I first met Jennifer while photographing her sister’s wedding a few years ago. Let me tell you folks, she and this family were just as wonderful as I remembered. Then, when I met Shannon while photographing their engagement session in San Francisco last year I knew this special woman had found a very wonderful man. That’s why I was itching to get them in front of the camera again for their big day!!
The Story: Jennifer said she was instantly attracted to Shannon’s kind heart, his height (she’s tall) and cute side burns. She loved his passion for animals, family, adventure and his is willingness to put his life at risk to save others (he’s a fireman). She loved how things just clicked when they met. It had never been easy right out of the gate with anyone. Simply put, she felt at home with him.
Shannon said he was captivated by Jennifer’s smile, it could light up a room, and their very, pleasant conversations. He loved learning about how much she cherished family, friends and living life. He also was drawn to how Jennifer was a feminine woman but wasn’t afraid to go out, get a little dirty and have fun. Plus, he said he was shocked when he saw her tall stature and her long legs!
The Proposal: On their first date, they met at Mikuni’s for dinner in midtown Sacramento. After great conversation, their date continued as they walked around the state capital building until they finally ended the night at the rose garden. Here, Shannon gave Jennifer the biggest hug… but Jennifer said she was secretly was hoping for a kiss :) On the proposal night, Shannon set up a mid-week, date night and they went to Jennifer’s favorite wine bar for dinner. Shannon suggested they go for a walk around the capital like they did on their first date. He took her back to the rose garden and they walked around looking at the pretty flowers. Shannon asked Jennifer to find her favorite rose, and while she was looking, got down on one knee and proposed and she said yes! Shannon had invited Jennifer’s parents and sister and brother in law to meet them after to celebrate at the Shady Lady. It was the best night!
The Wedding: Jennifer said she didn’t really have a theme but knew she wanted to take advantage of the natural beauty of Northern California. Simple, timeless elegance was the vibe she ended up going for by playing off the natural landscape. She integrated wood planters, lanterns, candles and a little mercury glass to add some fanciness in the ceremony and reception areas. They both agreed on a neutral grey for the groomsman and pewter for the bridesmaid dresses and added a pop of color in the flowers with oranges, pinks, and corals. Jennifer’s chic vibe was capped off with her dress. It was timeless yet contemporary- intricate tulle with a lace overlay in a mermaid silhouette. The bottom had a scalloped lace hem with a strapless top. She said she absolutely loved her dress and wish she could wear it again!
For their first dance, they grooved to Stand By Me- a classic (they had a country song picked out they love, but it just wasn’t quite right for the moment). She said she always loved Stand By Me and when she played it for Shannon and he agreed it was perfect for them. The rest of the evening was filled with killer dancing. Matt the DJ was amazing and kept the dance party going strong all night long. Jennifer said she was sweating like crazy in her wedding dress, but she did not care… especially when Shannon joined her on the dance floor with some amazing dancing!!
The best advice Jennifer has for future brides is to utilize your friends and family (if you don’t hire a planner) and do as much as you can early! No matter what, you always end up having a ton to do last minute so try and knock out the big stuff as early as you can. Relax, breath, and try to be in the moment and enjoy!
Shannon and Jennifer- I LOVED being a part of your wedding day. Thanks so much for choosing me to photograph all your wonderful memories :)
Vendor Love:
Venue- Winchester Country Club / Bride’s Dress- Enzoani Dakota / Bride’s Shoes- Ivanka Trump /Veil- Miosa Bride /
Earrings and Bracelet- Nadri / Makeup Artist-Katie Mueller / Wedding Cake Designer- Freeport Bakery / DJ- Matt Brys / Invitations- Jennifer (she made them herself!) / Florist- Elegant Events by Marie / Jeweler- Kenny G and Guzetta / Men’s Formal Wear- Alfani / Honeymoon Destination- Excellence Riviera Cancun 
