BellaLu Photography

Charles & Melissa's San Francisco Presidio Wedding - Jazz by the Golden Gate

2012-01-25T19:12:00.000-08:00

This passed October we shot the COOLEST wedding at the San Francisco Presidio Golden Gate Club. It's kind of bizarre how much we have in common with this fantastic couple. From our mutual love of New Orleans jazz and San Francisco to history & cooking-we hit it off completely. Naturally when their wedding rolled around we were SO stinkin excited!

Charles has two daughters Clementine and Adalaide (hello awesome names) and they were never far from Melissa's side while she prepared at the San Francisco Marriott hotel. The two girls also were Charles' "Best Girls" during the ceremony. Love.

Nathan spent time goofing off with Charles before the reveal at the chapel-I'm sorry but I just love bow ties like the one Charles rocked.

Charles and Melissa got married at the Interfaith Center at the Presidio which is SO neat. We did their reveal just steps away from the front door. Then we took them up into the trees for a beautiful bridal shoot.

Charles and Melissa's ceremony was a perfect reflection of their very unique love. And there were SO many stinkin adorable kids.

Um....do you see the girls during Charles & Melissa's first kiss? Yeah. Pretty much awesome.

In keeping with the theme the Brass Monkey Brass Band arrived right after the first kiss & led the guests down the road to the Presidio Golden Gate Club where the reception took place. To say these guys were out of control amazing is the biggest understatement in the world. FUN FUN FUN!!!

Charles and Melissa used Jane Hammond Events to help create their completely amazing reception! Dancing, laughter....and a gumbo bar!!

We had the great pleasure of working with Burkart Studios who did the videography for Charles and Melissa-check it out!!

Charles + Melissa | Wedding Highlight Film from James Burkart on Vimeo.

p.s. if you missed their ADORABLE at home cooking engagement session check it out here:

http://weddings.bellaluphotography.com/#/charles-and-melissa/

and to see their wedding slideshow set to music check it out here!

http://weddings.bellaluphotography.com/#/charles-and-melissa-wedding/

Disneyland Family Vacation - our official endorsement

2012-01-03T13:22:00.000-08:00

When we were investigating Disneyland and all of the Disneyland Hotels naturally we were searching youtube and vimeo videos and google images etc-we never found exactly what we were looking for in regard to where exactly we should go and what exactly we should do.

This trip was a big deal to us because our children have been raised in a disney fantasy land since birth-they wear their princess dresses out and about to the grocery store regularly and sometimes I walk around my house and can hardly function between my clumsy little spinning princesses and blaring Disney soundtracks constantly streaming through our pandora-oh and let's not even talk about all of the bruises on my feet from stepping on and over the endless princess figurines, mini carriages, pixar dolls and castle displays throughout our hallways.

The bottom line is-Disney is massive part of Bella and Lulu's childhood-just as it was mine. We only get to make magic for our children for a few years (if we're lucky) until they grow out of it and into pop stars and ipods. Nathan and I try to indulge these first few priceless years of pure imagination whenever possible. It's pretty much the highlight of our lives.

We did not tell them we were going to Disneyland. We just told them we were going on a (very long) drive. We got in late at the Disneyland Hotel and hid them from the characters in the lobby and any mention of where we were-they just thought we found this uber cool hotel themed like disney somewhere between San Jose and Sacramento. (oh to be young and oblivious)

You'll see in the video how long it took them to figure it all out :)

Lesson: Disneyland is intense. Exhausting. Expensive. And TOTALLY WORTH EVERY CENT AND MORE.

I wanted to grab these princesses and hug them when they danced with my girls so intently and joyfully-I wanted to scream "YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW MUCH YOU ARE MAKING THEIR LIVES RIGHT NOW! I LOVE YOU!!!" Magic magic everywhere....

go. NOW!!! before they grow up...

Put It In Your Que-go ahead! like NOW {Random Monday Post by Lindsey}

2011-11-21T10:03:00.000-08:00

As wedding and lifestyle photographers we spend a decent amount of time glued to our computers processing images, creating slideshows, uploading photos, etc etc etc.....

There are 3 very important things that make this all possible:

1. Pandora (and most recently Spotify)

2. Netflix

3. Coffee

If you know me well you know that I’m only a fan of fiction movies when I’m in a movie theater with popcorn and a coke. If I’m in my own home I’m 100% a non-fiction documentary junkie. It truly is an addiction. When I’m in a hard core processing mode I’ll eat through 3 full length documentaries a day. I’m definitely at the point now where Netflix Instant might be startin’ to sweat me.

I figured rather than constantly pester my sister via text with what she needs to put in her cue I’d just post my recent 10 favs......SO in no particular order....

1. Horse Boy

1 Tissue Box Needed-AMAZING movie

2. Ken Burns: Jazz

No tissue box required-potential to go out and buy copious amounts of jazz records

3. Praying with Lior

2 Tissue Boxes Needed

4. Babies

No Tissue Box Needed but you might have the urge to go out and temporarily steal a baby to snuggle with (DON'T DO THAT)

fascinating movie.

5. Dear Zachary

5 Tissue Boxes Needed and Possibly a Punching Bag-no joke

6. Little Man
1 Tissue Box Should Do It

7. Born into Brothels

No Tissue Boxes Needed but you may have an irrational urge to quit your life and move to India to try everything you can to help these children

8. Food Inc

Final Step that turned me from a meat and potatoes girl to a full vegetarian

9. American Meth
Just plain interesting and sad

10. A Family Undertaking

3 Tissue Boxes and might just totally and completely change the way you look at dying and your own funeral-no JOKE

Unconventional Love {Our First Kiss}

2011-11-11T09:07:00.000-08:00

Mine & Nathan's first date ended in a handshake. No seriously.

He admitted recently that he asked me out because he was curious (as opposed to secretly in love)

I said yes because although I thought he was kind of a punk, I was open to being proven wrong.

So there we were in downtown Nashville after having a quick lunch and walk through Bicentennial Mall.

Had we hit if off? Totally. Were we smitten? Of course. When he offered me a handshake and not even an awkward half sided hug was I turned off? Absolutely.

I told my roomie: Wow. THAT was weird.

A few days later he asked me out for a second date by the soda station at the bar we both worked at-you know the Wildhorse Saloon? (insert chuckle)

He asked me to sushi. (score!!) He asked me to go the following Friday (Valentine's Day??)

My internal predicament: Does he know it's Valentine's Day?

Second predicament: Should I tell him or did I just accidentally score the ultimate second date?

Third predicament: When he inevitably realizes we're surrounded by couples making out under mylar heart balloons during dinner should I act equally surprised?

"Oh my gosh!! I'm the only woman on the face of the planet who didn't realize February 14th 2005 beginning at 12am is Valentine's Day in Nashville, Tennessee!!!! SO weird!!!"

I let it roll and invested my energy into finding the most rockin shirt.

So there we were after dinner sitting in front of the Parthanon in Centennial Park which just so happened to be totally lite up red and pink and looked a little something like this

I mean seriously-could nathan have had a better set up to have me totally hooked?

It took a good 45 minutes of small talk and simple chatter before he finally leaned in-I don't think I could have waited much longer because I had been chewing on the same piece of gum all night which had almost disappeared completely.

I don't think either of us felt the first kiss was terribly good-and it wasn't.

I've heard of fireworks and glitter hearts popping out of folks' heads after their first kiss. That's not so much our style. We've had to work for everything in our life and a good solid kiss is no different.

After 5 years of marriage and 2 kids though-I think we've found a little groove :)

A Sad Day....

2011-10-06T09:39:00.000-07:00

When I was a very little girl my daddy brought home a big massive box with a tiny rainbow apple picture. "This is going to change the world" he said. I was fluent on it within days.

My dad was always a"Mac-Guy". Always subscribed to Mac World. Always was building macs, buying macs, fixing macs, figuring out what was next. Being a true daddy's girl I was always on his same wave length.

The first thing I did when I moved back to California was take the 10 minute drive to 1 Infinite Loop. I couldn't believe that I lived right next to the buildings where things were being created daily that changed and formed my life and future as a business owner, world citizen, wife, mother and woman. I would liken it to strolling past Thomas Edison's house and peeking in the window as he fearlessly obsessed over perfecting the light bulb.

