204
Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Mariah and Austin
May 31, 2011
| Weddings
Over a year ago I first met Austin and Mariah on their family farm in Groveland, the place that would later host their wedding. We talked at great length about the plans for their wedding; a wedding that seemed far in the future, but one that they were quite literally laying the groundwork for that day. Way back then, the family was just getting started on building a large barn that would serve as a dance floor for the party. It took slightly over a year, but four days before their wedding the barn was completed. Just in time.

Mariah and Austin are both well traveled and with that they have earned incredible perspective on life. In fact, they turned snapshots from their travels together into postcards that were used for wedding invitations; every guest got their own insight into their relationship. They are down to earth and family orientated. They support and love each other, but also bring such a health and vitality to their relationship that so many others miss. These are two individuals that were clearly made for each other.

When Katie and I arrived at the farm on the morning of the wedding, Austin and his family were making the final preparations for the homestyle wedding. Everyone was pitching in making this a true family wedding. Supplies were being carried across the farm; chairs set for the ceremony; delicious desserts baked. The amount of work that everyone had done to make this day happen was staggering and the farm was beautiful because of it. Yet in spite of how much work had already been completed and how much more was to come, everyone was cheerful and relaxed.

A few miles down the road, in one of the two cabins they rented at Pine Mountain Lake, Mariah was surrounded by her friends and family, taking care of last minute details and preparing, but really just enjoying each other's company. Laughter, memories, and old stories filled the air. Everyone was their to fully support and assist Mariah as she became the bride of Austin's dreams.

Just before the ceremony, in a clearing tucked away on a corner of the farm, Mariah and Austin first glimpsed each other as bride and groom. It was just the two of them, standing in grasses in the shade of the oak trees when Austin placed a turquoise necklace on his bride. It was a special moment for the two of them, but one that also swallowed up in the contentment of just being together.

Guests began to take their seats for the ceremony under a gigantic oak tree. Moments before the ceremony, the sky turned to grey and it began to rain. Just then Mariah was pulled across the farm in a carriage by two horses to the ceremony. With the rain softly falling, it was a beautiful and majestic sight to see. Of course I think the reason that they picked the area under the oak tree to have the ceremony was for the scenery, but it also worked as a gigantic umbrella keeping everyone dry underneath its leaves.

Mariah and Austin have a dog named River that is an inseparable part of their lives, so it was only natural that she would be included in the wedding day. She was right up front with the rest of the bridal party throughout the ceremony, but no one planned on her being such a vocal part of the ceremony as she barked and whine at being held at a leash length from her parents.

The reception was originally planned to be in an open meadow on the farm. Tables had been set to allow guests to enjoy the evening light on the trees. But with the rain becoming stronger, everyone quickly pitched in and carried the entire reception area inside the barn and out of the rain. Somehow everything fit a bit tightly, but perfectly, almost as if it had been planned this way all along. Everyone was closer together and able to share in each others company and spirit of the wedding.

Delicious BBQ ribs and chickens with all the fixings were served by Outlaw BBQ with plenty of tasty beer on tap and local wines. Friends and family offered toasts and words of advice for their marriage. Once dinner was finished, Mariah and Austin shared their first dance to Cake's "Love You Madly". As they whirled around together inside the barn, it was clear that the song fit them perfectly. Then a local blue grass band The Trespassers took the stage playing their unique sound for everyone to dance the night away to. As if that wasn't enough fun for the barn, we also brought along our photobooth. Every guest made sure to stop in multiple times and take home souvenir photograph.

It was a perfect wedding that didn't happen perfectly. No one wants it to rain on their wedding day, especially when they plan to have an sunset dinner outside, but for Mariah and Austin it almost made the wedding better. Guests had a direct hand in helping them on their wedding day and the closeness of the dinner seemed so fitting for their personalities. Perhaps most telling of all was the look of love on Marian and Austin's faces throughout what some might call "setbacks". To them the rain was not a setback, but another wonderful part of life to experience together.

