Marianna Jimenez & Matt Edwards Wedding – The Botanical Gardens

July 10, 2009

I have grown to love the opportunity to shoot friends weddings over the past few years. The potential for awkward photographic moments with a complete stranger are all but wiped away. There is also an expanded possibility of shooting outside the box that comes in to play. This past weekend I was fortunate enough to work with a guy who took me on to his indoor soccer squad about a year ago. 

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With the smell of fireworks still lingering from the night before, Matt Edwards and Marianna Jimenez tied the knot at the lovely Idaho Botanical Gardens. The ceremony was held in the delightful Meditation Garden where shade trees gave relief from the intense summer sun and the flowing waterfalls soothed the soul. It was a splendid ceremony with words of wisdom from the pastor and touching vows given by both Matt & Marianna. Final words were spoken and before you knew it, Matt and Marianna sealed the deal with a kiss. 

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Following the ceremony was a laid back reception just a mere short stroll down to the main courtyard. Delicious eats were provided by Casa Mexico while contemporary tunes were mixed by one of Matt’s good friends. Amidst the dinner, Matt’s brother and Marianna’s two sisters gave speeches that brought back fond memories of their pasts and welcomed each party into their respective family. 

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The first dance, father-daughter dance and the mother-son dance marked the transition period to the dance floor. Epic dance moves ensued as the guests were now invited to  transition from the dinner tables to the dance floor. A tribute to Michael Jackson’s recent passing brought out the best in all that participated. It was quite a treat to watch the seemingly unsuspecting come alive with enthusiasm and fervor when Billie Jean came over the P.A. Guests feet only stopped moving to take in the cake cutting before getting back to the rhythmic moves. All in all it was truly another great wedding to be a part of. Thanks Matt and Marianna for choosing me to document your special day!

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All images copyright Steve Smith Weddings


Carla Palmer & Mike Gamblin Wedding – St. John’s Cathedral

July 9, 2009

For many, Saturday June 27, 2009 was just another balmy delightful day in the City of Trees. For Carla Palmer and Mike Gamblin the 27th was a day to remember as they solidified their commitment to one another through a beautiful ceremony in St. John’s Cathedral. Large stain-glass windows invite warm sun rays in while glowing stage lights only encourage a welcoming feeling to this holy sanctuary in which Mike and Carla chose for their ceremony. It was a awe-inspiring experience to be a part of. Elegant biblical passages read by family, and inspirational words spoken by their priest left a big smile on my face. When all was said and done, Carla and Mike walked down the front steps to a joyous crowd of their friends and family. 

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With the ceremony concluded it was now time for the party to start. Guests hopped in their cars and caravanned to the Power House event center for some food, drink and plenty of dancing. Amidst the flurry of the activities came the cake cutting in which Mike’s son Burke and his daughter Audrey gave touching speeches welcoming Carla into their home and wishing the both of them success in the future. The evening continued on with the traditional activities of the first dance and bouquet toss only to be finalized with epic dance moves by all. It was an extremely energetic escapade to partake in.

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I want to thank Carla, Mike for bringing into their special day. Best wishes!

All images copyright Steve Smith Weddings


JOHN BERTOLLI’S AND KOREN SHELTON’S WEEKEND WEDDING CELEBRATION IN GUALALA, CALIFORNIA PART I

July 6, 2009

PART I – INTRODUCTION

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Koren Shelton and John Bertolli decided to have a destination wedding in Gualala, California; a place previously unfamiliar to many of us, but unforgettable now that we’ve been.

The little town of Gualala, (pronounced Walala), is on the coast of California about 130 miles north of  San Francisco. The scenic drive along Hwy 1 takes about 3 hours, but most of us need to tack on a little more time to allow for the stops we’re compelled to make along the way. The views are breathtaking.

The area surrounding Gualala boasts some rather dramatic coastline.  The contrast of the dark, craggy cliffs and rocks against the azure sea is spectacular.

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The pace in Gualala seems slower than at home. It is clean, and clear; quiet, and peaceful. For those caught up in a world of concrete and stress, it is truly a breath of fresh air.

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John’s brother, and sister-in-law, Tom and Jane Bertolli, own a magnificent piece of property in the hills above Gualala, and graciously offered to host the wedding festivities.

