Photography: Amelia Strauss - Bound By

Venue: The Cloister at Sea Island

When I first met Sherma for coffee in the Valley, we bonded over many things, specifically our relationships with our grandmothers, and really didn’t talk too much about her upcoming nuptials at all.

Once we started talking specifics about working together over the next couple of weeks, I was incredibly impressed with Sherma’s wedding plans. She was going to marry Arash at the gorgeous Hummingbird Nest Ranch outside of Los Angeles, and had a hands-on approach to her design, taking on many DIY projects with the goal of being as involved as possible in making their big day feel exactly like it should.

I loved how everything came together for this amazing wedding - intimate, intricate, elegant, and yet still very personal and inviting. Wow. What an incredible introduction to my first experience documenting a Persian wedding. The traditions and symbolism were not only touching, but inspiring in their rich meanings. I adored every minute of my weekend with Sherma and Arash, and their friends and family.

Hope you all enjoy a look into this beautiful wedding, and congratulations to the lovely couple!

My little brother got married yesterday and I’m beyond thrilled to be here in Lucca, Italy with Rob and my new sister-in-law Samantha!  Last night we walked through the city and around the wall shooting a night session…here’s a peek at the happy couple:

We absolutely loved this amazing destination wedding from 2011. We had to hold off on sharing these images on our blog because Kelly and Matt’s wedding was featured by the amazing Destination I Do Magazine. I’m so excited to be able to share a peek into this magical day, which has been a long time coming for this blog. Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday weekend and aloha, friends!

Photography: Bound By - Amelia Strauss

Venue: Haiku Mill

Florist: Teresa Sena

Bridesmaids’ Gowns: JS Boutique

Groom’s Clothier: Burberry

Hair + Makeup: Dan Sanchez + Jessica Waite

Ceremony Music: Jamie Lawrence

Catering: From Soup to Nuts

Bar Service: Garnish Events

Erin and Brian…geez, where to start?

Well, simply put, it was quickly apparent to me that Erin would be one of those clients who becomes a fast and lasting friend.  When we first began talking on the phone (which was at minimum an hour long fun-filled venture from the very start), we realized soon after that we unfortunately weren’t going to be able to work together.  Although, that really didn’t trip up our developing relationship much, if at all.  Fast forward a few months and I was absolutely ecstatic to hear from Erin that with changes in date and planning - we now WOULD be working together!  I was thrilled.  Truly.  Couldn’t wait to pack my bag and board a flight to The Big Easy for her gorgeous wedding to her guy, Mr. Brian Young.

I really am probably at a loss for words to describe the intimacy of the weekend and how much respect I have for Erin and Brian’s relationship.  This type of thing is, of course, what keeps me from blogging in the first place.  Let’s just leave it at this:

Erin, as I sit here writing on the eve of Thanksgiving, I’m reminded how truly thankful I am for YOU.  Your friendship and support have been hugely integral to my year - and I couldn’t be more grateful for you and the opportunity to be a part of your life.  You’ve been a blessing to me.  I’m so honored that I got to document this day for you and Brian.  I loved every minute. And I love every image…

• Photography: Bound By / Amelia Strauss
• Hair + Make-Up Artist: Brandy Gomez-Duplessis
• Wedding Gown Designer: Victoria Nicole
• Wedding Shoes: Christian Louboutin
• Veil: Toni Frederici
• Bridesmaids Gowns: Coren Moore
• Floral Design: Bella Blooms
• Ceremony Venue: City Park Pavillion
• Stationary: The Keeping Room
• Calligraphy: Lossi Designs
• Favors: Hubigs Pies
• Ceremony Music: Fine Arts Ensemble
• Band: Robin Barnes and The Soul Heirs
• Cakes: Sophisticakes
• Second Line Handkerchiefs: Backyard Printing