Jake + Sierra

I can't tell whether it's the way he looks at her, or the shy, coy, sideways glances she gives to him. Whether it's the way he kisses her forehead while running his fingers through her hair, or the way she holds his hand and refuses to let go, ever. Whatever it is, Jake and Sierra love in a way that captures even the most unsuspecting of hearts. Their love makes everyone around them want to be near. Watching as they walk through life experiencing love the way it was supposed to be felt - authentic and real with such childlike zeal you can't help but smile. Oh, Friends! It makes my heart so happy to see you two together! Never have I been more certain that two people were really, truly created for one another. I know beyond all shadow of a doubt that your future holds many an exciting adventure. Adventures complete with evening campfires, a few toasted marshmallows, and an extra large supply of cuddling : ).

xoxo, Michelle

We began Jake + Sierra's Central Oregon engagement session at Todd Lake with a perfectly secluded view of Mt. Bachelor.

Jake + Sierra, thank you for trusting me. For relaxing and letting the afternoon unfold naturally. And more than anything, thank you for being you - sweet, adoring, shamelessly in love you.

Isn't Simon the most adorable thing you've ever seen? Jake and Sierra, you're pretty cute, too : )

After getting just what we needed at Todd Lake, we headed north a few miles to the nearby Sparks Lake. It was here that Jake and Sierra settled in for the evening with Simon, a guitar, and an ever cozy campfire.

Sierra, I can't believe you get to listen to Jake's incredible voice and guitar skills for the rest of your life! Can I, like, maybe, come over sometime and listen, too?!

An Adventure!

In other news, aren't Jake + Sierra irresistibly adorable? Their ever so sweet engagement session will be hitting the blog Wednesday.

Happy Monday, Michelle

Jesse + Justine

They were from two different high schools, something that during adolescence feels more like two different worlds. But as fate would have it they met. And fell in like. And then in Love. And though they went on to different colleges, they fought to not let the distance between them separate their hearts. When Jesse finished school and went on to the Marine Corps’ Basic School in Virginia, it was time for Justine to come, too. And again, last spring when Jesse began flight school in Florida, Justine was by his side the entire way. Last Saturday, in front of friends, family, a Marine Corps sword arch, and the back drop of Oahu’s North Shore, Jesse and Justine vowed to love each other for better or worse, through thick and thin, and come rain or shine. And despite the torrential down pours and impending winds, the pair just kept smiling – overjoyed that the day had finally come when they would marry their best friend.

The couple planned a dreamy affair at Oahu's Sunset Ranch. With rolling hills, rustic barns, and a breathtaking view of the ocean, the day was off to a pretty wonderful start...

I'm shamelessly in love with this ring. Ever since I first met Justine last fall I've been looking forward to photographing her gorgeous engagement bling. Is that weird? A little creepy? Maybe.

Jesse's reaction to seeing his bride for the first time was one of the sweetest and most emotional reactions I've had the honor of experiencing.

You two are perfect.

Before the ceremony we had a time for a few bridal party pictures outside. During which the sun decided to make a much welcomed appearance!

Ceremony time!

Oh, what was that? You wanted to see some more of Justine's bling? Mmmk, I think I can arrange that.

And then it was time to par-tay - something Jesse + Justine's friends and family know how to do extra well.

Jesse + Justine, I cannot tell you how blessed I feel to have photographed your wedding. You two, along with your absolutely wonderful friends and family, made me feel more welcomed and at home than I can even express in words. Your love is so, so sweet and it was an honor to capture it over the course of your day. Thanks Mahalo a millions time over and welcome to the start of forever!!

Lots of love, Michelle