Hair and Makeup: Artistic Bridal Hair
Local Organic Flowers: Golden Brodiaea Farm
Local Wines: Milliaire Winery


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Ted says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Was the umbrella a real umbrella or a flash diffusing kind?
Patrick says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

On most days it's a flash diffusing umbrella, but on this day it was also a rain stopping umbrella :)
Claire Cole says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

The colors you were able to capture were absolutely stunning. And the photo booth was a tremendous amount of fun. By chance will you be posting additional photobooth pics?
Ashley K says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

I love the laughter y'all captured in the pics of Mariah and Austin. It was truly a warm, family event (with lots of guests!), and you completely get that feeling from the pictures.

Bonus Points: I saw both the photographers lying on the wet ground at least once during the evening. And petting River. Amazing job all around.
Tei says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

The one with the umbrella makes me so happy. And the rejoicing "Austin and Mariah are here!" one as they came in the barn. And the one where Mariah is twirling with the girls. And pretty much all of them, really.

Joanna says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Awesome lighting, especially considering the rain situation! If we want a copy of a print from the photo booth, who should we contact? Thanks!
Chris says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

So many great moments and well captured.

Kelly Alvarez says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

These photos are absolutely beautiful, as are Mariah and Austin! I sadly couldn't attend their wedding, but seeing these photos makes me feel like I was there. I can feel their love and joy right through the pictures. Absolutely stunning!
Carole Dougherty says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

I loved all the photos--the ones of Mariah prewedding were a bonus. I especially loved the one of Mariah and Austin with the grass in the foreground and the dark sky, the one of the guests under that magnificent oak tree, the one of the cheerful helpers in aprons, the one of Mariah dancing with the children, the one of the wedding party in the horse drawn wagon--Did I say I loved them all?
Sameer Hansen says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Amazing photos, Austin and Mariah. This is a great way to document this once in a lifetime event.
Sandra Blasingame says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

The photos are amazing. The wedding was fantastic. You turned out smart, classy and beautiful.

sarah zebrowski says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

these are so so so beautiful... it's like living the whole evening over again!
Lauren Kubota says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Just incredible. They really capture all the love and fun and happiness of the day! I can't get over how beautiful everything looks. What a great collection of photos!
Rebecca Klymkowsky says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

These are lovely. Can't wait to see the rest. We had such fun with the photo booth and the results aren't too shabby either!
Josephine Dougherty says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Beautiful photos! I love them all and they really capture the feel of the wedding. It was so wonderful!

Stephanie Dougherty says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Gorgeous photos from a gorgeous and memorable day! How can we get copies of some of these for ourselves?
Tracy Rowland says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

These photos are all so beautiful and really express the feeling of the wedding. I loved the fact that you had a photo booth set up to take pictures of family and friends. It was a kick and Mariah and Austin got candid photos of everyone. Also...you guys were pretty much totally invisible which I think is great. Alot of the the time the photographers seem to control the wedding and you didn't....you captured it! Beautiful work!

BTW...in your first paragraph is says hose and I think you meant host... :)
Nick Zebrowski says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Great Pictures, lots of fun. I cant wait to see the rest!
Becky Z says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Great photos! You really captured the spirit of the event - joy!
Azad and Barbara says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Nice photos! They're more clear than my memory of the wedding, than again pictures don't drink. Good job capturing the atmosphere and vitality of the event and the couple!
Halli says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

So so precious! So magical! Really captured the day! Can't wait to be able to order some prints! .Let us know when we can!!!
Halli says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

So so precious! So magical! Really captured the day! Can't wait to be able to order some prints! .Let us know when we can!!!
Justin says: Thursday, June 2, 2011

Fantastic work here.
So many excellent memories for all.
Thank you so much for capturing the beauty & details we might have missed!
Kathy apRoberts says: Thursday, June 2, 2011

Your work is beautiful, absolutely beautiful!
Paris says: Thursday, June 2, 2011

Y'all are some really fabulous wedding photographers. Thanks for doing such a great job making sure that we remember how awesome the wedding was!
Linda Leach says: Thursday, June 2, 2011

WOW, these photographs are amazing. Thanks for the superb wedding!
jane cole says: Thursday, June 2, 2011