Steve Jobs has made this world that I live and raise my children in immeasurably better. He has challenged me as an artist-why not aspire for perfection? He gave me the tools that I use every single day to create magic for other people. And he did this with a sense of understated humility and grace.

I hope with all of my heart and soul that he left enough magic here in Northern California for others to carry out all the things that had yet to come...

Myself, my husband, my children......and my daddy......PROUDLY mourn today.

screen shot-taken by my mac desktop, sitting next to my ipad, iphone, 2 ipods, idock, 2 macbook pros and shuffle.

Fall Mini Shoot Schedule is UP!

2011-08-04T09:59:00.000-07:00

Random Thursday Post: Staying Connected to your Children {The Silliest Father in the World who could use a voice lesson or two}

2011-07-21T10:45:00.000-07:00

I know I've shared this before but I randomly found it looking for something else completely and his pure dorkiality (made that one up) never ceases to crack me up.

In all honesty, I'm lucky to have married a man who loves his kiddos so much he'll get up at the crack of dawn before work to make them videos to stay connected since he's gone before they wake in the morning. Have a good laugh on this beautiful Thursday....

Los Altos Wedding Photography | Peter + Marissa | Featured on A Paper Proposal

2011-07-14T13:26:00.000-07:00

We're excited to share that Marissa and Peter's beautiful engagement session shot at the Los Altos History Museum and downtown San Jose, California was featured today on A Paper Proposal! Thank you Monina Wright with Moderne Beauty for doing such fabulous work with our couple!

We love this blog-absolutely fabulous!! Check it out!

Seth + Gitanjali | San Francisco Engagement Session | Bellalu Photography with Luke Goodman Cinema

2011-07-12T15:32:00.000-07:00

Today is a special day-not only because it's mine and Nathan's anniversary but also because we get to share the uber adorable Seth and Giti's out of control awesome engagement session!

(yep, I said out of control awesome)

I think me and Nathan realized that we had "arrived" in regard to professional wedding photography when the clients who started to inquire for photography for their own weddings consistently were couples we INSTANTLY clicked with and felt like we could really see ourselves in. And I've realized there is a basic reason for this:

Me and Nathan fully believe the energy and vibe you give out into the world and offer other people is the same energy and vibe you will receive in return.

And this is the precise reason we clicked from the very first meeting with this adorable couple. Seth and Giti are hilarious. They love life and they're totally smitten with each other. They're not afraid to be totally goofy but also appreciate a more romantic vibe. And myself and Giti BOTH have crescent moon tattoos on our shoulder blade-HELLO FATE! ;-)

What's SO HARD in this business of professional photography is there are photographers EVERYWHERE-and with the introduction of the consumer DSLR camera they're popping up more and more day by day. Me and Nathan really had to search our souls to figure out-where do we fit in with all of this?

The bottom line is for me and Nathan it has always been and will always be about the EXPERIENCE.

It's about Lindsey and Nathan being Lindsey and Nathan. We're high energy, we're goofy, we're hopeless romantics, we're touchy feely but also belly laugher's-and we're not looking to be hired as just another vendor on our bride and groom's list.

Oh heck no.

We pour our hearts and souls into everything we do. We realized last year that we needed to make it crystal clear that this is our style and this is what makes our hearts beat. Is the way we go about our photography perfect for everyone? Of course not! Otherwise the term "BellaLu Couple " would mean nothing. :-) But if we can offer brides and grooms a clear vision of what we do before they ever even hit the Contact Us button on our website then we are making both theirs and our lives easier.

And when Seth and Giti hit that Contact Us button I truly believe they knew they were our couple. They were totally right. We are totally blessed.

So we're pleased post this fabulous session shot off the 101 in San Francisco, California. Half of our session was shot on Seth's old race car "Jackie" and the other half was in front of this awesome old shack I drove by once when I was totally lost and thought-I will shoot at this place one day when the time is right :) Special thanks to Monina Wright -my go-to girl with Moderne Beauty for the makeup and hair styling!

Over the next few weeks we'll be rolling out some new fun stuff that we feel will offer the world a better picture of BellaLu Photography-starting with this very session. We've hired Luke Goodman from Luke Goodman Cinematography to follow us around for a few weeks documenting us in our day to day lives and at work. He's done an INCREDIBLE job of truly capturing the REAL US-the good the bad and the ugly :)

We've been beyond blessed to be working with him and his fiance Pamela-two of the most talented videographers in the industry. We're excited for things to come and hope you follow along with us on our journey!

And with that, in case you haven't seen this floating around the BellaLu Universe....here's the sneak peek behind the scenes look at Seth & Giti's session!

Seth and Giti Engagement Film from Luke Goodman on Vimeo.

Our Wedding Story {5 years ago today}

2011-07-12T10:33:00.000-07:00

{Originally posted July 25, 2010}

I meant to do this weeks ago-life got in the way (i hate it when that happens). Then we got back from our "honeymoon" and walked into "crazy sick children hell". (i hate it when that happens even MORE)

I've had so many people ask for the details of why we did what we did this past week. What our "story" was and all that. Well I knew it'd be a short novel but finally here it is... :)

YES! Me and nathan renewed our vows last weekend! (crazy it's already been a week!) so many didn't even know we were doing it. Actually we weren't even sure we were doing it until pretty much the last second lol. But with a little push and some prayers to God we knew it was the right time.

Why now? What was wrong with your first wedding?

Well...we didn't have a first wedding. :)

I love watching people do the math after 1st asking how long we have been married followed by...."but wait....how old is bella??"

Nathan and I had been dating about 9 months when we got our big fat positive. We were both in college getting awesome grades and really active in all kinds of fun things. Nathan had a rather promising future as a drummer touring the country and I had just put a $370 down payment on a travel abroad summer trip through Europe.

whoops.

We *thought* we were being smart about our "relations" but how smart can you really be when you're relating a little too close when you've got no solid marital foundation (or...uh...marriage?)

So we took a deep breath-dropped all of the "fun stuff" and decided rather than shot gunning a wedding we would invest financially in a pretty in depth program investigating a future as man and wife and preparing ourselves emotional, physically, psychologically and spiritually for our future together raising an unexpected little one. Would that mean marriage? Maybe. We weren't sure. But we WERE sure that our baby was going to have the same healthy start & well rounded nurturing childhood as any other child born into any other by the book household in America. We were two kids who loved each other endlessly & made a "mistake". We just had to do some hard work to swap that word out for "miracle" and we were set on doing it right.

We "graduated" from our pre-marital counseling a few weeks before Bella's due date. We were solid. We were ready. Nathan dropped drumming completely and put 500% into finishing his business degree so he could support his new family to be. I worked my butt off waitressing tables and finishing my semester and saving every penny up so I could stay home with our baby until she was 1 year (that was our goal-4 years later we're still going strong-a blessing indeed). Nathan & I spent forever on her nursery in our first "home" together painting it the perfect shade of light pink. It was around that time that Nathan proposed to me at the foot of the golden gate bridge on an ice cold night in san francisco. I was wrapped in a blanket and annoyed that he was making a ginormous preggo stand out in the cold so he could set up the stupid timer on the camera. I felt a little sheepish when I looked down and realized he was proposing to me with my beautiful, sweet & simple little diamond band (all we could possibly afford)

We knew what wedding we wanted-we would invite our large families and all of our friends! There would be flowers everywhere, perfect lighting, an amazing cake and band and LOTS of dancing! It was going to be awesome. Given that we had spent all of our money on getting the actual marriage set and grounded and into savings so I could stay home (although of course those were the best decisions we ever made) left us no money for a wedding. So we would wait until after Bella came and we could save up again.

But then about 2 weeks before bella's induction date, I think we just woke up one morning and realized....are we missing the point? We did all the hard stuff. We couldn't have had a better grasp on what our future holds together even if we had gone about the whole thing the "traditional" way. What was most important at the time:

1. we were ready. we knew what to anticipate. we were committed. we read the books. we did the worksheets. we had all of the sessions. this was it for life and we were giddy.

2. we wanted to enter the hospital to have our love child with same unifying name. Not sure why. we just felt it inside. that was more important than a wedding.

