the blog

Before getting into Karen and Noah’s beautiful Shelldance Orchid Garden wedding, let’s go back in time a few years… specifically, three years. Around this time in 2012, to begin focusing on my photography career and business, I had just left the architecture industry and the firm where I had called my professional home since 2008. A few months prior to my departure, a beautiful young woman with a killer style and a great smile began working at that same office.

A short time later, she’d begin dating a nice, brilliant gent called Noah–whom I didn’t actually meet until much later. But every once in a while when Karen and I would catch up over coffee or burgers (not at the same time), she’d speak fondly of this Noah. They both had a passion for music, incredibly relaxed personalities and seemed to just mesh well together. As the years went by, Karen and I became closer friends and she had said in passing at some point that if she were to get married, she’d hire me. It’s the kind of heartfelt statement that a lot of people make in support of what I do, but doesn’t always work out that way.

So last fall when she told me she had gotten engaged and wanted me to photograph the wedding I was super excited. Karen was a the DIY type with palpable excitement around the design and style of her wedding. She took on the task of designing the event which built off the already lush environment of the Shelldance Orchid Gardens. Handmade signs were crafted by the coordinator, Madison Kahuli of Parties on Parties, while Karen made her own bouquets and guest favors and oversaw the layout of the space. She styled each of her bridesmaids uniquely, bucking the trend of traditional bridesmaid dresses. Her own couture dress was designed by Suzanne Hanley of Atelier des Modistes. Karen and Noah’s wedding was not only beautifully styled, but also incredibly emotional and joyful. I was so honored to be able to play a part in their wedding and had a great time with the VIPs throughout the day. And I’m really happy to share some of my favorite photos from their Shelldance Orchid Garden wedding. Congrats Karen and Noah!!