Grass Valley California Wedding photographer: Kelley + Brian Workman

“Mawwige is whut bwings us togevveh today.” -The Impressive Best Man

Like The Princess Bride, this wedding was full of magic.  The day was fresh and beautiful in the little town of Grass Valley.  Jena and I pulled into the charming little town and were excited for the day.  As we walked up to the venue we were amazed at the beautiful floral, and cute décor.  We learned that Brian’s dad Mike was the florist and had created all of the floral arrangements.  He is brilliant.  Kelley had clearly put a lot of thought and effort into making this day perfect.  She had custom trail signs that pointed to lands from some of their favorite movies.  They had a table with photos of them as children and of their loved ones that were unable to make it.  They had so many beautiful touches all around the venue there were surprises at every turn.  The venue was a perfect setting for their intimate wedding.  With a small garden for their ceremony and the roof top terrace for the reception and dance floor.  The venue had hotel suites on the upper level where the ceremony and reception would be held.  It was so nice to have everything located close together! 

 We made our way to the bridal suite where Kelley was having her hair and make-up done.  As the very thoughtful person she is, she had adorable custom bags for her bridesmaid gifts.  We collected the couples personal details and invitations to start off our morning.  Kelley had a lot of cute Beauty and the Beast inspired items that went nicely with her color scheme.  Once we were done we were in search of the brides wedding gown.  We located the brides custom ballgown  getting the final steam before it’s big debut.  Gaylene the mother of the bride is a seamstress and created the most perfect gown for her daughter.  Kelley fell in love with a wedding gown years ago, she bought it for her one day wedding.  As the years went by Kelley’s vision of her perfect dress changed.  While she still loved the details on the skirt the top needed a touch of her own.  Gaylene went to work,  she created a whole new bust for Kelley’s dream dress and attached her original gown’s skirt with a few extra layers to tie it all together.  Kelley really wanted to honor her mother on her wedding day and asked Gaylene if she could incorporate parts of her own wedding gown into Kelley’s dress.  Gaylene attached beautiful floral detailed sleeves that were from her own wedding gown .  With these sleeves came a story about how when Gaylene went to marry Kelley’s father Herb, Gaylene got snagged on a rose bush while walking down the aisle. Kelley’s grandfather pulled Gaylene along unaware and the snag ripped her dress a bit.  After Gaylene and Herb’s wedding the dress was preserved, and during this service the shop repaired the tear so well Gaylene almost missed it during the addition to Kelley’s gown. Gaylene and Kelley shared a sweet conversation about how a piece of her late grandfather would be walking her down the aisle that day.  We had fun learning about the history and sentiment behind the gown and capturing the love that went into this dress.  Kelley also wore her mom’s vintage cap veil.  We rejoined the bride and she was getting her finishing touches of her make up complete.  The brides maids had arrived in our absence and were buzzing about doing hair and makeup making sweet comments about how beautiful our bride looked.  Kelley was a vision,  a very classic beauty.  

Meanwhile in the grooms suite, the groom was calm and cool ready for the day to happen.  His groomsmen all kept him company and all enjoyed a relaxed morning.  Except for the best man, Jim.  Him was busy being a superman.  He was everywhere with all of the knowledge.  Jim helped all of the groomsmen with their cuff links, button covers, tied ties and even helped style Brian’s hair.  The Groomsmen had custom hangers made by the bride and were gifted special socks.  (Kelley really thought of it all!)  The groomsmen and groom wore dark green suits, that went beautifully with the burgundy of the brides maids.   Brian’s father helped the guys with their boutonnieres and soon they would all witness Kelley and Brian say “I do.”  Time got a bit away from us but like they say,  “Time flies when you’re having fun”.   Soon the brides maids were ready,  we snapped a few pictures before the bride slipped into her gown.  We had a really fun time capturing the brides maid’s first look of the dress on Kelley.  Once Kelley was dressed we had her first look with her dad Herb.  When Kelley stepped into the hall Herb was in awe of his daughter.  Please to see the touches of his own wedding with her.  After this we tucked the bride away as more guests started to arrive.  Gaylene snuck away and got into her dress.  When she came back into the room she surprised the bride with her dress,  Telling her about her and Brian’s mom Lisa’s plan to wear Pink and Blue to pay homage to Sleeping Beauty which is Kelley’s favorite Disney movie.  The couple waited separately waiting for the final cue before the wedding was to start.  As their guests found their seats and got settled in, the procession would begin.  The wedding started with grandparents and close family members. 

