You know, as photographers we get to witness a lot of weddings. The white dress, vow exchange, cake in the face… the whole shebang. We’ve got quite a few under our belt now but even so, every wedding has its own story and is completely and uniquely different from the last. I still get goosebumps every time the Bride puts on her dress and catches a look at herself in the mirror, and choke back tears when the groom experiences the first moment he sees his Bride. It’s an emotional experience for everyone, even someone like your photographer who might only just have a glimpse at your true story. We’re blessed to witness the most special moment in their lives.

That being said, this Bacara Resort wedding in Santa Barbara, California was not an exception to the above statement. It was a truly amazing, emotional day that we got to capture for some very close friends of ours. So close in fact, that Doug took on the role of Groomsmen AND Photographer that day (talk about dedication!). So here’s a bit about the happy couple…

Once upon a time, Matt & Jaclyn met in college at Northern Arizona University (Enter Doug who became the welcomed third wheel to their relationship ;). They were together for six years, traveling state to state in pursuit of their dream jobs, before Matt got down on one knee at the Rose Garden in front of Cinderella’s Castle at Disney World. They spent the next two years planning their dream wedding. With Matt being an incredible Chef, and Jaclyn being a wedding planner (for none other than Disney World itself), this wedding had the makings for an epic event.

March 20th, 2015 has become a day that marks an incredible milestone for Matt & Jaclyn. The day marked exactly eight years from when they started dating, exactly two years from when he proposed, and began a new legacy for the day they promised forever to each other. *Cue the tears*

The ceremony was romantically intimate on the bluffs overlooking the Pacific, dining was delectably divine with an elaborate 5 course meal, and the party was epic involving a choreographed mother-son dance. It had the perfect balance of personal touches that screamed ‘Matt & Jaclyn’, and the elegance of a wedding planner’s gift of design. What an amazing day for an incredible pair. We feel so blessed to have captured these memories for Matt & Jaclyn. Doug especially, for being able to stand at his friends side as Matt did on our wedding day.

Okay, enough mushy talk. Get scrolling! I may have overloaded your pupils with gorgeousness, but I think you can deal with it. ;)

B

DRESS: Nicole Miller

MAKEUP & HAIR: Fairytale Hair & Makeup

VENUE: Bacara Resort & Spa (Santa Barbara)

CAKE & SWEETS: Sweet & Saucy

FLORAL: Bella Vita Florals

LINENS: La Tavola

DJ: Epic Entertainment

FURNITURE RENTAL: Town & Country Event Rentals