I’ve had the good fortune of knowing Ryan and Nicole for many years. I used to work with Nicole and I met Ryan when they volunteered to do a mock “wedding-style” photo shoot. During the session I learned that Ryan was obsessed with golf, so I invited him to play a round with me at Bella Collina. Through our many rounds of golf, we became fast-friends.

When Ryan and Nicole became engaged, I assumed I would be their wedding photographer. At this point I had worked with them on several photo sessions and I couldn’t imagine anyone else capturing their special day. Being the good friends that they are, they told me that they didn’t want me to have to work their wedding! This often comes up when a family member or friend is getting married. Let me be clear, it is an honor to photograph your wedding!

Nicole has been a party planner since I’ve known her, so she knew exactly what she wanted for her wedding day. With Nicole growing up in San Clemente, they decided to get married close to home at the Ole Hanson Beach Club. It was the perfect setting for their casual cocktail-style reception.

The highlight of the night was the gender reveal. Guests were given confetti poppers with the color that would reveal the gender to everyone. As they counted down to zero, the poppers shot out blue confetti over the ecstatic couple. The announcement was quickly followed my cheers, hugs, and tears of joy. I must admit that it was difficult to photograph that moment with tears in my eyes!

Since their wedding, they have welcomed a handsome son into their lives. I am now their official “family photographer”.