I believe that it is meant to be with people.  We are meant to have these interactions – whether they may be brief or for a lifetime, positive or negative.  This is the feeling I had when I first received an email from Emi regarding wedding photography.  How is it that she was able to find me right after I had a baby with the exact same name?  I felt like something must have brought us to work together and that the universe was screaming, “You must photograph this wedding!”  So I was very ecstatic when Emi wanted me to be a part of her and David’s courthouse wedding in Laguna Hills.

Emi and David had a private courthouse wedding and it was such a joy to see them hold hands, look into each other’s eyes, and commit in their love and friendship.  There was this tenderness and intimacy that I felt like I was intruding on, but the two of them didn’t notice me because Emi and David were in their world, embracing the new adventure that lies before them.  Nothing could disrupt that moment – not even my camera! – and all I could do was smile behind the lens.

After the ceremony, we headed over to Balboa Pier to take some photos to celebrate their marriage.  Despite it being windy, it was a pleasure getting to know Emi and David more and to hear about the significance of Balboa Pier.  While dating, they frequently would visit and Emi and David even have a bench that is memorable.  I loved hearing the story of how a man offered the two of them bread and they politely declined, confused by whether they potentially looked hungry or homeless (I laughed at the latter when David told the story).  It turned out that the bread offer was to feed the birds.  That one incident makes Emi and David look back and laugh.  I am sure this is just one of many more memories to come.

Emi and David, congratulations to the two of you!  Thank you for allowing me to be a part of such a special moment.  I wish the two of you a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and funny memories and stories to share.  Enjoy the reception in San Diego and I wish the two of you the best!