So......we went to the Nashville courthouse. None of our parents, brothers or sisters were living in Tennessee so we were totally by ourselves. We stood in the sweetest judge chamber. We said our vows. We exchanged rings. We donated money to one of the judges favorite charities rather than paying him a fee for marrying us (at his request). Oh and in case you're wondering, we chose the Vanderbilt Children's Hospital (for so many reason but that's another way too long story). Then we went to our favorite ***itty bitty*** italian restaurant on West End Avenue in Nashville. We called ahead. Nathan mentioned we were just married and were going to be having our reception there in about a half hour-just the 2 of us. The owner found some candles and adorable celebratory confetti and decorated our romantic 2 top in the corner.

We have not a single picture of such a perfect day.

Then 2 weeks later we had our miracle baby who showed us what life's all about.

Fast forward a few years later. We had slowly realized although we were 2000% supported in our decision to marry each other as we did, our families did somewhat feel they weren't able to "celebrate" our marriage with us. It kind of just "happened" and there it was. We have such a beautiful marriage and yet nothing that really "marked" it in anyone's memory or certainly in any photo album. I remember hearing my dad say for the first time just kind of in passing, "I never got to walk my baby girl down the isle"

it was crushing. it never occurred to me that forfeiting our "wedding vision" meant forfeiting other people's visions as well.

So we decided we would do a vow renewal. It wouldn't be a "wedding" but it would be big. It would have EVERYONE. Aunts, uncles, cousins, friends everyone. We would do it at 5 years. It would be a blast.

But then something about this year...we had some scary health issues happen on both sides of the family. The economy changed. We weren't sure where we would be living in a year. We ESPECIALLY weren't sure where everyone else would be living, My grandmother is in her 80s now and I already lost my grandfather. Oh and did I mention I just helped my sister plan the most incredibly dream wedding that I had always wanted and could never ATTEMPT to pull off myself even half as well? As much as I loved every second I sure as hell didn't want to do it again in a year!

Then a few months ago nathan and I popped into this TINY and indescribably charming restaurant in Carmel called La Bicyclette. You could never appreciate this restaurant unless you visit it yourself. There are literally 32 seats. That's it. Hardly room to move around. The food? impeccable. The vibe-even sweeter. We looked at each other and thought, what if we cut out all of the fluff and just did it here? find a beach in carmel the day of. renew our vows on the beach. have a intimidate dinner here right after? no we wouldn't be able to invite all of those that we would want to be there but we couldn't afford to anyway. It would be the bear necessities. Our immediate families. (on my side simply my mom, dad, stepfather, brothers, sister and grandmother-that's IT.) My dad getting to "walk" me. Nathan's mom getting to dance with him. ME getting to dance with nathan for the first time for goodness sakes. Why wait? Life doesn't wait. So what if it's not the 5 year. This is our life and this is how we're going to rock it.

And that's just what we did. I snagged a simple dress-a STEAL. we booked our dinner. We had exactly as many seats available as our immediate family and nathan's cherished friends who he was best man for. We sent out invitations. Then we didn't do much after that! The week of my sister in law and I went to a whole sale adorable flower boutique in los gatos. Looked for what "looked" fresh and pretty and in season. Decided on simple purple hydrangea. Ordered 7 bunches straight from the root. Picked them up in buckets of water the day of the renewal (my mom and stepdad would later stand outside la bicyclette in their dress up clothes and cut the flowers and set them up in their beautiful custom vases for the tables before heading off to the beach for the vows) Saw what flowers were pretty the weekend of and put together the bouquets and boutonnieres the night before in our hotel room ourselves. Told my sweet friend who makes wedding cakes to "go for it" and she did. She blessed us with a sweet cake. Hired 3 INCREDIBLE friends to take care of our photography, videography and makeup & hair. This was BIG for us because there were SO many people who we desperately wanted to be there. The only way we felt at peace was knowing we had hired the BEST of the best to capture it for our family and friends you were not able to share in person. Lots of laughs. Lots of tears. We wanted the vow renewal on the beach to be about me and nathan and celebrating our marriage. But the dinner-the dinner was ALL about our incredible family. It was an ode to them. We wanted to spoil them. We toasted them. We cried with them. We thanked them. For everything they have done for us in our journey. It was beautiful.

It was an amazing day and evening. A complete blessing from the God. We are very grateful.

That's our story-and we're sticking to it. When our images come back we will be so excited to share the details of our day but in the meantime-thank you everyone for all of your amazing kindness and support.

{Update}

To see the full blog post on our vow renewal by Tanja Lippert Photography

[sneak peek above]

go here:

http://tanjalippertphotography.blogspot.com/2010/11/nathan-and-lindseys-vow-renewal-carmel.html

or watch the incredible slideshow she did for us here:

http://www.tanjalippertphotographers.com/lindseyandnathan.html

The Styled Shoot | Calling All Photographers & Makeup Artists!!! {Mini Workshop}

2011-07-01T10:55:00.000-07:00

Seth and Giti Engagement Film from Luke Goodman on Vimeo.

TopsPhotoVideo.com | Tops Photo Video Review - Pass! Too Risky

2011-06-26T10:29:00.000-07:00

I'm taking this Sunday morning to write up a little review on TopsPhotoVideo.com - http://www.topsphotovideo.com/ - which is typically not my style but being in the business of professional photography is stinking expensive and can be quite nerve wracking & when it comes to gear and business relationships it's critical for us photographers to look out for each other.

Here's my experience:

I buy on Amazon all the time, usually from B&H or Adorama etc but I found the d700 for over $400 less than anywhere else. I was skeptical at first but checked out the website and it seemed legit. I really needed the camera asap for a wedding so I ordered it-of course red flags began to pop up after that.

First, things were just slightly off on the website. I realized there was no actual address of the business-even when I called to speak to them they would say nothing more than New York.

Then I realized much of their descriptions were literally copied and pasted from the B&H site. Also, many of the tabs on the site don't lead to anywhere.

When I called in to figure out why I was not sent a confirmation of purchase or shipping info (all I got was an order form email) to talk to customer service there was a man "Mark" (quite obviously not his real name but rather his "American" sounding name) couldn't give me any answers. He told me my order will ship in 1-2 days form ordering. I said, "I ordered it 2 days ago". He says, "oh well, 1-2 days from now"

I'm sorry but when I'm spending thousands of dollars with you, you need to be a little more professional.

Then I hang up and get an email saying there's something about my order they need to talk to me about. I call back in the guy tells me the battery for the BRAND NEW Nikon d700 only last 30 minutes and tries to upsell me a new battery and charger and warranty-WHICH THEN BRINGS THE PRICE ALL THE WAY BACK UP TO EVERYONE ELSE ON AMAZON.

I might as well drive down to Bestbuy-at least I'll get a warranty. I say no thank you, and he tries to haggle me saying he'll knock off $100 if I order it.

Um, are you serious? Am I at a flee market? Where did you get this gear anyway?
I did further investigating and saw some shifty reviews and the random positive reviews sounded pretty contrived. My instincts told me this was a bad idea. I tried to cancel the order on the website. No go. So I put a call back in and talked to "Mark" again to cancel my order. Fine he says frustrated. I ask him will I get some sort of confirmation email of cancellation? Yes I will. Well that was over a week ago-no such email and they won't respond now. I checked my credit card and they hadn't gotten a chance to charge it so I called the bank and had them totally cancel my card so that they couldn't cheat me out of it.

Still waiting on a cancellation. I'd rather spend a little more money and know that I'm giving my business to a legitimate company rather than some shifty guys working out of some backroom somewhere in NYC. Maybe they're just new at this but so far my experience is if looks like a duck.....

I'll update this if I get a proper response-but in the meantime my advice is PASS THIS ONE UP

Father's Day Giveaway

2011-06-20T08:58:00.000-07:00

Truth be told nathan absolutely HATED having to choose a favorite for this giveaway because there were SO many incredible, beautiful, hilarious and touching images. But there was one that touched him more than any. After much talk and deliberation it became clear who he wanted to send a gift to-and it isn't to a dad after all-it's to this little girl:

because if her daddy isn't here to love on her on father's day we like to for him.