All the photos were wonderful--really captured the essence of the day!
jane cole says: Friday, June 3, 2011

Loved the photos. Beautifully captured the handsome bride and groom and the essence of the day.
June Cozad says: Friday, June 3, 2011

Absolutely magical photos of a memorable day! The umbrella photo is breathtaking - what a powerful metaphor for the love between Austin and Mariah.
Roz Z says: Friday, June 3, 2011

What a wonderfully joyful wedding! The photos are terrific.
Michael Sargent says: Monday, June 6, 2011

All of the photos are great and I especially love the photo booth! The colors are very vibrant and everything is amazingly sharp. There are also the amazing Bride and Groom shots that are just fantastic! In short...AWESOMENESS!!!
Paul Delaney says: Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Energy and joy, a wonderful time and exquisitely
photographed. Very cool, everyone.

Sarah Miller says: Tuesday, June 21, 2011

These are beautiful pictures, and it looks like you had a absolutely perfect day. Congrats Austin and Mariah!
Jim De Vico says: Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Fantastic pictures. Some of these look straight out of an episode of Firefly! Congratulations to both of you.
Austin says: Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Patrick, everyone has loved the pictures. I cannot wait to see the rest of them! Thank you again.
Mariah says: Thursday, June 23, 2011

THANK YOU, PATRICK!! I particularly love the one of River looking like she's going to take a bite out of the bread blessing, the one in the wagon, the blue sky one, and the umbrella one. And the black and white kiss with the barn party in the background. Plus some of those photobooth shots are AMAZING.

I seriously cannot wait to see the rest of them!! I can't decide if I am more excited to see the wedding pictures or the photo booth pictures. Really both!! ~;o)

Libby says: Friday, June 24, 2011

This was a fantastic event! The photos are beautiful and portray the day so well!
Paul Delaney says: Sunday, September 11, 2011

It was a great day caught by a pro! Wonderful pictures capturing the joy that was on display. I keep lookin!

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203
Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Jennifer and Michael
May 30, 2011
| Elopements | Weddings
When you ask most people what place your would normally associate with elopements, I think the answer is almost invariably Las Vegas. It has to be one of the ultimate party cities, seemingly fitting for so many who want to be whisked away in love. After all, there is no reason to go through the stress of planning a wedding when you can hop on a plane and get married just a few hours later. But what if that just isn't who you are?

Jennifer and Michael live and breathe in Las Vegas everyday, but they obviously are not part of the crazy entertainment lifestyle that has engulfed the city. They are outdoor enthusiasts spending their weekends together hiking in the backcountry of places like Red Rock Canyon. So when they decided to have a practical wedding, the idea of marrying in Yosemite resonated with them and before too long they were in the Valley.

Their wedding day was gorgeous, some of the best weather we have had in Yosemite in a while. We picked a place on the banks of the river overlooking Yosemite Falls for their ceremony. Each joined by a parent, they held each other in the meadow promising to love and always care for the other. It was simple and amazingly beautiful.

After Rev. Autrey Nassar pronounced them husband and wife, we set out across the valley for photographs. I've always made it clear that I rarely have a destination picked out for where create photographs, I prefer to not limit my creativity to preset locations, we wandered off the path and into the trees.

As we traveled, Jennifer and Michael seemed perfectly at home. Jennifer was hiking in her wedding dress through the forest, across fallen logs and through bushes. The fact that she was excited to do this in her wedding dress says far more about her than I can write her. All I know is that we came into beautiful clearings, spectacular views, and deserted beaches for them to enjoy. And everywhere we went, Jennifer and Michael were together with no one else in sight. It was the first day of their new lives.



Comments
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Dennis Pike says: Monday, May 30, 2011

exceptional work as always, Patrick. I love how seamlessly you use light, it always accents the photo perfectly, Never overdone.

