On a gorgeous weekend in June Chase + Julie said I do on Chase’s family ranch. When I arrived I stepped out of my car and heard the steady hum of many generators – it sounded like a cattle show – because the power was out for the whole area. Thank goodness they are a resourceful bunch, and hair + makeup was going on as planned.

We started with details, including this buckle. I love when clients include things that are meaningful to them. Nothing is out of the question to include in details shots. Seriously. And Julie’s flowers by Celestial Dreams.

Then Julie stepped into her dress, with help from her mom and sister, the last step before going to see Chase for the first time that day.

Their first look was under some big trees that gave the perfect amount of shady light for a midday photo.

Chase + Julie opted to do private vows right after their first look, it was so special and intimate.

Followed by bridal party photos and then time to tuck away before the ceremony.

The Mercier’s ceremony had Mt. Shasta as a backdrop and it was magic. A family friend was their officiant, the perfect fit for these two.

Officially Husband + Wife!

Family photos can be chaotic, but they don’t have to be. We tackled their carefully planned out list and got some of my favorite family shots of the summer. This soft lighting was to die for.

Off to the reception, time to eat + have a great time.

Dinner by No Salad Catering Co. was delicious. 

And right after we snuck away for some golden hour photos (and film with Quinn – Queued Memories). This area is known for it’s wind, but we lucked out with a gentle breeze that gave us movement, and cooled the day off. We moved to a couple of different spots and it was worth it.

Back to the reception for toasts – Best Man, Maid of Honor, Brother of the Bride and Bride’s Sister-In-Law, and both Sisters of the Groom, rounding out with both dad’s. So many good sentiments and some great advice, plenty of laughs.

Julie + Chase told me at their engagement session they weren’t big dancers, but you couldn’t tell that during their first dance.

Julie danced with her dad. These have always gotten to me, but even more so now that I have a daughter and imagine Jake + her having a father-daughter dance some day. Immediate tears.

And Chase dance with his mom. So sweet.

Let’s cut the cake! Julie kept it interesting and Chase was a gentlemen.

We snuck in some photos at their arch with some of their favorite people, this sunset lighting was unreal.

One of my favorite details from Chase + Julie’s wedding was this bar. They had their guests bring their cattle brands, and each one was added to it. Such a cool keepsake.

Back to the dance floor for the bouquet and garter tosses!

And right before I left we did a paparazzi time. Once of my newest and favorite things to add to a wedding. Quick photos with whoever wants them. Some of my couples even print them and send them in their thank you notes to each person! Love the sentiment.

Chase and Julie’s day was gorgeous, meaningful and full of their friends + family. What every wedding should be. Can’t wait to see these two take on their next chapter, and so honored they trusted me to capture their day.

-Della