Boston Engagement | Lily + Steven

Boston Engagement

Over Halloween weekend, we took a day trip to capture Lily and Steven’s Fall Boston engagement session. We would only be in town for 8 hours, so we had to move quickly upon our arrival. Our first stop (non-photo related) was to James Hook and Co for some tasty lobster rolls. A proper introduction to this famous East Coast city.

After stuffing our faces, we were off to the Boston Public Library. This building was on the top of my list after researching to find classic architecture around downtown. After arriving, it simply was not feasible with the sheer amount of visitors that were constantly meandering around. We quickly hopped in our car and headed to location number two- the Gas Lamp District. This place checked all the boxes. From the classic cobblestone streets to the historic, ivy-covered homes I was in photographer’s heaven.

When we finished scouting there it was time to meet up with Lily, Steven, and their pup Sydney. Lily is a student at Harvard so we started their session in Cambridge. As we made our way across the grounds we admired all of the classic East Coast architecture. It was made even more beautiful by all of the surrounding fall foliage. We met out front of  Widener Library, one of the most iconic buildings on Harvard’s campus. Sydney donned a blue bandana with the couple’s wedding date. It was perfectly color-coordinated with Lily and Steven’s outfits. After grabbing some shots on campus we headed over to our next location- the Charles River.

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Downtown Boston

We left Cambridge after snapping photos at the river and made our way back into downtown Boston. Our first stop was Acorn Street- the epitome of old-school Boston. Being one of the last few remaining cobblestone streets of Boston I knew this would be a beautifully unique location. We walked a bit, finding beautiful little nooks and captured lots of sweet moments along the way. Lily and Steven donned their alternate outfits and looked so dreamy together! Lily wore a white floor-length dress and Steven sported a midnight blue suit and brown leather dress shoes.

Our last location of the evening was Boston Harbor. As we arrived, the sun just began to dip behind the clouds and blessed us with gorgeous light. We could see sailboats taking evening tours around the harbor which made for the best background. It was so fun to see them go by and cheer on this awesome couple. I’m beyond thrilled that we were able to meet up with Lily and Steven. I can’t wait to see them again this Summer for their <a href=”https://alexwphotography.com/weddings/conti-di-san-bonifacio-wedding/”>wedding in Tuscany</a>!

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Malibu Hills Engagement | Jackie + Nick

Malibu Hills Engagement

With all of the wonderful weather we’ve been experiencing in California recently, I headed out with Jackie and Nick for a Malibu Hills engagement session. Besides the fact that we virtually had the park all to ourselves, we lucked out with perfect weather and the most beautiful Springtime colors.

Originally from separate coasts, Jackie and Nick met a few years back in California and will be getting married later this year in New Jersey. Because of the location that we chose for their engagement session, Jackie and Nick leaned more towards the semi-casual side for their outfits which were perfectly balanced with one another. Jackie’s first look of the day was an all-white floor length dress with a slit up the leg. Nick donned a navy button up with khaki slacks and brown leather dress shoes. As the day turned into evening Jackie changed into a gorgeous floor-length floral dress with an open back while Nick sported a white button up.

The pair has such incredible natural chemistry with one another that I had to hardly do anything besides clicking the shutter. Rather than posing my couples as many people do, I prefer to direct them as if we were shooting a scene in a movie. As we explored the area together, chatting from one location to another, I would give them both little scenes to set out for me. This works perfectly to capture the genuine connection between my couples and so as to not make them feel awkward and worry about hand placement, body positioning etc.

Towards the end of our session, I took them to one of my favorite locations on the property—a giant oak tree that is more than 100 years old. I don’t normally shoot on black and white film during my sessions but I decided to do a little experimentation and try my hand at it. You can only improve if you take risks, right? I am thrilled that I did so because the images turned out freaking beautiful! It’s convinced me to shoot more black and white and take more chances with my work. We ended the session with celebratory high-fives and watched the sun set behind the mountains.