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Jane & Tom Bertolli

The 40 acre parcel, named Acacia Corner, has been a 20+ year labor of love for them. Pride of ownership showed everywhere you looked.

Much of what was once all dense woods had been painstakingly cleared and currently  boasts a sprawling green yard, referred to as “the meadow” and a beautiful large pond.  The property provided a perfect setting for John and Koren’s weekend celebration.

The "Meadow" at Acacia Corner
The “Meadow” at Acacia Corner

Steve Smith and I (Jeane Gadd-Smith), of Steve Smith Weddings, feel very fortunate to have been chosen to photograph John & Koren’s wedding celebration, and to have had the opportunity to see and experience this little piece of paradise.

To view all the images from this weekend wedding celebration, click on this link:  http://www.pictage.com/641112


JOHN BERTOLLI’S AND KOREN SHELTON’S WEEKEND WEDDING CELEBRATION IN GUALALA, CALIFORNIA PART II

July 6, 2009

CHAPTER ONE:

FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2009

WEDDING REHEARSAL, AN AFTERNOON AT ACACIA CORNER, AND MUSIC UNDER THE STARS

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Friday morning promised a glorious day.  Steve and I, (of Steve Smith Weddings) arrived at Acacia Corner about a half hour before the rehearsal was scheduled (at 11:00 AM).

Attendants (i.e., family and friends assigned to the task) were on hand to direct us where to park our vehicles and to guide us to the walking path that would lead us to the meadow.  We didn’t quite know what to expect, but once we got to the clearing, we were both quite impressed with the view before us.

The pond at Acacia Corner
The pond at Acacia Corner

The rehearsal started right on time.

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Minister, Jimmy Bartz leads the procession.
Minister, Jimmy Bartz leads the procession.

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John tackles Koren after they are pronounced husband and wife at the rehearsal.
John tackles Koren after they are pronounced husband and wife at the rehearsal.

Shortly after the rehearsal was over, John’s family provided a lovely Tuscan-style buffet lunch.

Many of the elements were homemade by the various members of his family.  John’s brother, Paul (Bertolli), a renowned chef, and the  founder/curemaster of Fra’ Mani, provided an assortment of hand crafted organic meats.

Koren's Mom, Carol, surveys the lunch buffet.
Koren’s Mom, Carol, surveys the lunch buffet.

John’s sister brought an ample supply of antipasto she had made using a treasured, old family recipe.

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After lunch some of the guests enjoyed an assortment of games including ping pong, badminton, croquet, horseshoes, and lawn baseball.

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Others migrated to the pond where some just relaxed,

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some took the paddle boat out,

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and some fished.

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Tom (Bertolli) showed the other fisherman how it’s done, and caught one of his prize trout, which he carefully unhooked and released.

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Meanwhile others, including the groom, went to work setting up for the evening’s festivities.

Groomsman, Scott Rosenberg.
Groomsman, Scott Rosenberg.

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“Chef Paul” prepped for and put a monstrous pot of minestrone soup on to simmer.

"Chef Paul Bertolli" making minestrone soup.
“Chef Paul Bertolli” making minestrone soup.

Steve and I had intended (and hoped) to take the wedding party down to Anchor Bay Beach for photographs, but wedding set-up logistics, and guest obligations were more pressing.

The next wave of guests began arriving around 3:00.

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A bit later, the barbeque was fired up, and two varieties of  sausages (provided once again by Fra’ Mani) were grilled for guests to enjoy.

Paul Bertolli grills his handcrafted sausages.
Paul Bertolli grills his handcrafted sausages.

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As the sun went down, the bonfire was lit and everyone was summoned to the pit for “Music under the stars”.

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The warmth of the fire helped take the chill away from the cool, no I think it’s safe to say COLD night air.

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Various friends and family  took turns singing and playing, and many of those in the audience joined in.

Koren's sister, Samantha, sings and plays her ukelele.
Koren’s sister, Samantha, sang and played her ukelele.

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Koren sang with her Dad, Christopher,

Koren sings with her Dad Christopher.
Koren sings with her Dad Christopher.

and her sisters, ErinSamantha and Marley.

Erin, Koren, Samantha & Marley sing together.
Erin, Koren, Samantha & Marley sang together.
Koren sings a special song to John.
Koren sang a special song to John.

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Koren also treated the crowd to conga rythyms.