Nicole says: Monday, May 30, 2011

Absolutely breathtaking! Congratulations!!! I'm so happy for you both. You look incredibly happy and content with one another. You are so handsome, Mike and Jen, you are GORGEOUS!!!! You two are great together. Beautiful, beautiful and you make a wonderful couple. I love you both SO much. God bless to you, your future and your marriage. xoxo.
Carolyn Fox says: Monday, May 30, 2011

All I can say is that these photographs are absolutely beautiful! Patrick is truly an artist! Thank you for capturing these special moments for Jennifer and Mike to keep forever.
Sue Clark says: Monday, May 30, 2011

Congratulations!! You make a great looking couple! Best Wishes!!
Marc DeDario says: Monday, May 30, 2011

Wow! Absolutely amazing pictures you two! You look soooo happy together. All of the best of luck to yous guys in the future! Jen you look beautiful and Mike you look awesome bro! Congrats again to you both! Hope to see you soon to have a proper cheers!
Lynn & Kevin says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Lovely!!
Kevin & Lynn says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Lovely!
Brian says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Congrats, Awesome spot. Love the pics. Did you guys get some fishing in?

Brenda Neavez says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Congratulations Mike and Jen! May you have a wonderful life together.
Jen Rose says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Amazing photos, LOVE them - Congrats Mike!!
Barbara says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Gorgeus Pictures!! Love them!
Barbara says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Love the pictures, what a great place! Congrats
Katie says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Stunning views! How amazing!
Barb says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Gorgeus Pictures... Congrats, what a beautiful setting.
Lisa miranda says: Friday, June 3, 2011

Absolutely gorgeous pictures. What a beautiful couple, I have to say. You
Couldn't have picked a better place. Omg, Yosemite
Is such a awesome place to get married. The
Photographer is fantastic. When I see these photos
Of the 2 of you, I get tears of joy in my eyes. Love u both. Mom
Lisa miranda says: Friday, June 3, 2011

Mike and Jen you both look absolutely stunning. The
Pictures are gorgeous. You both look so happy. Patrick takes fantastic pictures. I love his Talent. You two make a beautiful
Couple. God bless you and your wonderful
Future ahead. I love you both very much. Mom
Lisa miranda says: Friday, June 3, 2011

Mike and Jen you both look absolutely stunning. The
Pictures are gorgeous. You both look so happy. Patrick takes fantastic pictures. I love his Talent. You two make a beautiful
Couple. God bless you and your wonderful
Future ahead. I love you both very much. Mom
Lisa miranda says: Friday, June 3, 2011

Mike and Jen you both look absolutely stunning. The
Pictures are gorgeous. You both look so happy. Patrick takes fantastic pictures. I love his Talent. You two make a beautiful
Couple. God bless you and your wonderful
Future ahead. I love you both very much. Mom
susan mandilk says: Saturday, June 4, 2011

Very beautiful pictures!! Congratulations.!
Jeff Hoskins says: Sunday, June 5, 2011

A picture is only as good as what's in it. The scenery here is extraordinary, but what really makes the photos so special are that they contain two people hopelessly in love. Here's to starting your life together. Cheers!
-Jeff
Phil Miranda says: Sunday, June 5, 2011

So very proud of the both of you. Both of you look stunning.
Your wedding pictures are absolutely beautiful. Yosemite was a fabulous
Backdrop that complimented the outstanding work
Of your photographer. Wish you good health and happiness. Love you, Dad
Phil Miranda says: Sunday, June 5, 2011

So very proud of the both of you. Both of you look stunning.
Your wedding pictures are absolutely beautiful. Yosemite was a fabulous
Backdrop that complimented the outstanding work
Of your photographer. Wish you good health and happiness. Love you, Dad
Phil Miranda says: Sunday, June 5, 2011

So very proud of the both of you. Both of you look stunning.
Your wedding pictures are absolutely beautiful. Yosemite was a fabulous
Backdrop that complimented the outstanding work
Of your photographer. Wish you good health and happiness. Love you, Dad
Phil Miranda says: Sunday, June 5, 2011

So very proud of the both of you. Both of you look stunning.
Your wedding pictures are absolutely beautiful. Yosemite was a fabulous
Backdrop that complimented the outstanding work
Of your photographer. Wish you good health and happiness. Love you, Dad
Phil Miranda says: Sunday, June 5, 2011

So very happy and proud of both of you. You both
Look absolutely stunning. Yosemite backdrop enhanced the talent
Of your photographer. Much happiness and health. Love you, Dad
Jill says: Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Very Beautiful!
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202
Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Christina and Mike
May 27, 2011
| Elopements | Weddings
Last weekend was the busiest weekend in Yosemite so far this year. Beautiful weather drew visitors from far and near to Yosemite while the late season snow closed off Tuolumne Meadows and Glacier Point, restricting tourists to the valley. But that same snowfall brought thundering waterfalls and lush green meadows to the valley for everyone to enjoy.