With a unique line up the bridal party made their entrance.  The bridesmaids bouquets were pulled straight from the pages of a fairy tale made from fun items like a clock, a lantern, a carriage, a bird cage, and a pitcher.   Next down the aisle was Brian and his parents making their entrance to the Imperial march.  (We loved that Brian included both of his parents during this walk down the aisle. It was a special way to honor them both). Following Brian came the beautiful flower girl and both the handsome ring barers. Soon Kelley would be walked into the ceremony site by her mother and meet her father waiting for her at the top of the aisle.  Her father was such a trooper.  He was a man on a mission to walk his daughter down the aisle. With some assistance from Devin, Herb found himself at he end of the aisle ready to give his daughter away to a well deserving man.  While Kelley approached the alter, Brian was all eyes for her.  A soft smile crossed his face.  When looking at Brian Jena said she just thought, “still waters run deep”. While he’s reserved with his expressions Brian was submerged in this moment watching his beautiful bride.  He is all heart for Kelley and in moments like this it is so clear.  Jim, was doubling as best man and also the officiant.  He opened with movie quotes and sentiment.  He absolutely perfected this speech and won everyone over with his wit and humor.  The couple celebrated their union with a paint pour, a tradition I have yet to see and really loved the uniqueness.   They returned to their places and exchanged rings.  The couple was announced man and wife and shared a kiss.  After their kiss they released butterflies which a few lingered on their releasers fingers and some fluttered off into the garden.  After the butterflies cleared the couple would make their exit. 

 We continued the afternoon with family portraits where visitors would come and join the couple wishing them happiness in their ever after.  After these photos, we made our way across the venue to the fountain for the bridal party images.  We ran through these images with ease and laughter while making every effort to return the couple to their reception.  I our small window of time we caught come incredible shots.  The couple returned to the reception and was announced,  Coming out in Disney ears and a First responder support cap.

  Soon dinner was served and we were all enjoying plates full of deliciousness.  After dinner the party continued with toasts Jim lead the toasts with fond memories of he and Brian’s childhood.  How when he was “the new kid” Brian quickly befriended him and they would play with dinosaurs and thrash toy cars.  He took us through the time when Jim met his wife, and how there wasn’t a “third wheel” or jealousy but that she became an addition to their friend group and they didn’t experience growing pains.  He spoke about how excited he was to watch Brian and Kelley’s journey.  (He took his best man role seriously and did a tremendous job of it). Following Jim was Allison, Kelley’s sister.  She spoke  with lighthearted banter at her sister but with love, expressing her happiness for the pair.  Afterward Brian’s parents took up the mic to spread their gratefulness for the couple and thanking those in attendance. Kelley spoke thanking everyone for making the journey to celebrate the wedding with them, Brian nodded in agreement and let her do the talking for them.   After toasts the couple shared their first dance.