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Long sticks were passed around for toasting marshmallows, and graham crackers and chocolate bars were on hand for making s’mores.

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It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

To view all the pictures from this weekend wedding celebration, click on this link:  http://www.pictage.com/641112


JOHN BERTOLLI’S AND KOREN SHELTON’S WEEKEND WEDDING CELEBRATION IN GUALALA, CALIFORNIA PART III

July 6, 2009

CHAPTER TWO:

SATURDAY, APRIL 17, 2009

WEDDING DAY

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Saturday was another glorious day; absolutely perfect for a wedding. Steve and I headed to Dew Point around noon. (Dew Point is the name of the residence John & Koren had rented and was where Koren and her bridesmaids were getting ready).

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We found everyone relaxed and happy, enjoying glasses of mimosas and painting one another’s nails.

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Perched atop the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the views from the house were spectacular.

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We took advantage of the scenery and the textures while photographing some of the “details”.

Flowers for the bridal party's hair.
Flowers for the bridal party’s hair.

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John dressed early at the house, then met his groomsmen at Acacia Corner.

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Upon their arrival, make-up Artist, Rela Martine, of Criterion Agency, and Jenny Cho, of The Wall Group set up their stations, and began to work. Both women are highly acclaimed in their respective fields and have accrued impressive resumes of notable clientele and projects over the span of their careers.

Marley, Koren’s sister, and maid of honor, presented Koren with exquisite heirloom diamond jewelry pieces she had borrowed for Koren to wear for the wedding. The collection included chandelier earrings, a bracelet and a pin.

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When it was Koren’s turn to have her hair done, Jenny masterfully created a soft, graceful up-do for her.

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Beautiful!

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Koren moved on to Rela’s chair where Rela expertly applied her make-up.

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As Rela worked, Koren asked her nieces, Farrah and Rosie Volpintesta, to help her hand out the gifts she had brought for her bridesmaids.

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Everyone seemed delighted and touched by their gifts. They were glasses; each set a little different from the others.

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Steven Davis and Beau Flynn brought the ladies tacos for lunch, and presented Koren with a guest book they had handmade themselves.

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Steven Davis and Beau Flynn

The ladies dressed.

Koren’s gown was stunning and fit her like a glove.

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Koren with Flower Girls Farrah & Rosie Volpintesta and Luisa Bertolli.
Koren with Flower Girls Farrah & Rosie Volpintesta and Luisa Bertolli.
Koren and her sister, Marley.
Koren and her sister, Marley.
Koren and her mother, Carol
Koren and her mother, Carol

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The Bridal Party
The Bridal Party

The ladies headed to Acacia Corner about 3:30.

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The bridal party sequestered themselves in the house as guests started to arrive.

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Meanwhile John presented his groomsmen with sunglasses.

John presents Peter Johnston with sunglasses.
John presents Peter Johnston with sunglasses.

Steve took the men out to the meadow for a few pictures prior to the ceremony.

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The “santuary” in the meadow at Acacia Corner.

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The prelude music began.

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Once the guests found their seats, the ceremony began.

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Koren’s Mother, Carol, was escorted to her seat.

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Minister Jimmy Bartz, led the procession of groomsmen to the altar.  (Tom & Paul Bertolli, Peter Johnston, Kevin Lake, Jeff Lancaster, and Scott Rosenberg).

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John, flanked by his sisters Marie Young, Susan and Jeanne Bertolli, and JoAnne Wilson entered next.

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Then each bridesmaid made their way down the aisle;

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followed by the flower girls.

Farrah Volpintesta
Farrah Volpintesta
Luisa Bertolli and Rosie Volpintesta
Luisa Bertolli and Rosie Volpintesta

There was a precious moment, when Luisa got side-tracked and started handing out petals to some of the guests in the back row. With a little prodding, she quickly regained her focus, and headed back down the aisle.

Anthony Bertolli, the ring bearer, brought up the rear.

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Anthony Bertolli

Once at the alter, the wedding party anxiously awaited Koren’s appearance.

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Koren and her father, Christopher emerged and made their way down the aisle to the song,”Isn’t She Lovely”, by Stevie Wonder.

Koren's father, Christopher, escorts her down the aisle.
Koren’s father, Christopher, escorts her down the aisle.

John was duly impressed at the site of his beautiful bride.

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Koren’s sister, Marley, gave a reading.