Christina and Mike had flown out to Yosemite from Florida to marry on Sunday and wanted to explore the park firsthand to find the perfect spot for their ceremony. Try as they might, as they searched on Saturday nearly every place they went was swarmed with tourists.

On Sunday when I met with Christina and Mike shortly before their schedule ceremony they still didn't know where their ceremony would be. They were hoping to find an exclusive spot with gorgeous views, but without countless tourists pouring by. I told them I knew just the place and just like that we went on a short walk together to their perfect place.

Standing with their family (and their poodle in a tux) in that open meadow, Rev. Michael Ireland led a short ceremony that was both wonderfully intimate and approachable. Yosemite Falls roared in the background while gentle wind pulled through the trees and grasses. It was just them, surrounded by their loved ones all alone in Yosemite. Christina and Mike were at ease, with each other, and in love.

Once we set out on our own after the ceremony, the photography took on a totally collaborative process. Christina, Mike and I were sharing ideas and trying new things together. Those of you that I have worked with before know that one of the things I love most about digital photography is being able to show my clients the photographs as we take them. We were able to work together, looking at the back of my camera to make sure that Christina and Mike were getting everything they wanted and more. I absolutely loved this creative process that we took on.

Of course all of that should say more about Christina and Mike than anything else. They soak in every aspect of life to the fullest, never taking a back seat. They are the ones trying to experience everything that they can together because their love and zest for life is only matched in each other. The stories that they shared with me on our afternoon together emphasized that even more. I can't wait to catch up with them in the future to hear where they have taken life.

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Emily says: Friday, May 27, 2011

These are awesome. I love the half dome picture. and the chapel picture is adorable.

Christina says: Friday, May 27, 2011

Thank you Patrick! The pictures are amazing! I couldn't be any happier with the results. Mike and I had an amazing time during our photo session. Thank you for making it such a memorable experience!

Mike says: Friday, May 27, 2011

Patrick! Thank you for capturing our special moment so perfectly. I've been anxiously waiting for these picture to be uploaded and I was so happy to see these amazing photos today, I can't wait to see the rest! Thank you again!
Rose says: Friday, May 27, 2011

These pictures are stunning!!! I am happy to have been a part of the beautiful wedding. Patrick, you captured the day perfectly!
Jain says: Friday, May 27, 2011

W-O-W! All these photos are breathtaking and perfectly capture Tina and Mike in Yosemite. I love the waterfall and bridge photos. Honestly, the whole family couldn't stop talking about how nice and easy going you were through out the whole day. Each one of your photos is a keepsake -- thank you!

Warren Schwartz says: Sunday, May 29, 2011

Stunning! These photographs seem to capture not only the obvious beauty of the setting, but also the love and unity between Tina and Mike.
Jenny Park says: Sunday, May 29, 2011

These pictures are AMAZING! You guys both look great. I am very happy that we were all able to share the special moment with you two. Love you guys!
Grace Kim says: Sunday, May 29, 2011

congratulations christina & mike!! the pictures are absolutely STUNNING!!
Naoko says: Monday, May 30, 2011

OMG! what wonderful pictures!! They are the most incredible pictures I've ever seen for wedding pictures. Great locations, too. I really like Tina's dress ;-)
Kaz says: Monday, May 30, 2011

Congrats, Tina and Mike. I can't wait to see you guys again and all of the pictures. By far these are the best pictures I've seen.

Elizabeth Kim says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Tina you look beautiful!!! Mike- you "alright"- JK!!! Both of you guys look wonderful and the scenery looks amazing!!! Congratulations!
Marilou Halim says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Congratulations! The pictures truly reflect your happiness. Best wishes!
Liz Mahin says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

What a beautiful wedding! These are absolutely stunning pictures!