Starting their dance with middle school distance the couple swayed stiff armed avoiding coodies.  In no time they were in a closed dance position giggling when Brian stretched their arms out and they do a tango-esque march.  They got to the end of the dance floor and proceeded back the way they came. The couple giggled some more and we all enjoyed this playful sight.  When the song closed brain’s mom joined him on the dance floor where they danced and chatted with smiles and embraced with a few tears.   You can see just how much the momma loves her son.  Moments after this sweet sight you can hear “bad to the bone” coming through the speakers. Soon Kelley and Herb come out from behind the curtain, whiskey in hand, cigarette resting on his lips and a whole lot of attitude being thrown every which way.  Kelley giggling while bringing him in she takes a swig of whiskey, grimacing at the taste and then the music changes.  YMCA plays through out the venue and the two dance while Herb holds up signs. The couple orchestrated perfect dances that showed their sense of humor and love for fun.  Herb ended the multi song dance with a sign that said “She made me do it”. But the real truth is that it was all Herb’s idea.  The couple invited all of their guest to join then in an anniversary dance.  We love seeing all the couples dancing and reminiscing about their own wedding days.  The bride and groom did bouquet and garter tosses which they invited all ladies and gents to join in on the fun.  Jim’s wife caught the bouquet, and Kelley’s Brother caught the garter.  After a bit more dancing the couple went  and cut their wedding cake.  They played it nice and didn’t smoosh they cake in their face.( We love when couples play nice!) For dessert the couple had Cake, Crumbl cookies and cupcakes.  You had your pick of sweets that night and if you wanted a savory treat the couple had movie theater popcorn available too.  (A nod to their second date at the movies.)   The sun was setting and like Cinderella we lost track of time celebrating the couple.  We whisked them away before last light and captured some adorable shots kissing in the grape vines and dancing in the street.  Even when things don’t go to plan fate steps in to bring us something magical.  The couple concluded their night with more dancing, some fun in their photo booth and a trip to downtown where we got to create some fun night shots in downtown Grass Valley.

We had a wonderful time capturing your wedding day. We are grateful to have met you both and to have the opportunity to meet all the wonderful people in your lives! We wish you both a happily ever after! 

Vendors

Videography: Picture Perfect Photobooth

Hair Stylist: Jessilyn

Floral: Mike Workman

Caterer: Sierra Grill Smoke house

Cake: Family friend Irma

Cookies: Crumbl

DJ: Jamal Walker

Dress Designer: Gaylene Miller

Grooms attire: Gaylene Miller + Formal Knights.

Merlo Park, Stirling City Ca Wedding Photographer: Michael + Hailey Skytte

“The couples who are meant to be are the ones who go through everything that’s designed to tear them apart and they come out even stronger.”

This statement holds especially true for Hailey and Michael. They give off such a low-key, relaxed vibe but they have been through a lot in their journey together and have forged a bond that is unbreakable as a result.

May 28th, 2022 was crisp and dewy as there had been rainfall the evening before but everyone was excited for the wedding ahead and no clouds could dampen their spirits! When we arrived the bride was busy arranging the floral arch at the ceremony site. Time was of the essence and Jena and I were more than happy to jump into action to assist so Hailey could begin working on her hair and makeup. While we worked on florals, a few friends of the families also came to help out and the four of us girls had a blast listening to music and arranging flowers together! Everyone was so caught up in how much they were enjoying their activities that they barely noticed the hours going by; in no time, the floral arch was complete and it was time for Jena to meet up with Michael because it was his turn to look sharp in front of the camera. During this time,  Michael gushed about how excited he was to see his bride. He spoke about how he was focused on being in the moment and taking his time to live each second of the day. He was so excited to marry the woman of his dreams he didn’t want to waste any time fussing over getting ready— he had a wedding to get to! However, by looking at the photos you wouldn’t be able to tell that there was any rushing involved- he looked stellar; the epitome of a classic, handsome, and stylish groom.

Back at the venue, Hailey was having her hair done by her stepmom, Shanelle, in the bridal suite. They both have a wicked sense of humor and there was a lot of laughter in the room! Meanwhile, Hailey’s mom Shar, was everywhere! She was like Wonder Woman in the background making sure everything was perfect for her baby girl on her big day.

Hailey was literally shaking with excitement while getting ready and even had a few sips of Champaign to calm her nerves. She wore a gorgeous unique lace gown with a form-fitting silhouette from Unforgettable Boutique which was just breathtaking on her. Her bracelet was a gift from her mother. Some of the more sentimental touches were a tiny bluebird pin that was attached to her bouquet it is an heirloom passed down by the women in her family as well as a lovely gold ring. Hailey and Michael chose not to have a bridal party which created a beautiful moment for her mother to be the one to help Hailey into her dress. After this intimate moment with her mom, her grandmother pinned her blue bird before she went to the chapel for the first look with her dad. There is just something about a father seeing his daughter “all grown up” on her wedding day that creates a connection between the two that is so incredibly wholesome.