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Then Erin and Samantha sang….

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….much to the appreciation of the crowd.

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There were poems and readings.

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Then John & Koren recited their wedding vows…..

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…and exchanged rings.

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Reverend Bartz gave the final blessing…..

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….and pronounced the two husband and wife.

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John kissed his bride……

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…to the applause of the crowd.

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Guests blew bubbles and Monarch butterflies were released as the couple walked down the aisle.

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There were celebratory kisses….

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…and high fives!

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Jimmy Bartz with the newlyweds
Jimmy Bartz with the newlyweds

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After the ceremony, Steve and I photographed the wedding party.

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Next, we photographed various family groupings.

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Meanwhile, guests enjoyed beverages and hors d’oeuvres, while being serenaded by Thad Keyes, and various guest artists.

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Koren’s mother took to the stage and performed “In my Life”, by George Harrison, as a tribute to her daughter.

John, Koren, and her Dad listed as Koren's Mom, Carol sings.
John, Koren, and her Dad listed as Koren’s Mom, Carol sings.

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Then Koren sang a special song for John….

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…much to John’s appreciation….

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….as well as many of the guests.

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Steve and I gently prodded the newlyweds away from their adoring guests for a few signature shots.

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Guests were summoned to the beautifully decorated reception tent.

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Various friends and family made endearing toasts to the couple before and after dinner.

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Koren and John thanked their guests for joining in on their celebration.

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Later, Koren’s family performed a song that was a fun spoof on the couple’s courtship.

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Then the dancing began.

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John and Koren took to the floor for their first dance as husband and wife. In our experience, the first dances are usually set to a slow rhythm songs. Not so at this wedding!

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Koren then danced with her father,

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And John danced with his eldest sister,

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Then John stepped out with Carol, and Koren danced with Tom.

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Once the first dances were completed, the guests took to the floor.

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Even the catering staff was dancing!

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The dancing was briefly interrupted by an impassioned, animated rap song specially written for the couple.

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A bit later, the crowd was requested to step outside of the tent. Much to everyone’s surprise, fire dancers appeared to entertain the crowd.

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Very impressive!

A bit later, John and Koren cut one of their many cakes.

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The dancing continued on into the night.

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They even got Pastor Jimmy out there, albeit a bit reluctantly and reserved.

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They danced and they danced ’til they could dance no more.

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The festivities came to a happy ending….

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…and a beautiful beginning to John and Koren’s new life together as husband and wife.

Steve and I feel honored and blessed to have been a part of their incredible celebration.  We wish them all the best for a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life together.

To view all the pictures from this weekend wedding celebration, click on this link: http://www.pictage.com/641112


Ashley Nichols and Benjamin Rosenbaum Engagement Session

June 26, 2009

Boise in the summer rocks with visual opportunity–the River, the foothills, downtown.  On Wednesday evening I was privileged to spend some time with Ashley, Ben, and their 6-month old puppy, Murph,  to shoot their engagement session.

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I love the chance to connect with bridal couples in the low-pressure time before the wedding preparations get too intense to relax.   We spent 2 hours in a range of locations documenting their affection for each other.  Here are a few from the shoot.

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Ash

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Thanks very much for looking!  You can see the entire engagement session here:


Idaho Bride and Groom Session: Julianna Roeloffs and Jordan Jarvis

June 24, 2009

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It doesn’t get much sweeter than  photographing young love in southern Idaho on a clear, temperate day in June.

Julianna Roeloffs and Jordan Jarvis of Wendell, ID were married in Boise on June 20, 2009.   They asked Jeane and me of Steve Smith Weddings to do a bride & groom session for them at Blue Lakes Country Club in Twin Falls before the wedding.

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We choreographed a “Reveal” scenario so Jordan could be presented with his bride in her stunning silk dress for the first time.

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Then our entourage of golf carts wove across the property to assorted scenic locations…

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A view of the iconic Perrine Bridge over the Snake River Canyon is a signature feature at Blue Lakes.

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To Julianna and Jordan, Congratulations!!  Thank you for including us in your celebration.

To see the complete session, please click here.

Thanks for viewing and we welcome your comments!


Sarah Lindblom & Rick Charters Wedding – The Rose Room

April 24, 2009

As the spring flowers slowly begin to grow so too do the number of weddings. With each new tulip blooming comes a new wedding on the date book. April 18th made for one of the first blossoming flowers of our much anticipated season.