Congratulations and best wishes!

Liz
Alisa Kuso says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Congratulations!!! The pictures are absolutely stunning!!!!!!!
Crystal says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

These pictures are absolutely amazing! You two look so happy together! Congratulations!
Louis says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

These pictures are stunning! I hope that you have many more days with as much joy and peace as are clearly reflected in these photographs. Congratulations!
Victor C says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

You guys picked a great place for the wedding.
Congratulations and best wishes!
Songki Kim says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Congrats Mike!!! Wishing you guys the best!!!
Bernadette says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

The pictures are beautiful! Thank you so very much for sharing. I wish for you both much happiness!
Kirk H says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Those are beautiful pictures! I really like the scenery. Congratulations on your wedding! I wish you two much peace and happiness for the future!
Priyanka says: Thursday, June 2, 2011

Ok, I just shed a tear at work looking at these. Tina and Mike I am so happy for you and so excited to see you soon! You guys are too cute, The pictures are absulotely breathtaking. Tina, I love your dress!
Leah says: Thursday, June 2, 2011

Congratulations Tina and Mike! Your pictures are stunning and you both look so happy and complete with one another. I wish you the best of luck in all the things to come!

grace says: Thursday, June 2, 2011

congratulations!! beautiful pictures!!
Vivian says: Thursday, June 2, 2011

These are spectacular pictures. I know they will be treasured for many years to come.
Amanda and Allie says: Thursday, June 2, 2011

we just wanted to say these are all soo amzing!!
Allison says: Thursday, June 2, 2011

Ok theres are amazingly awesome!!!
Christine Soo says: Thursday, June 2, 2011

Breathtaking photos!! I can't wait to visit Yosemite now.

Erin McKissic says: Friday, June 3, 2011

Congratulations and Best Wishes!
Hannah says: Saturday, June 4, 2011

Absolutely gorgeous!! I can't wait to see the rest of pictures. Thanks Patrick.

Nancy Gallo says: Monday, June 6, 2011

Mike & Tina, I know your life will be as Beautiful as these pictures you have shared. Best Wihes, Nancy
Peter says: Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Spectacular photos!! You did an amazing job.

Calvin says: Thursday, June 9, 2011

Amazing backdrops to these wedding photos! I'm sure the scenery only enhanced their special day together that will forevermore be remembered.

Sarah Kim says: Thursday, June 9, 2011

Congrats Mike and Christina! Looks like it was a beautiful ceremony, amazing pictures! Best wishes!
Phil Kite says: Friday, June 10, 2011

Congratulations! A spectacular location to begin your commitment to each other! God Bless!
Joshua says: Friday, June 10, 2011

Great photos! Congrats!
Tracy Yam says: Friday, June 10, 2011

Congratulations!! These pictures are awesome! Liz loves you guys!
Maria says: Friday, June 10, 2011

Beautiful Pictures!
Christina says: Friday, June 10, 2011

These pictures are amazing!! So beautiful.
Jason ohl says: Saturday, June 18, 2011

Man awesome pic and congrats on getting hitched are you going to be coming back for the reunion?
Emily says: Saturday, June 18, 2011

the pictures are spectacular - what a beautiful wedding! sending my congratulations to you both and my wishes for a future full of love, happiness, and much success!
Kelley K. says: Saturday, June 18, 2011

Absolutely gorgeous!!! Congratulations!

Mike Ireland says: Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Patrick's photos of you two in Yosemite are truly remarkable...awe-inspiring. And so are the expressions on your faces as you experience the first day of your married life surrounded by one of nature's great treasures. Thenk you for asking me to be part of your Special Day--and remember to love each other every day as you loved each other the day you were married.

