Always an honor to contribute my images for publication :)

When you look back in life, will you ask yourself, "Why didn't I?" or maybe even "Why did it take me so long?". These are questions faced by everybody on their journey and hopefully the answers do not come too late.

For Rebecca, her life is full of promise and she is leaving no room for missed opportunities. With amazing family support, a collection of trusted peers to run with, and a true internal compass to follow, she is pursuing her dreams with beautiful expectations.

Thank you Rebecca, Laura, and Sheri for a spectacular day of shooting. :)

 

Ceremony and Reception: Ritz Carlton
Coordinator: Heather Lowenthal
Shoes: Angela Nuran
Music: Liquid DJ / Shannon
Makeup Artist: Shirley Torres

The generous round of applause echoing off the walls of the Ritz Carlton courtyard inspired a heartfelt smile in Leo as he approached the outdoor alter. Prepared to see his beaming bride, the glass doors opened and with the sounds of ocean waves breaking in the background everyone stood to their feet. The beautiful Juliette gracefully walked the aisle with mom and dad by her side to join the love of her life entering into a sacred place.

Sacred moments are a gift. They are a time to express meaning, value, and worth for another. For Juliette and Leo, they were able to share this gift with loved ones on a spectacular day of celebration where they would devote themselves to a life of one. One future, one hope, one family, one love. Together they realize they are stronger than apart with all of life to look forward to.

Juliette + Leo: Thank you for your sincere and heartfelt outlook on life that you share with all. Your grounded love will carry you to bright days ahead while contributing to everyone along the way. Once again, Congratulations!

Yes, as with every wedding experience, the details were ever important yet from the moment Tara arrived to the reserved preparation suite in the Biltmore Hotel, there was only one pressing thought in mind… “where is my Ashtan and when can I see him?”

The distinct, unmistakably original connection between Tara and Ashtan is gracefully wrapped in a harmonious unpredictability fused with the savory blend of safety and acceptance.   Branded by understanding, these two love without reserve and without regret.  His patient demeanor - her untamed beauty.   His steady, strong hand - her sense of adventure and expression.   His careful steps – her desire to dive in.

Drawn to the elements of metro nightlife in D.C., Tara and Ashtan’s third social encounter proved itself to be more than a simple coincidence.   Ashtan’s initiative evolved into a deep, passionate relationship that would take no prisoners, leading to this very day where they would pledge their lives to each other with personal vows of commitment and affection.

Ashton summed it best as we prepared for their emotionally charged first look on the outside terrace, “Mike, I love everything about her, I wouldn’t change a single thing.”  As we tapped into each shooting location, the sweet vulnerability Tara and Ashtan share became more and more evident revealing their treasured love for each other... these two have something special.   

Tara + Ashtan: I was honestly fascinated by you two and enjoyed every moment of our time together with your warm + loving family and friends. Your seemingly carefree approach to life and love are ever refreshing and please know that speaks volumes. Congratulations and thank you for bringing me up to speed on my lingo-"emo"  :)  Blessings to you both, Mike

Growing up I can remember running to the neighbors to borrow a cup of sugar or a bowl of eggs when mom was running low on ingredients necessary for our Friday night chocolate cake bake!  She would tell me, “Look out for cars and come straight home Michael so we can finish”, as if I wanted to be anywhere else?  Well Juliette and Leo must have grown up with similar experiences however with maturity, they took it one step further.

Leo, a talented boat craftsman, found himself captivated upon each of his visits by Juliette, the neighbor to one of his clients, or ~ no wait a minute… it was the beautiful Juliette who made the first move expressing her interest with each casual passing as Leo stopped in to work on a clients vessel… hmmm, well to this very day they playfully hold to their own side of the story as to who pursued who but with one common denominator of course – in the end they will always be grateful for good neighbors.

Years later they find themselves in love with life, with family, and with each other.  With Kayla their lovable rescue puppy, and a passion to live a hands on approach, Juliette and Leo are two of the most generous individuals wearing their hearts on the sleeves while soaking up all that life has to offer.  Felicitações once again you guys – I look forward to your wedding day!