I’m excited anytime I share new wedding photos, but I get really excited when sharing outdoor weddings. Who doesn’t love a spring or summer wedding when you have gorgeous light to work with well into the day. JR and Kara put so much attention into the details that truly made this wedding so beautiful. Everywhere you turn, you could see those little touches from the patterned hearts planted around the grounds to the origami flowers and lights that provided a delightful contrast to the tall redwoods. Even from our first meeting, I could already feel an excitement and kindness that JR and Kara felt for each other and showed the people around them. On their big day, I got the sense that it was a feeling that was shared by everyone in attendance. I felt like the couple really allowed me to capture their love in a very unadulterated and honest way and it’s the connection that allows me to smile and laugh even after running around nonstop all day. Check out their engagement session at the Oakland Coliseum if you haven’t seen it.

I loved the bouquet. Kara’s mother made the bouquet and wrapped it with a piece of fabric that came from her own wedding dress. How thoughtful and sweet.

JR and Kara had their first look down a beautiful wooded path that ran behind the venue. Having seen how beautiful the bride was, I could hardly wait for JR to turn around to catch that first glimpse of his bride-to-be.

The couple had an origami theme for the wedding. I loved the lights and the flowers they made from the decorative Japanese paper.

This is a personal favorite of mine. Even though Kara smiles all the time, this particular one was especially for her parents.

It’s really hard to say who’s happier in this moment. How often do we find couples whose love towards each other feels unyielding and perfectly balanced?

I love the creativity that goes into directing guests to their tables. Each name card had a small origami animal that corresponded with their table assignment.

Those are tears of joy after a warm and touching speech from JR’s brother.

Here’s Kara throwing down, but don’t be fooled, JR is a dancing machine.

The party can only officially start when someone gets carried on the dance floor.

“Home is wherever I’m with you.” Last song of the night.

The Photobooth. A hit as always and the perfect excuse for the groom to have a bunch of people carry him.

For friends and guests in attendance, click on the following links to see all the Dancing and Photobooth photographs with the password provided by the bride and groom.