Victor+Kristin: Engaged

Victor and Kristin were part of the same circle of friends for a couple of years. But after serving along side one another at church, Victor began to see his feelings for Kristin start to solidify. To him, she was beautiful inside and out.

They went on a casual lunch date, but by the end, Victor realized Kristin wasn’t quite getting the “date” part. Not one to be discouraged, he shared his feelings with Kristin and then again asked her out. This time on a real date. “Can I think about it?” she responded.

While most would expect a sense of rejection, Victor gladly accepted, “She didn’t say no so that was good enough for me.” After navigating her fears and her curiosity, Kristin accepted his invitation. It didn’t take long for her to finally see Victor as more than just a co-worker and friend. Her feelings for him were real. Much realer than their real first date.

Victor and Kristin, it’s easy to see just how in love the two of you are. And it’s even easier to see why. We had so much fun photographing the two of you that we felt the session was too short. We just wanted to keep hanging out! We are thrilled to be photographing your wedding this November simply because we’re excited at the opportunity to celebrate the two of you again.

Balck and white image of a girl leaning on her fiancee's shoulderEngagement session in North Beach. Guy twirling his fiance.A couple dancing on the street in North Beach, San Francisco, CAEngaged couple holding hands in North Beach neighborhood in San Francisco.Balck and white images of the couple hugging with San Francisco street lights in the background

Birthday Week

Friday is Vitaliy’s birthday. My Mustache Man is going to be 29 years old.

I have planned a full birthday week for Vitaliy. I stole the idea from my dear friend Missy and I’m sharing it here in case you want to use it for your beloved. The basic idea is to do a little something each day to lead up to the actual birthday. Missy recommended picking a theme and then designing the daily gifts/activities around that concept.

After a few demanding weeks, I decided the theme for Vitaliy’s birthday week would be RELAXATION. On Monday, he took the day off and I treated him to a movie that night. Tuesday I took him to a cigar shop. For Vitaliy, there’s nothing more relaxing then smoking the occasional cigar while sipping on a glass of Scotch. Wednesday was a Thai foot massage. Of course, I’m enjoying this birthday week too.

I won’t divulge the rest of my plans, but you get the idea. I have thoroughly enjoyed this idea! I am the worst birthday rememberer- planner-celebrator ever. They always sneak up on me and I never have enough time or energy to execute any of the brilliant ideas I think of. This has felt extremely doable and makes the celebrating last so much longer than just a day.

What other themes would you suggest? I want to be ready for next year!

P.S. I’m also giving Vitaliy a break from assisting me with the blog. As a result, this will be the only post for the week. Please wish Vitaliy a Happy, Happy Birthday and we’ll see you next week!

Sean+Dana
15 Year Vow Renewal

Dana walked into the college campus fellowship night as if it were any other night. As her eyes scanned the room, they quickly landed on the gentleman playing the guitar. They had not yet met, but she thought to herself, “I’m going to marry that guy.” A real story of love at first sight.

The handsome guitar player was Sean. And the thought Dana had that night did come true. The two quickly became friends, fell in love, and got married. When you find the one you want to spend the rest of your life with, you want the rest of your life to start right now. I stole that line from When Harry Met Sally.

They promised their lives to one another in the home where Dana grew up. 15 years later, they renewed those vows at the very same place with all of their original wedding guests. Well, almost. This time their daughter and two sons joined them for the special occasion.

Sean and Dana, your vow renewal was beyond what I could have ever imagined. It was romantic, sentimental, and downright fun. Thank you for inviting us to not only be a part of documenting the day, but also a part of celebrating the two of you. Your love is strong and sweet and I’m confident you’ll be celebrating for years to come. We love you!

Couple kissing in the driveway - the place where they first kissedSan Mateo backyard 15 year vow renewalCouple embracing with the wedding ringCouple kissing each other with their kids around them watchingFamily portrait on the front porch of the house