Lab | Richard Photo Lab
Film | Portra 160 // Fuji 400h // Ilford 3200

Topanga Canyon Engagement | Brittany & Ryan

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

Rosewood Miramar Beach Wedding | Katarina + Dominic

Rosewood Miramar Beach Wedding

I had the pleasure of photographing a gorgeous Rosewood Miramar Beach wedding earlier this year in Montecito. The Rosewood opened just over a year ago and now serves as one of Santa Barbara’s premier luxury hotels. The property boasts private villas, five-star dining, and even a trained hawk to keep stray birds away. This beautiful venue served as the backdrop for the day’s festivities.

Getting Ready

Katarina and her bridesmaids got ready in the upstairs bridal suite of the hotel. Everyone was in great spirits while the ladies of TEAM hair and makeup worked their magic. A Chinese tea ceremony was held in the morning before Katarina slipped into her wedding dress. Both families attended and gave gifts to the couple along with words of wisdom and well wishes.

Following the tea ceremony was the first look for the bride and groom. Katarina slipped into her dress with the help of her bridesmaids and Mom. She paired her outfit with a pair of sparkly Louboutin heels and a bouquet from Toast Santa Barbara. The bridesmaids all wore stunning velvet dresses from Jenny Yoo’s newest line. The couple’s dog, Teddy, was included in the big day and even donned a tux of his very own.

Ceremony

Nina Moore and her team designed the most beautiful ceremony space. The aisle was lined with cherry blossom trees and loose petals were given to guests to toss. Roses, orchids, and hydrangeas adorned the floral arch at the head of the aisle. A live artist was present on the day to paint the couple as they recessed back down the aisle and enjoyed their first dance as husband and wife.

Reception

The reception space was decorated with stunning monochromatic white and gold tones. The sweetheart table was adorned with candles and surrounded by cherry tree blossoms.

Katarina and Dominic enjoyed a sparkly cake-cutting white surrounded by all of their loved ones.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Venue | Rosewood Miramar Beach

Planning | Nina Moore

Florals | Toast Santa Barbara

Videography | The Quail and The Dove

Makeup + Hair | Team Hair and Makeup

DJ | LIV Entertainment Group

Dance Floor | RCD Dance Floors

Rentals | Bright Event Rentals

Linens | La Tavola Linen

Photo Booth | Mir Mir Photo

Omni Rancho Las Palmas Wedding | Hannah + Vaughn

Omni Rancho Las Palmas Wedding | Hannah + Vaughn

Palm Springs Wedding

This Omni Rancho Las Palmas wedding is seriously something special. Not only are the bride and groom two of the sweetest people I’ve met, but their wedding day was stunning. I knew after initially photographing Hannah + Vaughn for their engagement session that these two would be so much fun on their wedding day. Their chemistry together is so natural and organic that it makes my job capturing them a breeze!

The pair chose the beautiful Rancho Las Palmas resort in Rancho Mirage to say “I do”. This stunning venue set the perfect tone and made for the most beautiful backdrop for their wedding day. I highly recommend visiting the property if you haven’t done so. The sprawling grounds are filled with lush greenery and it overlooks the beautiful San Jacinto Mountains. The pool even had a “Splashtopia” zone which Vaughn certainly made use of during his stay there.

We met Hannah in her suite on the morning of the wedding day. She was getting ready with her closet ladies even though she chose to forgo a formal bridal party. We styled and photographed her details while she received the final hair and makeup touchups. Following hair and makeup, Hannah and her closest ladies popped a bottle of champagne and toasted the bride-to-be. Afterward, Hannah opened Vaughn’s wedding day gift and enjoyed a teary-eyed read from the card he wrote her.