When Michael returned to Merlo Park, he and Myron their officiant took a special moment for a prayer at the chapel. It was a  beautiful moment to be amongst the trees in the quiet where they could reflect upon all they had to be grateful for this day and every day. They also took an extra moment to remember those who were with them in spirit. After closing out their prayer Michael was ready to greet his guests.  The seats were filling and the guests were dressed in shades of purples and creating a lovely compliment to the couple’s perfect day.  The music cued and soon the procession started.  Michael ushered his mom and Hailey’s mom to their seats and patiently waited for his bride to make her way through the woods.   Hailey was a vision.   Her father held her steady and walked his little girl to her new beginning.   Once Hailey reached the end of the aisle her stepfather joined them and linked arms with her and both her dads gave her away.  Michael was beaming with joy, he was smiling so big we couldn’t take our cameras off him.   We knew that Hailey would want to remember that handsome grin for the rest of her life.   The ceremony was beautiful, Hailey’s stepmom shared a bible verse before Myron lead everyone in a prayer.  The couple chose to perform a cord tying ceremony to signify their union.  Hailey and Michael shared their personal vows while all of their guests quietly wept with joy and pride.  Hailey and Michael exchanged their rings of sapphire blues and sealed the ceremony with a kiss!  As the guest trickled down to the reception they stopped along the bridge to feed the rainbow trout.  We quickly managed the family formal photos and excused everyone to join in the cocktail hour.  We took Hailey and Michael to the top side of the park where they could share a quiet moment together.  We took a note from Michael and really lived in the moments for these portraits.  We had plenty of time and the couple was relaxed and bringing their modeling “A” game! When we finally made our way to the reception the couple was soon embraced and swept away by all of their lovely guests.  Jena and I took this time to capture candid images of the guests and of the details.  We even enjoyed a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade a labor of love from the bride and groom.  (Yummmmm!)

Soon the bride and groom invited everyone to the dance floor as they shared their first dance, Michael picked out their first dance song when he was working on a fire and every time it came on it brought Hailey closer to him. The song was Cover me up by Morgan Wallen and the moment was emotional, beautiful, and fun.  Hailey was joined by her father as they danced to Zoe Jane by Staind a song I had yet to hear at a wedding but was perfectly fitting at this moment.  Michael’s mom joined him with the classic Mamma’s don’t let your babies grow up to be Cowboys by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson swaying and singing along the pair giggled.  Hailey’s mom then joined her baby for a dance to My Wish by Rascal Flatts where there were tears in nearly every eye watching.  It’s moments like these where you may not know the mountains they’ve climbed but you can feel the monument at the moment. This wedding had these moments tucked in their vows, dances, and toasts that brimmed with deep happiness and love where without warning the moment would overflow and take its audience by storm.  Hailey and Michael were surrounded by loved ones.  But how could you meet this couple and not fall in love with their golden hearts?! We sure “CAUGHT A VIBE”. The toasts further proved the richness of their character and their devotion to one another.

Jena and I feel so lucky to have gained Hailey and Michael as friends and we cannot wait to watch the rest of their lives unfold and see all their adventures.

We hope you all enjoy reliving this amazing day!

Cheers to many years!

Vendors:

Venue: Merlo Park

Hair: Shanelle Dolan

Catering: Jalapeno City

Curros: OG Curros

Dress Boutique: Unforgettable Bridal Boutique

Grooms Attire: Men’s Warehouse

Stirling City Wedding Photographer: Barden Wedding

This wedding brings me so much joy.  Rachel has been a part of my life for many years, she has taken me under her wing many times.  I am so happy to see that she has found someone who matches her loving soul.  Mike, I know you will keep her heart safe.  

