Emma and Makade

On September 26, 2020, Emma and Makade said their vows in her dad’s backayard. As they waited to enter the temple to be sealed, they decided to move forward with their wedding, despite the setbacks of COVID-19. And I couldn’t be happier!! I’m ALWAYS so thrilled when couples decide to get married despite everything going on. I just feel like they can get through anything now that they are married. Being married is THE BEST thing. So don’t wait. Haha 

Although their wedding was smaller than anticipated, they still were able to have close friends and family join them to witness their special day! Emmas girlfriends and mom, mother-in-law and step mom all gathered around the beautiful bride as she was getting her hair did, and all beautied up. Tears came down the sweet cheeks of momma as she buttoned each satin button trailing up the back of Emma’s dress. Then oh how the girls smiles reached their eyes as they saw her twirling in “THE perfect dress”  that was “just so Emma”

“THE perfect dress”  that was “just so Emma”

As the boys arrived Emma dove down to peek out the window to see her hubby to be Makade! “He’s so cute!!”  We all laughed, because she was definitely the cute one hiding behind the window.

The moment finally arrived and Emma’s dad drove her up the hill in the backyard where everything was placed just right. The arch overlooking the rolling hills was so breathtaking we almost (almost) forgot how hot it was!! Haa!! The ceremony was simple and so sweet. Their vows shared their love and support. He promised to “always be your emotional support human” and she thanked him for “always being my emotional support human”  

 He promised to “always be your emotional support human” 

They both mentioned how excited they were to be sealed in the temple of the Lord together, and how that was the most important part of the gospel to them. You could tell they loved each other a lot. After a big kiss, a big cheer and lots of photos and some big hugs, you could also tell how HOT everyone was in that bright sun! Emma hid under a tree while all her girls fanned her down!

We had planned on going to Joshua Tree for Bridal pictures, but it was going to be over a hundred degrees there, and Emma did not want to take all eight layers of her dress into the middle of the Sun! LOL!!! So we hopped in the car and drove down to Carlsbad. This is something I feel is so important as a photographer! Knowing how to Pivot! Even though the location had to change and we didn't know exactly where to go, I was able to help everybody feel at ease. I think a large part of that was because I was at ease. I knew that I could capture beautiful photos of their love no matter where we were. 

I knew that I could capture beautiful photos of their love no matter where we were. 

After a quick stop at my parents house (LOL) where I was able to help Emma get back into her dress,  we were at the beach. it was so beautiful among the cliffs  and the salty air. but again we had to pivot. There were so many people on the beach, which made sense because we were there in the middle of the afternoon! So it was not an ideal location or ideal lighting or ideal temperature. Again here comes the theme of overcoming challenges! Despite the obstacles, we made it work! We captured Emma and Makade  running and dancing  in the sand.  all the laughing, giggling, and kissing made for the most romantic moments  to celebrate their love.  Their love was WAS ideal! 

Their love was WAS ideal! 

After a quick nap in the car, Emma and Makade were ready to celebrate up in Menifee at Emma’s mom’s house! Pulling up, you could smell the TACOS. When I asked Emma before the wedding what she was most looking forward to, she said quote “The tacos!” And boy was Emma right to be excited for the tacos. THEY WERE SO GOOD. haha.  it wasn't just the tacos, but everything about the reception was so perfect for THEM. I love how everyone’s wedding identifies with them as a couple. I loved being able to see all of  Emma and Makade’s friends and family gather around to share their love and support of their new union. They danced, talked and gave hugs to those who weren’t social distancing. Then they put rain ponchos on. We knew what was coming, and they did not disappoint. Cake EVERYWHERE. A quick shoe game, and a fake exit made the wrap to the perfect day. 

Love you forever Emma and Makade! I’m so happy for you and all of the love you have to come in your lives together! CONGRATULATIONS!