waited eagerly for their first look. At the same time, Mashan circled the koi pond with a smile. She gently tapped Jamie on the shoulder, and emotion immediately filled the air. After a few happy tears, we gathered family members for formal portraits.

Soon after, we made our way to the iconic cypress walk. The bridal party strolled along the stone pathway, laughing and soaking in the moment. The symmetry of the trees created a dramatic and elegant backdrop for portraits.

Ceremony & Cocktail Hour at Greystone Mansion

As guests arrived, they stopped at a charming beverage station. Fresh lemonade, sun tea, and spa water offered a refreshing start to the afternoon. In addition, the couple thoughtfully provided parasols to shield guests from the California sun.

Each member of the bridal party walked down the aisle to live harp music. The ceremony felt both romantic and timeless.

Following the vows, guests transitioned to cocktail hour on the terrace. Hors d’oeuvres circulated while conversations flowed effortlessly. The Beverly Hills skyline served as a breathtaking backdrop.

The Evening’s Events

Once cocktail hour concluded, the DJ invited everyone inside the mansion for Mashan and Jamie’s grand entrance. The energy immediately shifted from serene to celebratory.

During dinner service, guests enjoyed heartfelt speeches and shared laughter. Meanwhile, we stepped away briefly to chase the remaining light across the property. Greystone Mansion boasts numerous architectural details and hidden corners, each ideal for romantic portraits.

As the evening continued, guests filled the dance floor. Music echoed through the historic halls while friends and family celebrated late into the night.

Planning a Greystone Mansion Wedding

Greystone Mansion is one of the most iconic wedding venues in Beverly Hills. Its dramatic architecture, panoramic views, and lush gardens create endless opportunities for refined wedding photography.

If you are planning a Greystone Mansion wedding and are searching for a photographer familiar with the estate’s best portrait locations and lighting conditions, I would love to connect.

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