Long time partners, Sarah Lindblom and Rick Charters decided that it was time to make things official. They gathered a close group of their family members and best friends to partake in their big day. The Rose Room, located in downtown Boise on Idaho St. hosted the evenings festivities. Elegant floral arrangements accented the table settings, ice sculptures provided unique decorations and a beautiful cake set the scene for this charming location.

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Guests filtered in throughout the better part of a half an hour before the ceremony was scheduled to get under way. When everyone had been seated the procession began. A delightful ceremony was given with readings presented by Rick’s mother, Barbara Jo. Not long after and the couple was exchanging vows and first kisses before heading back down the aisle this time united as one.

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Beverages and a delicious dinner consisting of a nice mixed greens salad, prime rib, baked chicken and halibut florentine were enough to satisfy any guests’ pallet. Not long after the main course was sifted through a beautiful cake had to be cut. A heartfelt toast was given by the maid of honor Betsy Davies followed by a witty one by best man Josh Hoffman.

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As bellies were filled and thirsts were quenched, dinner began to transition into dancing. An eclectic selection of great tunes was mixed by the groom’s brother, Tom Charters. Fitting songs echoed as the traditional first dance, father daughter and mother son dance went on. Once finished, the beat picked up and the so too did the moves. Rugs or rather wood floors were being cut up and stories were told as the night continued on. It was truly a great sight.

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I want to thank Rick and Sarah for choosing me as their wedding photographer! I hope that you two had a great honeymoon with your close friends down south!

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All images copyright Steve Smith Weddings

More photographs will be available for viewing by clicking here.


DANIELLE FLAHERTY AND JACOB KING WEDDING

April 8, 2009

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The second day of spring had a little bit of everything going on as far as the weather was concerned. Overcast skies in the morning broke up a bit mid-afternoon, allowing rays of sunshine to filter through for a time. But that was short-lived. Within a few hours, the skies turned dark again as a thunderstorm made it’s way across the Treasure Valley. Whatever the weather, it just really didn’t matter. Saturday, March 21, 2009 was Jacob King’s and Danielle Flaherty’s wedding day and they were not about to let anything ruin their special day.

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Danielle and her bridesmaids, and Jacob and his groomsmen got ready at the Modern Hotel, located in downtown Boise, on Grove Street, directly across the street from the Linen Building (which is where the wedding and reception were going to be held). Steve Smith and I (Jeane Gadd), of Steve Smith Weddings arrived at about 4:00 to photograph the event, each of us making our way to our respective genders’ rooms.

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I found a gaggle of women in various stages of readiness, lounging comfortably, awaiting their turn at the hair and make-up stations, mimosas in hand.  

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The room was large and comfortable for the 10 or so ladies there.

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I started out photographing Danielle’s dress which was positively gorgeous; a strapless gown with a flowing train and a lace-up back.

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The bathroom had been transformed into a beauty salon where up-dos were artistically created by Christine Johnson of Maci Salon, located in Eagle, Idaho. I’ve never seen anyone so adept and quick at creating such beautiful hair-dos. Very Impressive!

The kitchen counter became a cosmetic station where Hillary Bonine of Renu Medispa in Eagle, did a beautiful job applying make-up to the ladies. Her color selections and expert application enhanced the faces of each and every person who allowed her to work her magic.

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As Danielle had her make-up applied, her bridesmaids,  Briana Flaherty, Anna Lione, Janile King, Whitney Adams, McKenna Kline put on their dresses.

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Each dress was a different style, but each incorporated the same fabric. All the dresses were sewn by Danielle’s mother, Janet. Needless to say, that woman’s got talent!

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Dani emerged from the make-up chair looking positively stunning. Her bridesmaids helped her into her gown and laced her up.

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Meanwhile, Steve was in Jake’s and his groomsmen’s room taking photos of their process of getting ready.

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Jake presented his attendants, Cruz Becanegra, Matt Lockey, Kellan Smith, Brett Cunningham, and Nathan Hubbard, with beautiful pocket watches, each inscribed with the recipient’s name.

Dani gave all of her bridesmaids small clutches from the local Juju accessory store.  Her grandmother gave all the ladies compacts engraved with Bride (for Danielle) and Bridesmaid (for the others). 

