Wherever you choose to say I do, I want to be there with you ;)
OK, total dad joke, but...
I am a hopeful romantic! I channel that when shooting weddings, elopements and engagement shoots. I look for the small gestures between you two while you interact, the way you look at one another in utter comfort and confidence, the way you laugh and crack each other up!
I love observing how couples embrace and find each other's nooks. This is your person, the one that you can be your complete self with, how cool is that! It sounds corny, but being a wedding and elopement photographer really is a privilege. I am almost a complete stranger and I get to be by your closest side on one of the most important days of your lives!
Don't worry, we aren't attached to the hip, I am not going to paparazzi you. I want you to enjoy your day, but I will make sure the important moments are captured so you can relive them forever.
A fun way to warm up your close up skills before the big day. You can book separately or inquire on wedding packages that include a complimentary engagement session. I also offer adventure sessions!
What is an elopement? It's when the focus is on you two! At most you have 10-20 guests. It can be a short day with just ceremony and portraits, or have the full day documented! An elopement deserves the same amount of attention. It can be destination elopement or the San Diego courthouse.I treat them all with the same passion!
There are so many beautiful places to tie the knot in. Forests, wineries, beaches, etc! Nothing thrills me more than a beautiful outdoor ceremony where the light just gushes in as you exchange your vows! Trust me, you will know, when it's time for that magic hour glow, you will hear me cheering YASSS!
"Where do I start besides my wedding would not have been the same without Melissa. My whole family, and husband fell in love with her. I saw her pictures and could not believe her exquisite use of lighting (brides you know what I mean). You won't go wrong with her. Day of our wedding--she put our minds at ease. She took charge, made us laugh and comfortable during photos, and made it all a breeze. A true professional. Can't believe we found her. You'll be lucky if she's not already booked on your day."
Rancho Bernardo Inn Wedding
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Contact Me
Even if you just got engaged or if you already have your venue set, it's never too early to start discussing your photos. I know the wedding planning process can be overwhelming and you might feel like you don't even know what you should be asking or needing. You might even want to put off searching for a photographer. Rest assured, I will help guide you through the timeline + logistics of your wedding day. I also am happy to share with you my vendor suggestions should you still need some. I want to make this as fun and easy for you as possible. It's never too early to contact me to check my availability.
BOOK
Once contact has been established, I will send you my Wedding Timeline Checklist so you can confirm the amount of wedding coverage you would like to book me for. I am always happy to discuss this via a phone call, email or in person meet. If you are out of state/country, we can video chat :) Once all details are confirmed I will send you over the contract electronically to sign.
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Wedding Walk Thru
From time of booking till the wedding day, and even after wedding day, we are always in communication. If you ever need anything never hesitate to ask. Within two weeks of your wedding date I like to do a wedding walk thru on site. Ideally at your ceremony time. Here we can confirm timeline, portrait locations, family portrait group combinations and any other items pending. If you are out of town we can facetime too.
Wedding Day + Post
Yay! The day is finally here. I always arrive early to check in with you and get a final lay of the land. I will be your confidant, comedian and hype woman all day. I will make sure you stay hydrated with water + bubbly :) Within 48 hours you will get some sneek peeks from me. Final edited gallery will be delievered within 3 weeks. CHEERS!!