And the winner of the fan favorite is this hilarious daddy below with 69 likes-WHOA!!!!!

Such a cute picture :-)

And to EVERYONE who participated in the contest we're offering you a gift certificate for HALF OFF a "Kids and Daddy" shoot-that's a $150 value-holy smokes that's a deal!! But we LOVE our facebook fans and are proud to spoil you <3

Thank you everyone who sent in their awesome pictures!!!! We loved every single one!! Keep an eye out for the next big giveaway on our facebook page!!! Email us for details on your gift!!!

Personal Post | What does "Bellalu" mean? | Luke Goodman Cinema

2011-06-15T04:48:00.000-07:00

We were thrilled and overjoyed when the facebook tag got dropped in our inbox-the insanely talented Luke Goodman & Pamela Francisco from Luke Goodman Cinema sent us a tangent video from the new larger promotional video we are making. But this one highlighted the most important things in our lives-our children-and the inspiration for everything we do.

We happily welcome you into this most precious part of our hearts and thank Luke for spending the morning in our very own backyard capturing us just doing what we do every day of our lives <3

Freitas 2011 Family Video from Luke Goodman on Vimeo.

Missed the sneak peek to Seth and Giti's engagement session also shot by Luke Goodman Cinema? Here's a encore :)

Seth and Giti Engagement Film from Luke Goodman on Vimeo.

Random Friday Post | My coffee tastes best in my Nikon 24-70mm lens

2011-06-10T08:40:00.000-07:00

no makeup, morning breathe, just for you from me. have an awesome friday :)

Bay Area Moms and Dads!! This is for you!!

2011-06-08T22:11:00.000-07:00

Luke Goodman Promo Video | Sneak Peek

2011-06-08T08:14:00.000-07:00

Check it out!! A little sneak peek into what we do!! Much more to come soon!

And if you haven't checked out Luke Goodman Photo + Cinema you're CRAZY! :)

<3 <3 <3

Freitas 2011 Family Video from Luke Goodman on Vimeo.

Elizabeth's Senior Shoot | Senior Portraits by Lindsey Freitas

2011-06-03T17:15:00.000-07:00

I seem to have always had a camera in my hand. If I wasn't setting my friends up with my conceptualized, poorly exposed and terribly directed "shoots" I was directing them on how I wanted the picture taken of myself. Typially done on plastic disposable film cameras everything was automatic and therefore destined to look like.....well.....a 12 year old pretending to be a photographer. And yet I would anxiously wait at my local grocery store the whole 60 minutes for the film to come back in little 3x5s and would decorate my locker or binders with my exquisite art. Take note folks:

my best attempt at rule of thirds-before I even knew there was such a thing. I remember telling my friend Brittany: Make sure the path veers to the left side of the pic. Now that I look at it I think she did a pretty good job of it-being that we're not even in focus and automatic cameras turn my friend kori's skin midnight and mine red rock.

This was a brilliant collaboration between myself, my cousin (in the back) and Kori again

(taking the picture)

so many terrible things going on in this picture-least of all my awful boy haircut...and the fact that we're in a wafflehouse bathroom hall in Hendersonville, Tennessee.

I might be 9 here. I'm sure you pick up on the theme I wanted. Thank you Lindsay Turgon, my childhood buddy, for executing my brilliant and incredibly artistic vision so perfectly.

Oh this might be my favorite in the worst way. I distinctly remember telling my cousin Amelia-"Make sure there's lots of blue sky in the background and I'm off to the right-I'm going to pose like I'm happy and free". When I look at this I see a boy with long hair incredibly relieved to be peeing.

Oh this is a gem. I'm directing passion out of my bud Rachael. The Christimas reefs and twinkling lights make it all the more intense and artistic. right........?

What you don't see the priceless art in these pictures?

well...I can't really blame you.

I ended up growing up and going to college to get a degree in journalism until I realized that I had it right the first time (albeit it in picture taking that was oh so wrong for many many years).

Shooting Elizabeth's senior session recently reminded me of how lucky both her and I are to have found our own paths. Liz is my sister-in-law's best bud and sent her my way when it was time for her senior portraits (and of course she came to the shoot as well)

Here's Elissa touching up Liz's makeup while balancing the white bounce in 2 inch wedges before getting started-a friend indeed :)

I have so much respect and adoration for this gorgeous woman. She kicked butt at Santa Clara University and we had to rock out a shoot for her to celebrate.

People like Liz make my job easy. I loved her sheik anthro style-we brought in Monina Wright from Moderne Beauty and had her play off of her dresses in her hair and makeup. Stunning. We had a BLAST!

Here's to growing up, working your ass off and breaking down doors left and right.

Cheers to all of us hard working women who head out into the world and rock it out on a daily basis.

And to our best friends whose support we carry with us along the way <3

Liz & Elissa

Event Photography | A Stylish French Themed Atherton Baby Shower by Lindsey Freitas

2011-06-02T21:20:00.000-07:00

I shot the most gorgeous French themed baby shower in Atherton, California recently created by the magnificently talented Sarah Lucas from Sarah Lucas Designs. I've worked with Sarah a few times now and it seems that everything she touches turns into pure gorgeousness. From the invitations to the custom designed cake everything was perfectly styled and adorned.

Mommy-to-be looked stunning for her day and enjoyed this special time with her family and friends! Check out her adorable cake created by BethAnn with Studio Cake -flawless as usual!

Vintage children's books decorated the tables about the property and guests offered their advice and well wishes on custom designed keepsake cards for the mommy-to-be <3

After dining under the immaculate white raj tent the guests were given their own blooming hydrangea plants as a thank you for sharing in the special day-simply beautiful.

This was such a treat for me to be a part of! This little baby boy is coming into the most loving family and I cannot wait until he arrives and I can capture some of his first precious moments with these special people <3

San Francisco Engagement Photography | Featured on The Oceanside Bride

2011-05-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

Lindsey and Eric's gorgeous San Francisco engagement session was featured this week on The Oceanside Bride!! Head over and check it out and leave them some love!! <3

Siena Turns One! Sneak Peek | San Jose Event Photography

2011-05-16T20:14:00.000-07:00

Recently I photographed one of the cutest birthday parties I've ever seen for one of the cutest 1 year olds I've ever seen :) Everything was themed around bugs from the custom bee cakepops to the pull pinata filled with live butterflies! And the children had the time of their lives! Siena's mommy works with brides and knows the most incredible event designers in the area! She had her fabulous team on hand to pull all the stops on this adorable party! Here's a sneak peek at some images from the day!

Siena's mommy had live butterflies and ladybugs for the children to "catch" in their butterfly nets that doubled as party favors! SO CUTE!

The Details

Zuesette Zamora -MARIZETTE PAPERIE

Crystal Lequang- Amazae Special Events

Nicola Ha- Nicole Ha Floral Design

PJ-Milk Glass Vintage Rentals

Jamie Garcia- Almaden Community Center

Rachael & Kyle Myers- Sweet Tooth Confections

Marcela Face Painting- mug_marce@hotmail.com

l

Happy Birthday Baby Siena!!!

Marissa + Peter | Los Altos Engagement Photography

2011-05-05T14:23:00.000-07:00

I had such a wonderful time shooting this adorable couple at the Los Altos History Museum and downtown San Jose last month supported once again by the incredible Monina Wright. These two were SO in love and SO easy to shoot (those two always go hand in hand). Marissa is a country girl and Peter is a city boy-so naturally we shot it both ways-and they ROCKED IT!!! We cannot wait to shoot their incredible wedding at Testarossa Winery in a few months!!

Mother's Day Give Away!

2011-05-03T18:08:00.000-07:00

Casa Real Vineyard Wedding | Lauren + Nick Highlights

2011-04-30T10:07:00.000-07:00

Lauren and Nicholas had the most gorgeous wedding in February at the incredible Casa Real. This whole event was hours of custom designed beauty from the olive trees and the chandelier the bride brought in to the incredible handmade chalk boards that they used as table numbers for their guests. The bride even surprised the groom by singing to him mid-reception-TEARS! We had an absolute blast shooting this and are so grateful to now be part of this incredible couple's memories of this most special day! Enjoy some highlights here or see their wedding slideshow set to music here!