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Once dressed, Steve took the guys outside for a series of fun shots, and then over to the Linen building where he took some photos of Jake with some members of his family.

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Jake with his Mom, Sister & Dad (Kim, Janile & Jesse)

Jake and Dani did not want to see one another prior to the ceremony, so we took great care in making sure that while one was being photographed, the other was safely sequestered away.

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Once all the ladies were ready, and Jake and his groomsmen were in their room, we made our way over to the Linen Building where various preliminary pictures of Dani, her bridesmaids, and some members of  Dani’s family were taken.  

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Dani with her Step- Mom, Gwen, Dad, Dan & Mom, Janet. 

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One particularly special moment was when Dani’s father, Dan put an historic lucky penny in Dani’s shoe.

The bride and her attendants retreated to the waiting room at the Linen Building, safely hidden away as guests began to arrive.

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Larry Conklin played guitar  as guests were escorted down the aisle by Danielle’s handsome cousins, Eric, Sean & Brett Gallinger, and her brother, Garth Flaherty, (the designated ushers).  

Once all the guests were in place, the ceremony began.  Best man, Cruz Bocenegra and Maid of Honor, Briana Flaherty led the procession of attendants.

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Dani’s cousins, Davina Flaherty and Liam  Hancock (flowergirl & ring bearer) accompanied by Grace Hancock, (junior bridesmaid),brought up the rear.

Dani’s father, Dan, escorted his daughter down the aisle.

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At the altar, he shook Jake’s hand, gave his daughter one last hug, then presented Dani to her groom.

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Jake’s longtime friend, Dennis Williams, officiated the ceremony.

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Dani’s Grandfather, Duane Gallinger offered a prayer for the couple.

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The congregation was all smiles as the couple was pronounced “husband & wife”, kissed, and made their way back down the aisle.  

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The wedding party congregated in the waiting room, where a special boxed bottle of tequila was presented to the couple, signed by all the attendants.

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In place of traditional shot glasses, Briana Flaherty, provided small beakers (in homage to her degree in biochemistry) for consumption purposes.

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As guests made their way to the reception hall, Steve and I photographed various combinations of family members.

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The inclement weather thwarted our plans to photograph the bride and groom and their wedding party outdoors, so we went to “Plan B” and photographed them in various areas of the Linen Building.

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Jake’s basketball-themed ring was custom made by Mike Rogers of Precious Metal Arts in downtown Boise.

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Guests applauded as the newlyweds made their grand entrance into the beautifully decorated reception hall.

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John Carpenter of John Carpenter’s Flowers provided the floral arrangements (as well as the attendants bouquets, corsages & boutonnieres).

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Angell’s Bar & Grill provided a lovely buffet including skewered chicken, bacon wrapped scallops, stuffed pastries, fruit kebabs, smoked salmon, pasta salad, and vegetable crudite.

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Originally not everyone intended to deliver toasts to Dani & Jake, but as it turned out, each and every one of the adult attendants, as well as the officiant, paid a tribute to and/or related a story about their relationship with the couple.

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Dani’s father also made a special toast welcoming Jake to the family.

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The cake cutting came next.  Dani & Jake had a 4-tiered wedding cake, provided by Pamela’s Bakery in Eagle. Each tier was made of a different flavor: the bottom was vanilla chiffon cake with huckleberry filling, next was a red velvet cake with cream cheese filling, the third tier was dark chocolate cake with huckleberry filling, and the top tier was dark chocolate cake with peanut filling.

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The “feeding” between husband and wife was one of the most respectful I’d ever witnessed. Both emerged completely clean faced.

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Dani surprised Jake with a personalized Groom’s cake . The design, derived from a tattoo that Jake would like to get at some point in time, depicted a bale of hay, a stump of wood with an ax in it and a backwards “K bar S” brand.  Jake grew up on a farm baling hay and chopping wood.  The “K bar S” brand, stands for King and Sons, which was the brand used by Jake’s grandfather’s on his ranch in Montana. 

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Jake’s dear cousin, Emma King, sang Allison Krauss’s “When You Say Nothing At All”  as Jake and Dani took to the floor for their first dance together as husband and wife.  

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Then Dani danced with her Dad,

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And Jacob danced with his Mom.

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And then the guests took over the floor, and the party really got going.