Ceremony

Vaughn was getting ready across the property in his own suite. Once he was suited up, we headed outside for portraits and eagerly awaited Hannah to meet us for the first look.  The pair decided to forgo the traditional “tap on the shoulder” and instead stand back-to-back. They held one another’s hands and announced how excited they were to see the other. On three, they both turned and were immediately overcome with pure excitement. Soon after, all the guests joined us on the lawn for family portraits and found their seats, as the ceremony was about to begin. Hannah and Vaughn exchanged handwritten vows to one another under a wooden chuppah and celebrated their marriage by breaking the wine glass. 

Cocktail Hour

Cocktail hour was held on the main lawn once the ceremony concluded. Guests dined on charcuterie boards and sipped handmade cocktails while they mingled one another. Hannah and Vaughn were chasing the sunset on the other side of the property having their portraits taken. We headed to a section of the golf course that I had scouted the day prior. Everything was going perfect until a sneaky sprinkler popped up and shot a very surprising (yet refreshing) blast of water directly to the face. I’ve never seen a bride and groom run faster on their wedding day. 

We headed up to the reception space after capturing photos across the grounds. The sun was beginning to set and the light on the rooftop was just perfect. Hannah and Vaughn enjoyed the last few minutes of cocktail hour with their guests while we photographed all of the beautiful decor. The tables were adorned with golden chargers and had beautiful floral runners made up of white roses and eucalyptus. Guests were soon ushered upstairs where they were greeted with champagne and a live band. Everyone gathered around the dance floor to enjoy the first and parent dances. The dance floor opened at sunset and guests danced the night away to the undeniably talented Down Beat LA.

 

Photography | Alex W Photography

Planning | Weddings By Pam Olson

Venue | Omni Rancho Las Palmas

Florals + Lighting | Artisan Event and Floral Design

Hair + Makeup | Drea Nicole

Band | Down Beat LA

Rentals | Bright Event Rentals

Black Tie Avalon Palm Springs Wedding | Hilary + Adam

Avalon Palm Springs Wedding | Hilary + Adam

Hilary and Adam are Atlanta natives who chose to have a destination Avalon Palm Springs wedding. All of their friends and relatives flew from out of town to celebrate the couple and spend a weekend partying in the desert.  We have no doubt you too will want a Palm Springs wedding after seeing this black-tie affair.

Getting Ready

Hilary and Adam chose the historic Avalon Hotel as the backdrop for their celebration. They got ready in the bungalows the morning of their wedding day with their bridal party by their side. While the ladies were getting hair and makeup done we photographed the invitation suite and bridal details. Black and white were used throughout to mirror the black-tie theme of the wedding. The calligrapher even adorned their invitation suite with custom Palm Springs sketches and vellum inserts. Hilary wore an open-back dress with a plunging neckline and a bespoke perfume from Le Labo.

Adam looked like a member of the Rat Pack in his tuxedo and white jacket. He donned custom cufflinks with monogrammed initials alongside black satin loafers to complete the ensemble. Prior to the first look, Adam and the guys captured groomsmen portraits in the courtyard. Once the first look finished, we met with the rest of the bridal party on the main lawn for photos. The guys donned classic black tuxedoes while the ladies wore classic black floor-length dresses accompanied by white roses and olive bouquets.

Pre-Ceremony Portraits

Before the ceremony started we headed off-site to capture portraits with more of a natural Palm Springs vibe. There was a gorgeous area just down the street lined with palm trees and accompanied by mountain views.

Ceremony

The ceremony site was held on the main lawn with the San Jacinto mountains as the backdrop. The color palette was black and white, a perfect complement to everyone’s outfits. Giant vases filled with white and blush roses, olive branches, and peppercorns surrounded the altar. Hundreds of rose petals were scattered throughout the aisle and calligraphy programs were located on everyone’s seats.

A string quartet played “Sky Full of Stars” during the couple’s recessional back down the aisle.

Cocktail Hour

Cocktail hour was held by the main pool at sunset following the ceremony. Guests enjoyed artisan cocktails and tasty hors-d’oeuvres with each other while the couple portraits took place across the property.

