Bianka and Michael | Orange County Engagement

I've known Bianka ever since she was...hrrmmm, about seven years old.  Her sister and I were good friends in high school and when I'd come over to hang out, Bianka was all eager to spend time with us :).  She's all grown up and gorgeous now, getting married in just a few months!  I cannot believe how fast time goes by, seems to go faster now more than ever.  

This shoot was originally scheduled to take place at a nearby regional park.  Unfortunately, the park was closed due to very muddy conditions from heavy rain the night before.  We were crossing our fingers the clouds wouldn't burst during our shoot.  Luckily they didn't and we managed to find a plan B location in downtown Orange and Santa Ana that worked out perfectly!  We even managed to get some sun and beautiful warm light towards the end of the shoot!! 

Bianka's friend Jessica came along for the shoot and did Bianka's hair and makeup.  She did an amazing job!  Three styles for three different looks.  I even got some ideas for myself ;).  

I loved Bianka's DIY props!!! 

I love this lighting and their poses are to die for!!  

Bianka is quite the baker and wanted to highlight that during her shoot.

More DIY props.  This one was my favorite! 

A small tree just beginning to grow...symbolic of their love!  Starts with strong roots and will continue growing into a beautiful tree. 

Bianka and Michael | Sneak a Peek | Orange, California Engagement Session

Stefanie and Greg Engagement | Balboa Fun Zone, Corona Del Mar

I had the pleasure of photographing Stefanie and Greg for their engagement session.  I've known Stefanie since high school and when she inquired about photography I was like, heck yeah.

Her and Greg were so prepared and were a photographers delight to work with.  They found the perfect settings that would suit their personality and looked fantastic in their choice of clothing. We started out at Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach for some fun shots with the ferris wheel.  As we walked along we also found this super cute candy store with a huge inventory of various candies.  We bought a long, twirly lolly pop as a prop but I think it backfired on us.  Greg was literally glued to it and could not stop having some...luckily, he did not get those blue lips we were afraid he would get  :).  Afterwards we headed over towards the beach for some casual/romantic shots under the pier.  Poor Stefanie...at this point it was pretty cold and she was feeling it.  But she did an amazing job, you can never tell by looking at the pictures.  Following these shots we headed over to Corona Del Mar.  The temperature here was much more pleasing and the scenery...just GORGEOUS!  It was at this point where we started getting pretty hungry as we had shot our way past lunch time.  You would think we were starving because we could not stop talking about our many cravings...BJ's pizza, pastrami sandwiches at The Hat (of which I still need to try...Stefanie and Greg raved about their food), sushi...you name it.  I definitely got my fix of food that night, lol.  Congrats again Stefanie and Greg!!!  You guys are so cute together and I LOVED shooting your engagement portraits.  ox!      

Adel and Mashel's Engagement Party

Alan and I had the opportunity to document Adel and Mashel's eventful engagement celebration.  Mashel looked beautiful in her colorful hijab...she's going to make for one beautiful bride!!  It was very nice to see how supportive their family and friends were.  They were excited to witness this celebration and were eager to capture it on film.  At one point I felt like I was surrounded by paparazzi...family and friends literally created a circle around them during the exchange of the rings and I had no idea because I was right smack in the middle.  Good times!  Congrats again Adel and Mashel!!!    

 Mashel looked beautiful!  

Mashel seemed a little nervous as her family made their way towards the celebration for the grand entrance.  

 Adel's nieces recited the opening prayer...they did such a nice job!

 Adel seems proud! 

 Adel's niece was a magnet to the altar the entire night!  She could not get enough from the bride and groom :D.  Nice shots Alan!