The Details:

Event Location- Casa Real

Bride's Dress- Enzoani- belt, Shawl designed by seamstress

Bride's hair and makeup- Dustin David Salon of Los Gatos
*Dustin David-hair
*Jasmine Ashtiani-makeup

Event designer- Bride and mother

Flowers- Asiel Design

Cake- Not Just Cheescake

Catering- Casa Real

First dance song- Airborne Toxic Event "Book of Love"

DJ-- Sean Takase

Grow Your Soul Thursday (1 day early!) | Mona Foundation

2011-04-27T19:09:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week I saw about 14 different status updates on my personal facebook leading to the Mona Foundation and I figured it's about time I check it out-LOVE.

In their own words:

"The Mona Foundation is a nonprofit that is dedicated to supporting grassroots educational initiatives and raising the status of women and children across the world. We live by the guiding principles of Universal Education, Equality of Men and Women and Community Building.

Our goal is to connect you to education projects in need of support around the world. It works like this: We find locally operated programs that educate people of all backgrounds and raise the status of women. Mona then partners with them to offer assistance in fulfilling the community's goals. We then open our partnership up to Mona's community of donors to connect with the projects and join in the partnership. We do this while insuring that 100% of your donations go directly to the projects you are inspired by!"

So basically, we've all seen those sad ads on t.v. when we're up late at night with insomnia or screaming kids or just fill in the blank. You know you're meant to give money to a general fund that's supposed to help all of the starving, sad and yet totally adorable children on the screen. But if you're like me (and 40000 other skeptics in the world) you want to know...."where exactly is it all going?? how do I know? what is my impact?"

****disclaimer-there is NOTHING wrong with these organizations-in fact I've supported them in the past and they're doing great things-I'm speaking to those visual people like myself that need piece of mind along with their spiritual growth****

The Mona Foundation gives you even more control of your financial support to any given cause while still supporting the greater general cause of universal education. Awesome.

www.monafoundation.org/

I've investigated their website and how it works and love the flow. You can search projects happening RIGHT NOW that mean something to YOU specifically. Then you can get detailed information about how it's being funded and what's happening-you can even see how many other people are also donating to the specific project. It's FANTASTIC. And we're not necessarily talking about 1 million dollar projects that you send your money to and hope for the best-you can literally see how much additional money is needed and if you're feeling particularly generous (and I'm not even talking rich) you can go in and get that project COMPLETELY-bam right there. So neat.

here's the jist:

Mona's based on 3 principles:

1. Universal Education-everyone has the right to an education-particularly females in developing countries who despite having the key position in the upbringing and education of their children are not often given access or right to educate themselves.

2. Equality of Men and Women-here in America do you realize women were only FINALLY given the right to vote in 1920-that's less than 100 years ago folks and that's only in AMERICA. I think (know) sometimes we take our rights for granted here in the states and forget that we are far ahead in many many things-including female equality. You need not go far in your travels to realize just how many of our fellow women in the world have absolutely no rights and are still to this day treated as property. It's got to stop.

3. Community Building-seriously, come on now-could there truly be anything more important in our society?!? You cannot expect a solid, healthy and functioning society when its foundation is crumbling or lacking entirely.

www.monafoundation.org/

So how does it work? SO EASY! Go to the website...search for projects that mean something to YOU...support those exact project and watch their progress.

done. so easy.

Or if you just keep tabs on them via their facebook, twitter or website you'll find featured projects like these:

www.monafoundation.org/

It's so simple and fantastic. I'm in love....

So if you haven't checked them out yet-go for it...and please please please head over to their facebook page and give them a "LIKE". It's free and it's easy and it helps spread the word if nothing else!!

Huffington Post | Thistle Farms | Bellalu Photography

2011-04-27T08:37:00.000-07:00

We're so proud of Thistle Farms-a charity I highlighted last year HERE- and all of the much deserved attention they're getting in the news right now. I got a sweet email from the incredible ladies there last night:

"Hi Lindsey,

We have a 3 part feature right now on NPR, and Huffington Post's impact section (their inspiring stories) contacted us a few hours ago to cover the story but give people specific things they can do to help. They created a lovely piece and one of your photographs of the women accompanies it.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/04/26/magdalene-and-thistle-farms_n_854130.html

here is a screen shot - at the moment it is the lead story on their Impact section, but of course I'm not sure how long that will last. your photo is so positive, and empowering and joyful. it perfectly expresses joy and we are so very grateful for your gifts!"

How cool is that!? We're so proud of this incredible organization and wish them future growth and support worldwide! If you STILL haven't checked them out-I don't know what you're waiting for-get on it!! :)

Luis + Caitlin | San Francisco Engagement Photography

2011-04-20T23:20:00.000-07:00

What a blast we had rocking out another gorgeous San Francisco engagement session a few weeks ago with the fabulous Monina Wright in tow of course! We'll just call this shoot: The Red Shoes

We had so much fun playing off of both Caitlin and Luis' laid back style and killer good looks :)

and again-the shoes-love....

after Caitlin and Luis smoked up the barracks we went down to the beach and goofed off for a while-they were amazing!!!

Caitlin and Luis love the city-love love love it...so we talked about doing some night shots utilizing only San Francisco light-no artificial flash of any kind-I love the mood just the ambient city light gives-these deep sort of romantic shots that are just killer mixed with their style and swagger ;)

Needless to say, we're pretty dang excited to shoot their incredible wedding coming up fast!! Don't forget to leave some comment love for these two darling people!!

Shelton Family Shoot Sneak Peek | Gold Coast, Australia

2011-04-13T23:05:00.000-07:00

Blog Images Down for Site maintenance

2011-04-13T11:55:00.000-07:00

We'll be back up soon!

Wedding DJ Ron Grandia | San Jose Museum of Art

2011-03-24T10:37:00.000-07:00

We've been to a LOT of weddings...A LOT....and when it comes to the reception it has been made abundantly clear to us that the better the DJ-the better the party.

I think we used to be kind of ignorant as to how critical it is to successfully get the party going at a killer wedding-because let's face it-we've ALL been to a boring wedding or two...or three...

We've come to find out-it's all about the DJ. And it's so much more than the actual music played...it's about the quality of the equipment, the personality, the lighting....if you get those key things right-you've taken your event to a whole nother' level :)

We got to shoot one of our FAVORITE Bay Area DJ's Ron Grandia at a local NACE meeting held at the San Jose Museum of Art. We wanted to get some moody "live" shots to mix with some new headshots for him we'll be doing later and it was SO much fun!!

perhaps a little TOO fun :)

Peninsula Golf and Country Club Wedding | Lisa + Mike

2011-03-21T22:06:00.000-07:00

Mike and Lisa's gorgeous wedding at the Peninsula Golf and Country Club was one of the most touching and creative we've ever worked on. Lisa's gorgeous little firecracker personality mixed with Mike's gently nature made this day not only visually perfect but an absolute blast to work on!

There were so many sentimental touches from the jewelry wrapped around Lisa's bouquet to the handmade moss petal holders and table decor. Soooooo pretty!

The ceremony held in the PGCC's grand ballroom was absolutely stunning and incredibly emotional.

After the ceremony we had about a 6 minute window where we peeked outside and realized the sky was pink and blue and absolutely breathtaking. We stole the bride and groom out the side door to snag some shots before the sun went down...

Everything about this wedding was personalized. Vintage buttons mixed with moss and tree branches and a gorgeous and delicious cake made by the incredible Studio Cake Design were just some of the exquisite touches Lisa and Mike treated their guests with during their reception.

What an absolutely amazing day!! We're beyond blessed to have been asked to be part of this incredible experience and wish Lisa and Mike all of the best in life and love :)

Venue | Peninsula Golf and Country Club
Dress | Bridal Galleria
Hair and Makeup | Monina Wright
Cake | Studio Cake Design

Testarossa Winery Photography | Carlie + Gabe

2011-03-20T21:04:00.000-07:00

We teamed up with The Ranch Studios and Danny Lund for today's bridal shoot at Testarossa Winery. This incredible shoot was done almost completely in film so unfortunately you'll have to wait for the full blog :) But until then, check out how Gabe and Carlie rocked it OUT in our digital preview!!! We had about 2 hours of a pause in the heavy rain right at the PERFECT time!!! Special thanks to Monina Wright for Carlie's perfect hair and makeup :-)

Bay Area Engagement Photography | Zanne + Andrew

2011-03-18T12:00:00.000-07:00

Zanne and Andrew aren't technically from the Bay Area but made the trip down to us after absolutely rocking the Valentine's Cuties contest we did on our Facebook page in February! They're getting married in Tennessee very soon and we were thrilled to be able to take them out and pull off a kick butt mini-engagement session before their big day!!