Reception

The alfresco reception space took place beneath hundreds of twinkling market lights. Guests were greeted with warm candlelight and views of the San Jacinto mountains. 30-foot floral garlands filled with an abundance of white blooms and greenery decorated the communal tables.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Venue | Avalon Hotel

Planner/ Florist | Artisan Event Floral Decor

Makeup + Hair | Jen Plus Colour

Video | Paper Bird Weddings

String Quartet | City String Ensemble

Bakery | Exquisite Desserts

Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab

Fall Inspired Hotel Bel-Air Wedding | Melissa + Michael

Hotel Bel-Air Wedding | Melissa + Michael

I had the distinct pleasure of photographing Melissa and Michael’s Hotel Bel-Air wedding earlier this Fall. I first met this sweet couple last Summer when I photographed their friend’s wedding in Tuscany at Conti Di San Bonifacio. We were seated next to one another at the rehearsal dinner and instantly hit it off. Since then, I’ve documented their proposal on the top of a skyscraper in downtown Los Angeles and their engagement session at Sunstone Villa in Santa Ynez.

I arrived at Hotel Bel-Air the day before the wedding to photograph both their rehearsal dinner and to scout the grounds for tomorrow’s wedding. It was my first time visiting the venue, and as soon as I stepped foot on the grounds, I felt like I was transported to Northern California. The redwoods and sequoias encompassing the property were reminiscent of being in Muir Woods. Our team arrived the next morning to Melissa’s suite where she and the ladies were having their hair and makeup done. Michael and the guys were enjoying brunch on the main lawn before getting suited up for the day. We styled all of Melissa’s beautiful details in the courtyard outside her room. Honeycrisp Designs created the burgundy-influenced invitation suite that is perfectly balanced with the florals and color scheme of the day.

Morning Details

After Melissa’s mom helped her into her dress we headed out to meet Michael for the first look. Michael was eagerly awaiting Melissa’s arrival at the main lawn. When Michael turned to see his bride, the look of excitement and happiness on his face said it all. Soon after bridal party portraits were over guests began to arrive. They were led down a staircase that revealed the ceremony site below. Thousands of pink rose petals adorned the walkway that Melissa would walk down and modern, gold-backed chairs lined the aisle.

Cocktail Hour

Following the ceremony, Melissa and Michael recessed back down the aisle as guests showered the newly married couple with rose petals. Hors de oeuvres and cocktails were served as guests mingled during cocktail hour. While guests wined and dined, Melissa and Michael explored the property to capture their sunset portraits.

Reception

Guests were soon ushered indoors to dinner. Everyone’s jaws dropped as they made their way into the reception space. The area was adorned with blush, red, and burgundy flowers that perfectly complemented the golden tableware and blush seats. La Tavola linen supplied the most beautiful velvet napkins and Borrowed Blu’s burgundy stemmed glassware was just perfect.

The couple’s fathers and close friends gave heartfelt speeches while everyone joined in for toasts. After the speeches concluded, everyone surrounded the dance floor to watch Michael and Melissa have their first dance together. Fireworks shot out from the head table to end the dancing with a bang. Once dinner and cake cutting concluded, the dance floor opened up for dancing.

Outside of the reception space, an endless dessert bar of pastries and sweets awaited the guests. Everyone danced the night away while celebrating Melissa and Michael. The day was even more beautiful than anyone could have hoped for and it was an honor to have documented it.

