To be back around people filled with joy, to be surrounded by love, to be in a wildly picturesque California valley . . . after this last year and a half, it’s hard to put into words just how good this felt. To be photographing Katie and Jessi, the two of the most beautiful people inside and out, made this one of my favorite weekends, personal or professional, in a long time.

These stunning brides chose to shape their wedding in the way that felt best to them, opting for lots of time with family and friends at the resort, on strolls through the vineyard, during the cocktail hour nestled against the hills, at a glowing dinner, and side-by-side at the ultimate karaoke night. It was so clear how important community – both born into and built – are to these two. And the fact that they were able to celebrate their marriage alongside so many of their people in person made it an incredible day to be a part of.

Photographing a wedding is part whirlwind and part meditation- for 8 hours, I'm thinking about nothing else besides the place I'm in, the people in front of me, and shooting them as well as possible. But Kate and Garrett's recent celebration went so far beyond that- it felt like being in another world. Just 15 minutes from the coast, their venue, with its verdant groves, winding paths and abundance of twinkle lights, was a magical hideaway and a perfect place to gather all of their people for a wedding weekend.

As I looked through their photos, I realized how the vibrant color palette of the day- these deep greens, reds, and blues- totally reflected the spirit of the couple. Kate and Garrett are sweet, bright, energetic- I feel like they're full of smiles every time I see them. Their adventurous nature was reflected in many of their details- from the table signage highlighting the many trips they've taken together to the notecards asking guests to share their favorite destinations. And shooting them in California with their family and friends was given extra significance by the fact that they're moving to Germany together this summer! They are clearly so loved by the people in their lives and so in love with each other and it was such a joy to be part of the day!

Wedding Venue: The Holly Farm / Caterer: La Creme / Florist: Big Sur Flowers / Hair and Makeup Artists: Kim Larson / DJ: DJ Antonio of California Soundshine / Wedding Dress: Nicole Miller