Paul says: Thursday, June 23, 2011

Great pictures! Congrats Mike and Christina!
Robert Hargopian says: Friday, June 24, 2011

These are beautiful pictures!! Congratulations on your wedding!!
Lul says: Saturday, December 31, 2011

OMG, WE HAVE THE SAME WEDDING DAY! The photos are breathtakingly beautiful! I am so happy for you and Mike! You guys make such a gorgeous couple! I pray that you have a blessed marriage with the courage and patience to overcome the challenges. Always know you're one of the most beautiful people I know inside and out. And no matter the distance, I will always cherish our friendship (I still have the card you sent me:)).

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201
Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Julie and Andrew
May 25, 2011
| Weddings
It seems like both ages ago and at the same time only yesterday when I was last with Julie and Andrew in Yosemite for their engagement photos. A lot has happened since that day, lots and lots of hard work and planning for one very important wedding. Together they had planned to have a small intimate destination wedding in Yosemite Valley for them to celebrate their wedding with close friends and family, and they succeeded. 

Julie was upstairs with her mother and sister in her room at the Ahwahnee when I arrived. Her sister was pulling triple duty as maid of honor, makeup artist, and loving sister. With only the three of them in the room, there was already a unique sense of a family wedding in the air. Embraces and jokes were shared equally as they only can be within family. Meanwhile Andrew was spending the morning with his family eagerly awaiting the moment when he would see his bride for the first time. Neither Julie nor Andrew were outwardly nervous; an excitement seemed to fill them both for the moment when their new life together that would begin.

As guests began to arrive at the chapel they were treated to the music of Andrew's brother in law who was playing a piano. Flowers and candles elegantly decorated the interior of the chapel setting the perfect stage for their ceremony. Eventually Julie made her way down the aisle, kissed her mother, and stood next to the man she would marry. Julie was a stunning bride. Keeping with the style of the wedding, they were married by Julie's godfather in a perfectly intimate ceremony.

Left on their own after the ceremony, Julie and Andrew strolled through the meadows of Yosemite with a constant look of love and contentment across their faces. Everyplace we went they were totally wrapped in love with each other. Even total strangers couldn't help but stop to tell them how beautiful they were together.

A while later we made our way to the reception at the Lodge which had been decorated in an understate yet sophisticated style. Guests were greeted with a sign noting the creation of a new family. Wonderful details and special touches like this were splashed throughout, but perhaps my favorite was the new hand painted mailbox for their home. Guests were asked to share their thoughts on marriage and love on one of several postcards. With such a small intimate wedding, I can only imagine how perfectly appropriate the advice must have been.

Everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner in each other's company. As an outsider to the group, I couldn't help but notice how everyone at every table seemed so excited to share a meal together. There was a perfect sense of family, community and love. Of course, all of this was just the precursor to the dance floor. From the moment that the DJ started spinning to the last song of the night, this small group of friends and family was busy celebrating love.

It really is an honor for me to be able to share in days like this. Julie and Andrew radiate authenticity and love not only for life and family, but also for each other. Together they created their perfect destination wedding in Yosemite, and now they are busy created the rest of their lives together. I wish you both the best of life!

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Dennis Pike says: Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Really wonderful job on this. That first photo of them in the field and the one of the two of them in front of the water are absolutely breathtaking.
Ted says: Wednesday, May 25, 2011

The cavern scene (or at least what looks like a cavern scene where the light source was localized near the bottom.) I think I love that one.

Patrick says: Thursday, May 26, 2011

Thanks Dennis & Ted! The "cavern" is actually a huge granite boulder that they are standing next to. The texture of the granite and the lichen growing on it give off a great texture here.
Julie Milham says: Wednesday, June 8, 2011

These are amazing! Everyone I show these photos to comments on how well you captured the love that was in the air (and still is!). Thank you for being part of our big day. I can't wait to see the rest!
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Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Holly and Chris
May 20, 2011
| Elopements | Weddings
Even though we were all together in Yosemite for the afternoon, Holly and Chris were all alone. It really was just the two of them, in each others arm, whispering in each others ears, and walking hand in hand through the meadows. At least that is what I saw on their faces. Everywhere we went there was a childlike playfulness with both of them. Pure love and thankfulness for the chance to share their lives with each other.