Photography | Alex W Photography

Venue | Hotel Bel-Air

Planning + Design | Kelsey Events

Florals | Flowers By Cina

Beauty | Kelly Zhang Studio

Stationery | Honey Crisp Designs

Video | Monroe Films

Tableware | Borrowed Blu

Rentals | Bright Event Rentals, Chameleon Chair Collection, Chiavari Chair Rentals, Found Vintage Rentals

DJ | Visions Entertainment

Photobooth | Shutter Booth

Lighting + Draping | Amber Event Production

Cake | Simply Sweet Cakery

Acrylic | Delovely Details

Heels | Jimmy Choo

Film Lab | Richard Photo Lab

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

Switzer Farm Wedding in Westport | Jennifer + Andrew

Switzer Farm Wedding

You need to drop what you’re doing and come take a peek at this gorgeous Switzer Farm wedding. This newly opened venue is located in Westport, CA, and made for the perfect backdrop for Jen and Andrew’s wedding day. The house was originally built in 1884 by the Switzer brothers and was restored in 2015. Before the renovation, world-renowned photographer Ansel Adams actually photographed the property in 1964! The property overlooks the Mendocino Coast and would be a dream for any couple looking for a unique venue.

We flew up for the weekend to document the festivities. After seeing their wedding photos below, we have no doubt you’ll want a coastal wedding as well!

Getting Ready

Jen and Andrew rented out the entire property for the weekend. Their bridal party stayed on-site and enjoyed the in-house chef and got ready alongside them on the wedding day. While Andrew and his groomsmen prepared downstairs, Jen and her bridesmaids were getting pampered in the upstairs suite. All of the ladies toasted Jen on marrying Andrew and Even their three dogs were included on the wedding day. After Jen finished with hair and makeup she slipped into her dress for portraits. Her mom was by her side to assist and capture some sweet moments in the process.

Ceremony

The ceremony was held on the property’s lawn overlooking the cliffs and the Pacific Ocean. Floral arrangements composed of pampas grass, spray roses, and fountain grass lined the aisle way. There was a flower-adorned wooden arbor at the altar for Jen and Andrew to stand under that framed the coastal rocks perfectly. Soon after the guests arrived, they were ushered down the hillside to their seats. Jen was walked down by her mom and Andrew was accompanied by his pup. After a heartfelt exchange of vows, the couple sealed their marriage with a kiss. Soon after, they made their way down the aisle with their dog in tow as their guests cheered them on.

Cocktail Hour

Guests made their way back up to the house for cocktail hour and to enjoy the sunset. Fresh oysters and handmade signature cocktails were served for everyone to enjoy. The most inviting lounge area was designed in the lower courtyard located beneath the main deck. While heading over to the lounge area with drinks and appetizers in hand, everyone stopped off at the welcome table to write in Jen + Andrew’s guest book.

Reception

Following cocktail hour, the reception space on the main lawn was opened to all the guests. Dinner was set to be served at an alfresco dining space beneath the stars. The tables were decorated with soft blue hues and gilded silverware. Loose blooms and floral centerpieces could be found throughout. Alongside the floral arrangements were the guests’ place settings written on agate. The sweetheart table sat at the head of the lawn surrounded by pampas grasses, overlooking the guests.

Guests soon made their way to their seats and the bridal party was about to make their grand entrance. Everyone stood, cheering on Jen and Andrew as they made their way to the dance floor. The two shared their first dance as husband and wife with views of the sunset over the Pacific. Meanwhile, their closest friends and family watched with adoration as the couple swayed, spun, and dipped one another.

Sunset Romantics

We absconded for a few minutes to capture a few more portraits before the sunset. We visited the home’s garden and captured the pair as they walked the property. After visiting the lounge area down in the courtyard, we headed back to the reception for dinner and a night full of dancing.

Guests raised their glasses and toasted one another during the speeches for the couple.
Jen and Andrew served one another bites of wedding cake while laughing and dancing into the night.

 Photography | Alex W Photography

Planning | Two Roads Event Co. 

Venue | Switzer Farm

Florals | Little Boy Flowers

Hair + Makeup | Megan Cary Artistry

Video | FonD Productions

Band | Lucky Devils Band

DJ | All Ears

Rentals | Bright Event Rentals

Film Lab | Indie Film Lab