Andrew is in the military and works on planes so I thought it would be perfect to shoot in this small flower patch right in front of the runway-they were SO STINKING CUTE!! Total naturals!

Thank you so much to everyone who helped them win their shoot!! And if you aren't a fan on our facebook page get on over there! We do these contests all the time!!

Santa Clara Engagement Shoot | Nicole + Drew

2011-03-18T10:18:00.000-07:00

One of the best parts about living here in California is the endless amount of options when shooting engagement shoots with our clients! One week we'll be up in the snow and the next we're down in an orchard...or at the historic Santa Clara Train Station in this case :)

Check out highlights from Nicole and Drew's adorable engagement shoot last week!!! And don't forget to show them some comment love since they rocked it out so fabulously!

Alice + Will | Rain, Snow & Sun-Just another Santa Cruz, California Engagement Session!

2011-03-07T14:23:00.000-08:00

I know I know, we talk about how much we adore our couples allllllll the time but please allow me to produce reason #2401053.

Alice and Will flew down from San Diego for their engagement shoot so we had 1 shot at it. Wouldn't you know it within the 3 hours we shot we got a rain storm, a snow storm and a gorgeous bright afternoon! It was AMAZING!! And these two were totally up for it! They absolutely rocked it out!!!

Here's some highlights from the day! Special thanks to Camille Goldston for keeping Alice pristine and fresh the entire day!! Amazing work!!!

Personal Post | Lindsey | Field Trip to the Firestation

2011-03-01T22:48:00.000-08:00

We're not videographers but we are proud parents :) Nathan missed out on this field trip so I put this together for him on the fly. Special thanks to the amazing Santa Clara Fire Department for being so welcoming!!!

Bellalu Photography | M Magazine | Riley's Place

2011-03-01T22:31:00.000-08:00

Check out Riley's Place featured in the new M Magazine!! We're so excited about this-we absolutely adore this non-profit! Look for their blogpost soon as well!!!

Miss Shelby at the Train Station | Images by Lindsey

2011-02-17T08:38:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to shoot at the train station in the second half of this shoot for 8 months....it's one of those things that crawls into your head and waits until the perfect opportunity to jumped out. This happens a lot for me- I'd say a good 70% of my brain space is taken up by future shoot ideas that sometimes take years to full execute :-) This is why when Shelby contacted me and wanted to get some shots done for her portfolio I knew EXACTLY what I wanted to do with her :-)

Shelby has these INSANE cheek bones that I'm obsessed with

and her eyes are pretty ridiculous as well

Shelby also has these LOOOOONGGGG legs that I'm quite jealous of. She's a good 8 inches taller than me. yes.

She did an incredible job and I cannot wait until our next shoot :)

Peninsula Golf and Country Club Wedding

2011-02-07T09:49:00.000-08:00

We shot the most gorgeous wedding this past weekend at the Peninsula Golf and Country Club

Stay tuned for the full blog post!

p.s. look at this gorgeous wedding cake from Studio Cake in Menlo Park! More of that to come as well!!

Mr. and Mrs.....

2011-01-24T12:09:00.000-08:00

If you haven't checked out the facebook albums on these two couples recently married & captured by yours truly then get over there! Their full blogs are on route! Stay tuned!!

Grow Your Soul Thursday | Thistle Farms Take 2!!

2011-01-20T08:41:00.000-08:00

Do you remember when we posted about Thistle Farms last year?

Check it out in case you missed it:

http://bellaluphotography.blogspot.com/2010/03/feed-your-soul-thursday-thistle-farms.html

Somehow through magic of the internet shortly after the post I was contacted by Carolyn Snell-a volunteer with Thistle Farms who apparently is pretty tech savy (or perhaps I'm just very much NOT tech savy ha!) letting me know somehow she traced the links from her site back to my blog! She wanted to thank me for highlighting them and figure out who the heck I was :)

that's Carolyn on the right-ain't she cute? :)

After chatting I came to realize that they could use some new promo photos of their brand new location and their process! Well of course they're in Nashville but we were not scheduled to shoot back in Tennessee for a while so she so patiently waited for me to finally get back there on my most recent trip! It was absolutely amazing.......

I was able to show up bright and early and join their prayer and sharing time in the morning-an absolutely healing experience that even more so clearly showed what Thistle Farms is all about.

These women are a-m-a-z-i-n-g. I really cannot say anything more. They're kind, smart, strong, supportive and HARD WORKERS! They were knocking these products out with love and care and with full attention to detail.

I guess you always see the tag "handmade" but I never trust tags-perhaps I'm a skeptic....but these products are literally hand made one by one by these women alone! And they are luxurious!!

All of these women were so open and grateful. I cannot even fathom what these beautiful ladies have seen and experienced and yet this was so obviously a place of peace and healing-truly a sanctuary where not only were they offered support but they were given the opportunity to truly partake in something tangible-to produce the same wonderful products that support this cause that has saved them and given them purpose and hope.

Honestly one of the most impressive creations to me were the handmade thistle boxes that house some of their best products. These were literally made by hand from the thistle plants directly and create this gorgeous little box!

If you have a special event coming up or will be giving a gift to someone special any time soon I encourage you to look into this amazing organization. And of course they ship all over the world so all of you California people can easily get anything you would need!

My time spent at this amazing place was even more profound than I anticipated. I could not stop thinking about my brides and how wonderful it would be if they used these gorgeous creations as wedding favors instead of the typical things you so often see-and it's all awesome stuff! I've tried it all! Lip balms, lotions, candles, soaps, bath tea...you name it and it's amazing. I'm actually going to need to put in an order soon because my delish room spray is running low :)

I think more than anything these women were truly celebrated and appreciated. Some were at different places than others on their journey but all were loved and completely accepted.

Part of why I love Grow Your Soul Thursday (despite the fact that I'm frequently tardy on my posting!) is that it creates these amazing ties and relationships just by the click of the publish button. This work that me and Nathan do for these organizations is a huge part of us and constantly keeps us humble and grateful for the blessing that are constantly pouring into our lives. We can't wait to go back and visit again and capture more images for these amazing women!!

P.S! If you haven't already, PLEASE become a fan on the Thistle Farms Facebook page! It helps spread the word in a simple easy way! And if you haven't already checked out their website and blog-get going!! Hey we even made it on the blog ourselves! Check it out!

http://thistlefarms.blogspot.com/2011/01/take-trip-to-farm.html

Oh and guess what I got the other day in the mail???

I adore it :*********)

It's proudly hanging on my office wall and I love when it catches my eye and reminds me of the beautiful places this work I do has taken me....such a gift....

Do you know an amazing non-profit that could use a little love and attention?? Whether a blog post, a facebook shout out or much needed promotional pics just email us!

Lindsey@bellaluphotography.com or Nathan@bellaluphotography.com

Happy Birthday Lindsey!

2011-01-19T19:08:00.000-08:00

We want to give a bride of ours a very special shout out! This week is her birthday week!! And we kicked it off with an awesome engagement session this past weekend! We can't wait to get it processed and posted! It's going to be FABULOUS!! :)

David+Alicia | San Francisco Engagement Session

2011-01-19T18:53:00.000-08:00

David and Alicia are getting married in Hawaii! WOOHOO!!!! But before they left they contacted me wanting to shoot in the city they love-San Francisco :) Well heck yeah!

You know there's nothing more I love than the City by the Bay!! Naturally we started the day off by getting the couple all dolled up at Monina Wright's studio and set off for this fun say of shooting!!

Enjoy some highlights!

We started in Golden Gate Park which of course means nothing because it's SO big!! We shot in numerous places within the same area and had a ball!

and ended at the Ferry Building at the end of Market....