The morning of the wedding was beautiful, it was crisp and not a cloud in the sky.  Jena and I started our day by jamming out to Queen while driving to Stirling city.  When we pulled into Merlo park we were greeted by the groom and groomsmen who were exchanging laughs in the parking lot.   We made our way to the bridal room where we found the ladies sipping on cider mimosas getting ready for the day. 

Rachel was beaming.  She had her best friends and mom with her before she said I do to the man of her dreams.  Rachel had a lovely bridal bouquet made by Fullers flowers which were artfully arranged with roses, sunflowers, and eucalyptus.  This floral arrangement complimented Rachel’s color scheme with the Bridesmaid’s red dresses and the junior bridesmaid and flower girls in adorable yellow sundresses.  Rachel’s dress was a beautiful high low soft lace gown with off-the-shoulder sleeves.  The high low cut of her dress was a great way to show off her cowgirl boots.  

Rachel was nothing short of stunning on her wedding day. 

Jena captured great shots of the men getting ready and special moments of the groom’s mother pining on his boutonniere before the ceremony.  The men dressed in classic and comfortable sporting boots, jeans, and a crisp white button-up.  Both Rachel and Mike were excited but relaxed, they were ready to start their forever.  Soon the guest started to arrive and the nerves excitement started to build.  

The ceremony was held at the upper pond with a view of the pond and waterfall behind their custom arch.  The bridal party and bride walked down the aisel to a live acoustic version of Beautiful Crazy.  The ceremony was short but filled with love.  Rachel and Mike’s first kiss was one for the books.  Mike then lifted his bride and carried her away. 

Mike and Rachel’s reception was overflowing with a good time.  They had a Photobooth hosted by C&C Photo booth rentals which was extremely popular and fun. Their guest book was a natural plank of wood with a heart with M&R wood burned into it.  Their wedding favors were Sunflower packets to share the love and to let the love grow.  Their centerpieces were mason jars with twinkle lights and photos of the couple and their adventures.   To honor Rachels late father there were yellow roses, he was dearly missed but remembered and with us throughout the day. 

Several people gave toasts they all gave wonderful sentiments with great thought and humor.  There was even a song made for them called Lighthouse by Songlorious presented to them by a longtime friend. After toasts, the couple made it to the dance floor to enjoy their first dance.  

 They danced to Made for you by Jake Owens. They danced without notice of all the people around them.  Taking in every second of this song to be alone.  Rachel was joined on the dance floor by her son Nick,  They danced to Boy by Lee Brice.  Where I believe everyone watching wept a little bit.  Mike and Rachel’s mom shared a dance before opening up the dance floor to their guests.  I was so impressed by all the couples that joined them.  I had a lot of fun capturing this moment.  It was amazing to see a dance floor fill so quickly, everyone just enjoyed their partner at this moment and you could truly feel the love that surrounded this couple on their wedding day.  Following this dance, the couple then cut their wedding cake and had an epic battle of cake in the face. I’m not sure which one won.  Rachel’s namesake, Rachel serenaded them and the rest of the party with the song Keeping Score by Dan and Shay. (IT WAS BEAUTIFUL!)  The night led into the traditional bouquet and garter toss and concluded with more fun on the dance floor.  

Jena and I had such an amazing time.  This was the perfect wedding to break us back into weddings.  We thank you so much for trusting us to capture such amazing and cherished moments. 

Cheers to many years! 

Wedding Venue: Merlo Park, Stirling City

Floral: Fullers Flowers 

Photobooth: C&C Photo Booth

Also a huge shout out to the mother of the bride Cathy, and Amy for coordinating and decorating this amazing event.

Stirling city Wedding photographer: Barden sneak peek!

WOW! I was so nervous before this wedding because I have been out of the wedding scene for 3 years, almost to the day. Everything I was worried about came back to me instinctively. It was such a great day and I am so happy Rachel and Mike were the wedding to break the ice. This is not the complete blog this is just a sneak peek of their awesome and fun day (because I just can’t wait). Rach, I love you lady! Thank you for trusting me to capture your big day! Mike, I’m so happy Rachel has you to call her husband. You too are amazing and I couldn’t be happier for you both!