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D.J., Amber Maas, a family friend, and a newlywed herself (having just been married the weekend before) provided a wide range of fun and danceable music.

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Dennis Williams, surprised us with a major character transformation from mild mannered “Officiant” to “Gangsta”.

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I think it goes without saying that a good time was had by all.

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At the end of the evening, Mr. and Mrs. King left the festivities to start their new life together.

It was a wonderful celebration from start to finish.  Steve and I were so grateful to have been a part of it all.  We extend Dani & Jake our very best wishes for a rich  and happy life together.

To view all the pictures of this wedding, click here.


Christine Eakin & Hector Felix Wedding – Malibu, CA

April 1, 2009

Often times people tend to throw caution to the wind when hiring friends to participate in their wedding matters. I can understand the concern for impending lack of professionalism and potential for unpleasant butting of heads. However, from my personal experience I have found the opportunity to work with friends to be incredibly rewarding. Typically, a wedding photographer is going to be going to be involved with some intimate moments with your family and friends. Knowing my clients and having my clients know who I am ahead of time makes everyone more comfortable when the big day comes. 

I have know Christine Eakin for close to three years now. We met through her son Alex who happens to be one of my closest friends. Back in December of 2008 Christine inquired about the possibility of me shooting her wedding. She mentioned a potential destination wedding someplace warm. My eyes lit up like a kid entering Toys ‘R’ Us for the first time. No matter where the final destination was to be I eagerly cleared my calendar to accommodate her March 21st date. As the big day approached so too did a decision on a wedding location. Talks of a rented house in the hills of Malibu, California was what reverberated my way. Visions of mansions sporadically erupting along the hillsides over looking Highway 1 quickly came to mind. There was no hiding my excitement for this new adventure. 

March 19th finally came and we were bound for sunny California. A quick flawless flight had us taxiing on the LAX runway in under two hours. Before we knew it, we were headed down Lincoln Blvd. aiming for Highway 1. A short while later and we pulled through the private entrance on up to the house that we were staying for the weekend. Not wanting to Now I have seen lifestyles of the rich and famous and seen millionaire mansions on TV but have never experienced one first hand. My jaw dropped straight to the ground. This house was a sprawling 12,000 sq. ft. overlooking Zuma Beach… Did I mention that I really enjoy shooting events for friends? 

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My long weekend started off on the right foot. I spent the better part of Friday relaxing and familiarizing myself with the location. I was fortunate enough to meet Hector and Christine’s families, catch some waves at Zuma Beach and wind it all down with a nice soak in the hot tub. 

Saturday came with open arms. To a certain degree I really enjoy the hustle and bustle of wedding day happenings. Guests and families arriving, last minute ceremony/catering/djing details to go over and the random hiccups provide enough nervous anticipation to force bursting cardiac rates. It’s enough to drive anyone insane but when the music starts to play and the wedding party starts to walk down the aisle everything is put on hold for life to be lived in the moment. 

I’ll admit that most brides and grooms tend to wear their stress on their sleeve but I must say that Christine and Hector were probably one of the calmest wedding day couples I’ve come across. They handled any issues with ease and transitioned from the pre wedding madness to the ceremony without skipping a step. Yet even with their ability to handle all the madness you could still see them block everything else out as soon as their first steps down the aisle began. 

The ceremony brought Christine and Hector’s closest family members out on the grounds of the massive Malibu residence. Christine and Hector stood elegantly at the edge of the expansive vista over looking Zuma Beach. A traditional ceremony flowed effortlessly and before you knew it, Christine and Hector were officially wed. 

Greetings and blessings were exchanged before the guests were invited to partake in a delicious feast of simplistic yet classy meal capable of satisfying just about any appetite. Stories of the couple’s past were told, toast were given and congratulations were passed as everyone enjoyed their meals. It was a real opportunity for everyone to get to know the positive values as well as a few embarrassing moments that Christine and Hector have embraced. I’m pretty sure that just about everyone had a little chuckle and smile somewhere during the events. I know I sure did.

Cake cutting and dancing carried the latter part of this beautiful wedding on to the wee hours of the evening. I truly had a great time meeting everyone and having the opportunity to capture all the special moments. I hope you enjoy going through the pictures as much as I have. More images can be found by clicking here.

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All images copyright Ray Gadd and Steve Smith Weddings