<3

What I love about San Francisco is EVERY time we shoot there we find something totally new and unique!! Stay tuned for some stuff in the works and you'll know what I mean :)

Random Personal Post-Film meets The Tech Musuem

2010-12-22T08:06:00.000-08:00

The other day, Bella, my dad and I went to the Tech Museum in San Jose. That's right, not the Discovery Museum for kids, but the Tech Museum. I felt Bella would learn more from the Tech Museum because there would be less kids or parents around. I was right about the second part but not the first. Who would of thought a 4 year old would have a short attention span.....

Bella took her first film shots of me!!!

I also felt this was a good opportunity to teach Bella about public transit, so we drove to the parking lot near the bus stop and took the forty five minute bus right from there.

The simple bus ride brought Bella so much joy. Sometimes I forget how fascinating things are for little ones who have not experienced too much of the world yet. There are moments in life were I try to live with this this child-like ignorance but it's dang hard.

Bella typed her name on a computer screen and the robot arranged the blocks to spell her name.

We then saw this really cool space video in IMAX. Yes... that's a picture of a movie.

Wherever Bella is she brings her crack... look closely please!

More personal shoots to come...

Peace out

-Nathan Freitas

-Nikon F100, Fuji Pro 400H-

Kati and Pete's Costanoa Wedding Weekend

2010-12-16T16:10:00.000-08:00

To say we were blessed to shoot the amazing wedding of Kati and Pete at the incredible Costanoa Resort would be a terrible understatement. This 3 day long beautiful extravaganza was both completely unique, beautifully designed and thoughtfully created to honor both the couple and their beautiful family and friends who had journeyed from all over the world to celebrate this amazing union.

Kati and Pete met at UC Santa Cruz and share a mutual love of the sea so much so that it played an integral part in their wedding day from the color of the bride's dress (turquoise honoring Yemaya- Goddess of the living Ocean) to the unbelievably gorgeous & deeply spiritual seaside ceremony. There were countless details and pieces created with so much thought and attention that made up this wedding-there's no way I could even begin to recall it all-but I will do my best! Come journey with me!!!

K & P have a serious love for sunflowers which you'll see throughout their wedding-they grew all of the sunflowers themselves and brought them out to California! NO JOKE! Here is the invitation-gorgeously crafted and stamped with their custom tandem design (you'll learn more about that later!) PLUS it came last year with a little satchel of sunflower seeds and just in case you can't read it:

"When flowers appear the time is near to celebrate by the sea..."

seriously? adorable.

The weekend kicked off with THE most legit talent show you've ever seen! Seriously, they went all out for this! From the cozy decor to the incredible vegetarian cuisine and hot apple cider dessert-it was amazing.

Kati is also a photographer and teacher and put SO MANY personal touches on her innumerable creations!!!

Kati and Pete kicked off the event and loosened everyone up by performing this ridiculously awesome joint yoga thingamajig performed to their friend who was reading allowed this poem that perfectly narrated the movements and crazy positions they were able to support each other in. Oh yeah, did I mention they're both the most in shape people you've ever met? Between yoga, surfing and biking I hope to one day be half as ripped.....

Pete's mommy and daddy sang him an original :*********)

Oh yeah...and did I mention Pete is a agroecology major who teaches nutritional cooking at Maxwell Park International Academy? Check him out! For the wedding feast Pete grew all of the food back home in Utah at his incredible Sandhill Farms-they literally planted their own wedding garden to feed their guests!!! Holy moly it was DELICIOUS!!!

After a late night of laughter everyone went to bed in their various luxurious cabins, adorably comfortable tents or awesome camp sites (another reason I ADORE Costanoa-they had something perfect for EVERYONE!) only to wake up bright and early Saturday morning for some fabulous yoga led by the bride and groom's sweet friend...

I couldn't believe the flexibility and agility so many (okay all) of these folks have-many of whom are quite a bit more "mature" in their journeys than I-totally put me to shame (and reminded me it's been about 4 months since my last Ashtanga class-I need to get on that)

It was a fabulous time for fellowship and a great way to cleanse and prepare for the wedding!

While the guests enjoyed various hiking paths or a yummy lunch in the lodge lounge Kati withdrew to her lodge room to prepare for the beautiful ceremony...

while Pete ventured down to the sea side with his closest friends and family to meditate and take in the incredible moment before creating the amazing landscape that would serve as the backdrop for his wedding ceremony.

he then prepared himself for Kati

and was ready to go...

We arranged for Kati and Pete to have their reveal in a hidden cove not far from their ceremony site. My husband set Pete up and gave him a moment to take a breath before I had Kati come through the cave into the cove...

After they took some time together it was time for the parade! That's right...I said parade.

Kati and Pete's guests met them at the top of the trail and led them down to the seaside with drums, flags and of course-lots of sunflowers!!

all the way down the path and to the seaside where the guests happily removed their shoes and took a spot by the sunflower alter....

They then enjoyed one of the more loving and spiritual wedding ceremonies I have ever seen. Their very talented friend sang them in

Pete's parents walked him in carrying their oversized gorgeous sunflowers

and then Kati's parents walked her in

which caused Pete to give one of my all time favorite groom reactions (he simply turned around and giggled out loud at the sea)

this ceremony was filled with music, dancing, touching words and sweet ceremonial gifts including both the groom's and bride's parents puling apart a garlic bulb (remember Pete is a garlic grower) and planting them all together symbolizing the start of this new season of life and the two families forever connected and growing through life together.

What happened after the bride and groom kissed you ask? Well remember all of those gorgeous sunflowers Pete and Kati grew themselves? All of the guests were given one and everyone took a moment of quiet to meditate and pray into these flowers all of the beautiful thoughts and prayers they have for Pete and Kati....then they all went into a huge basket and Kati and Pete were pushed out into the ocean where they took a moment out at sea to offer the sunflowers to Yemaya and show their gratitude for the amazing experience.

and you know what happens next......these weren't your average wedding guests-they weren't about to let Kati and Pete have all the fun-they jumped in as well! It was a gorgeous day on that warm Santa Cruz beach!

The couple and their guests went back to the lodge and celebrated into the night! Dancing, music, delicious food and a very non traditional strawberry shortcake wedding cake :) YUMMMMMY!!!!

to end the night, Pete called everyone to the lawn to watch the moon rise-stunning doesn't even begin to describe it. What an amazing night it was....

What are they up to now you ask?

Well instead of registering for pots and pans and whatnot they registered for an amazing tandem bike (get the theme?!)

p.s. one of their sweet friends created this graphic especially for them which they used on various sweet touches throughout the wedding from the invitations themselves to the reusable canvas wedding favor satchels filled with wine and goodies!! (notice the garlic for Pete & the flower for Kati! SO cute!!!)

Back to the bike....

A guest could literally go to the bike shop and choose a piece of the bike that Kati and Pete had already registered for and they could buy it for their bike and voila! The most amazing wedding present in the history of weddings!

PLUS they pushed off from their wedding and rode all the way down to the border and eventually to Cuba where they are currently traveling from province to province on the tandem bike interviewing and documenting the tremendous sustainable organic agriculture movement in Cuba! And word has it-they're writing a book about it! But until then, their fabulous Lives in Tandem blog will have to hold you over :)

New Orleans PartnerCon

2010-12-01T20:38:00.000-08:00

Last month I was super stoked to travel to New Orleans for the 2010 NOLA PartnerCon Conference (photographers essentially). I met so many amazing people and spent 3 days learning & discovering and getting to know amazing photographers from all over the world. And the best part is our hotel was right on French Quarter which meant 3 days of me getting to venture off on my own (in between lectures of course) with my camera and capturing an incredible city just how I saw it-the good and the bad. I saw some amazing things and it was a beautiful time of spiritual and professional growth.

Here are some highlights from my walk through the French Quarter...enjoy :)

One morning I was in a boudoir workshop-I was supposed to be taking pictures of this gorgeous lady here but I was totally distracted by the awesome hotel behind her and would have much rather her not be standing there at all. I decided to ditch the workshop and do more shooting out on my own-a good call....

this street artist was very talented...he told me stories and let me take his pictures. I have a small obsession with very old people....I love them :)

One day we went to the 9th ward and did family shoots for families who lost everything in the hurricanes-amazing...