A few days earlier Holly and Chris traveled from the beaches of Florida to Yosemite, to exchange their vows in a place neither had never been before. Holly is an incredibly talented wedding photographer herself, so it was pretty cool to me that when she planned her wedding she decided to elope. I think it really says something about a couple when you are around high-end weddings all the time and choose a simple wedding for yourself. Of course when they planned this all out, they probably never thought that it would be freezing cold and snowing, but to me it just adds to the beauty of their wedding.

On their wedding day Yosemite was in motion. Clouds raced across the sky at one moment blocking the sun, the next showering us in hail. Moments before their ceremony it was raining, but it stopped long enough for Holly and Chris to exchange their vows at the edge of Cook's Meadow. The ceremony was all about them; when it came time for them to share their vows, both Rev. Autrey Nassar and I stepped away for them. While I did not listen to their vows, the love on their faces said all that needed to be said.

After their ceremony we continued to travel around Yosemite valley a bit as the weather continued to change around us. It left us with snow capped mountains, dramatic light, and gorgeous skies; all for Holly and Chris to enjoy. It was amazing to see so many different faces of Yosemite. 

Small weddings really are beautiful things. I keep saying how special it is to strip a wedding down to it's core, the love between two people, and focus on just that. Holly and Chris are wonderful people, deeply in love and devoted to each other. The funny thing was though, that even if it had been snowing during their ceremony that would have been okay too. So long as as they had each other, everything else was small stuff.

Hair and Makeup: Bellissimo
Holly's Website: Holly Clarke Photography


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Holly says: Friday, May 20, 2011

Patrick - WOW, I don't even know what to say. When I saw that you posted this we were out and about and I begged some poor lady to borrow her computer so I could glance at these really quickly. Now that we're looking at them I can't stop staring at each one. Thank you for capturing us so perfectly. You were a joy to work with and so much fun. We could not be happier. There is always a place for you and your family to stay in sunny FL!
Chris says: Friday, May 20, 2011

Thanks so much! the pictures are absolutely amazing. Thanks for all the extra effort- and I'll send some Florida beers your way as soon as we get back. - Chris
Tannen says: Friday, May 20, 2011

Incredible pictures, and I really enjoyed reading the story of your day together. What a nice way to start your life together! Thanks to Patrick for caturing my friends, their beauty, and their hearts...
Patrick says: Friday, May 20, 2011

Thank you Holly and Chris so much for letting me be a part of this special day! Always treasure these photographs and let them remind you of why you had these smiles on your faces. I hope to join you one day in the future for that beer in Florida - cheers.
Patrick says: Friday, May 20, 2011

Thank you so much for sharing the love and your kind words Tannen!
John says: Saturday, May 21, 2011

These photos are gorgeous! No, they are stunning!! Better than our wildest dreams.

Thanks so much for doing this.
Ann says: Saturday, May 21, 2011

We were so pleased to see these amazing pictures today. What a magnificent display of God's handiwork. Thank you for documenting and sharing pictures of our precious son and his beautiful bride!
Linda Lee says: Saturday, May 21, 2011

What absolutely beautiful pictures! Holly and Chris, you show the joy of your love in your faces, and the magnificent scenery just adds to the beauty of your wedding. You will cherish these pictures for a lifetime. Thank you for sharing. Congratulations and best wishes. We are so looking forward to celebrating at your party....!!!
Cliff - Jacksonville says: Saturday, May 21, 2011

Holly and Chris made Yosemite even more beautiful.
Carol Cardinale says: Saturday, May 21, 2011

Fabulous! Holly and Chris were such amazing people Patrick! You truly captured every nuance of their love!
On another note Holly and Chris...I met a friend of yours at a wedding in Wawona this weekend (Saturday) Marissa says congrats! Small world!
Gina Zeidler says: Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Simply beautiful and amazing. Holly nothing makes me SO happy!!!
Consuela says: Friday, May 27, 2011

Mr. Pike these are the most amazing photos I have ever seen. They are all the perfect shots taken with A1 perfection. I am so happy to see two beautiful people such as Chris and Holly inside and out come together as a family. Your work is breath taking.
Patrick says: Friday, May 27, 2011

Thank you so much everyone for sharing your love!
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