Way back when I shot their engagement photos, I knew Nancy and Josh's wedding was going to be something that I had to experience. When the day came, it really was unlike any other wedding that I have ever been to. The raw emotion shared not only between husband and wife, but also between friends was palpable. Everyone who was there shared in the love.

Josh was alone in his room before the wedding. I found him cell phone in one hand, iron in the other as he was busy getting ready. One by one, his groomsmen joined him in the room sharing stories and memories of the past while looking forward to the future. Eventually, glasses were poured, and toasts made, but throughout it all the look of joy never left Josh's face.

Just downstairs, Nancy and her bridesmaids arrived back at the hotel from the salon. Nancy look stunning. She was a bit nervous, or perhaps more anxious and excited for the wedding. What I saw was someone who was looking forward to spending her life with the man of her dreams and wanted to start that moment. As the girls were all finished up, Nancy and I stepped outside for a few quick portraits inside the hotel.

Soon enough, we all headed over in two limos to the Woodside Chapel. It is a quaint country style chapel nestled in the hills. As she walked down the aisle, Josh surprised everyone by quickly turning around and grabbing his guitar to play to Nancy. The ceremony was beautiful, focusing on the how Nancy and Josh found each other and found love. 

We had to be quick, but went up the street after the ceremony to Huddart Park for a photograph of the entire bridal party. From here, we drove to the Saratoga Foothill Club for the reception so that Nancy and Josh could spend time with their guests. The weather was perfect for everyone to mingle while enjoying cocktails and appetizers on the patio. 

After finding their own coke bottle vase pointing them to their tables, the guests sat down to enjoy the meal. The room was designed by Julia Morgan and beautifully created with hardwood. Throughout the room, memories were created over dinner and toasts.

After a bit of dancing to the DJ, Josh took his guitar to the stage with his band and rocked the house for a short set. As they drove into song after song, the energy in the place was amazing. Finally we stepped out into the cool moonlight for one last photograph to close the day.

It was a special day for everyone, not just Nancy and Josh, but it was the first day of a new life for them. It's days like this this make me realize how amazing my job is. Congratulations again Nancy and Josh!

Hotel: The Inn at Saratoga

Ceremony: Woodside Village Church

Reception: Saratoga Foothill Club