I found this chandelier in the window one night after the shop closed and came back the next morning to find our how much....I had to let it go...but I'm still in love...

Lisa+Mike Wine Cellar Engagement Session

2010-11-23T13:07:00.000-08:00

We shot the coolest engagement shoot in Hillsborough, California recently to gear up for the awesome wedding of Lisa and Mike! We shot at Lisa's childhood home where the surroundings were nothing short of breathtaking. After looking around the house a bit I stumbled upon their amazing wine cellar and knew we HAD to shoot there-of course they were both totally up for it!

Here's a sneak peek at their session! Look out for their wedding next year!!!

SoulPancake Book Launch with Rainn Wilson

2010-11-17T12:51:00.000-08:00

We're not gonna lie, shooting the SoulPancake book launch party with Rainn Wilson this past weekend in Los Angeles was just as fun as we anticipated. Not to rub it in your face or anything but if you live in L.A. and you're weren't there.....well then I don't know where the heck you were...

Don't know what SoulPancake is? You're not paying attention!!

I mentioned it a few posts back when I shamlessly plugged my cousin Ferraby and his new music video featuring the always hysterical Rainn Wilson:

Still don't know? No worries...let me hook you up...

or here

http://www.nbc.com/The_Office/video/rainn-wilson-launches-soulpancake-book/1257953/

or here

http://news-briefs.ew.com/2009/08/25/rainn-wilson-book/

or here and here

http://www.daemonsbooks.com/2010/11/05/soulpancake-book-trailer-featuring-rainn-wilson/

http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2010-11-05/rainn-wilson-book-office-actor-releases-soul-pancake/

You get the picture....

I got mine from Amazon a couple weeks ago right before hopping on a flight to a photography conference in New Orleans-perfect timing! I dove into it on the plane and fell in love. You really just have to flip through it to truly "get it". I wanted to buy one for every person in my family and circle of friends. I wanted to give them out on street corners and drop them in random mailboxes-but alas my husband might have divorced me if I drained our bank account going SP crazy so I settled on a respectable 5 copies and the plan to pick his brain apart before bed every night for the next few months/years with insightful questions....

Aside from the obvious joy I got from being able to chat with Rainn Wilson....

****side note: I'm not going to pretend I'm not mildly *intensely* obsessed with The Office...everyone knows for my "Push Present" after giving birth to Luci I told my husband instead of the normal jewelry or bracelet charms or couture baby books I requested every season of The Office available on dvd which he happily delivered on...I can honestly say Luci probably heard Dwight's voice just as much as her own father's in her first week of life...***

...I was also thrilled to finally be able to meet Golriz Lucina & Shabnam Mogharabi
who I've heard so much about and who are just as sweet and charming as they were rumored to be....

oh and of course it was great to see the uber sweet Devon Gundry again who I was in youth group with back in Nashville (there's the connection in case you're wondering)

So here's a few pics from the awesome launch party we were honored and delighted to shoot! The event was an interactive experience where many of the cool ideas and activities from the book were created on tables for everyone to try out and explore-people were WAY into it. It was so cool to walk around easedropping on people's thoughts and expressions as they dove a little deeper with one another.

If you were one of the great supporters who were there that night and are looking for your pic with Rainn we posted the complete set on our facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/BellaLuPhotography

Go there and become a fan-then we'll tag you up! Make sure you share the link with your friends too!!!

oh and p.s.

get the book. like..............NOW! Go! Go! Go!

SoulPancake

2010-11-15T15:39:00.000-08:00

We had SUCH a great time shooting the SoulPancake launch party! SO fun!!! If you're looking for pics you're in the right place! Stay tuned!!!

hey! I know her! Wow, I'm REALLY short.

Yellow Brick Road Dance

2010-11-15T15:23:00.000-08:00

Last year we were so excited to be asked to participate in such an awesome event and we were invited back this year as well!! The Yellow Brick Road Dance was a special event put on by West Gate Church specifically for youngsters with special needs who so often miss out on the funnest parts about being students and young adults-DANCES! From the lights to the dj, the candy table and the pizza-these kiddos were spoiled rotten-as they should be! And of course everything was completely free for them-they just had to come and dance the night away-they were happy to oblige...we were too :)

The complete set is on our facebook page! You might even see a few with my own kiddos dancing away :)

http://www.facebook.com/BellaLuPhotography#!/album.php?aid=244311&id=57689946794

not on facebook yet? You're missing out!!!! We're constantly giving away awesome gifts and helpful links! Come by and say HI!!!

San Jose Children's Photography Mini Shoot

2010-11-12T21:15:00.000-08:00

Here's a sneak peek at today's adorable family photography session in San Jose-these kiddos were adorable and so much fun! It never ceases to amaze me how much great stuff we can get in these mini sessions! And they adored their gorgeous dog Murry!

2010-11-07T23:28:00.000-08:00

Special thanks to all of my Nashville folks who are being so patient waiting for their shoots to come back! We're almost there!

Jackson

a photographer's diet

2010-11-07T23:26:00.000-08:00

when you're workin your tail off at a wedding sometimes the only time you get to stop and eat is after all the guests have left and the staff is breaking down the room. Under such circumstances I find it's best to go straight to the cake table...and go ahead and grab 2 slices. Props to my hubby (aka second shooter) for such an attractive shot of yesterday's meal (and Sweet Tooth Confections for supplying it)

Oh Fall.....

2010-11-05T09:06:00.000-07:00

I've been missing....since my birthday I suppose which was almost a month ago! YIKES! Where have I been?

One guess:

Well I'll tell you anyway in case the cowboy boots didn't give it away...

(aren't they fun by the way? I've been searching for the right cowboy boots for over a year. Apparently in California they are hard to find-the real ones at least-the ones that mold to your feet and can be refinished like hardwood floors. I had to go all the way to Nashville to get some legit kicks and they're luxurious. The man who sold them to me looked like he just walked off his ranch-always a good sign. I'm hoping they'll last until I'm too old to walk anyway)

Oh Nashville....you have such a special place in my heart.

We had a family reunion in Little Rock, Arkanasas and then made the 6 hour drive through Memphis and into Nashville-naturally indulging in Cracker Barrels along the way where Luci adopted numerous lost baby dolls and dragged them through the store.

oh and while on the subject of food-I gained 3 pounds while on vacation and promptly came home last week, sat down in and subsequently broke my kitchen chair.

yes. I did.

Daily trips to the Loveless Cafe, Jack's BBQ and trips to our family friend's place Julia's Homestyle Bakery will do that to you. We got to go in the back and get a sneak peek at the bakery....

No regrets. Calories well spent.

My grandfather lives in Australia and flew all the way out for the family reunion. We spent some very precious time with him taking an afternoon to grab a few family shots.

my children refuse to wear their shoes on the correct feet...my grandpa didn't want them to feel left out...

We snagged a few shots of my mom and her new hubby since they're 1st anniversary is this month!

It was a very special day.

We also went to the absolute best pumpkin patch I have ever seen (and I've seen A LOT!) I can't believe I never found it all of the years I lived there! Walden Farm in Smyrna, Tennessee is completely free to enter. It has the absolute most charming buildings and decor and activities for the kiddos. Little goats, horses, chickens, an awesome hay maze for young kiddos, a cute little tracker pull and they sell HOT corn on the cob and it's A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! That's just a few things out of the many many many things they have-and most of them are free or close to it!! It's a fall heaven and if I lived in Tennessee I would be there once every 3 days during their open season.

Here's a few shots of the girls enjoying this awesome place...

What a treat.....and can you believe it's already November? whoa.

So you'll be seeing some posts from some fun Nashville shoots we did in and around my beautiful city.

Enjoy!!!

Favorite Things Friday-A Very Special Birthday Post

2010-10-08T10:55:00.000-07:00

I've been alive for 25 years.

I've seen the Grand Canyon, swam in the Atlantic Ocean, gone to the top of the Seattle Space needle and the Sears Tower. I've ran along the Mississippi River in a New Orleans hurricane and caught snow on my tongue in a Canadian winter. I've run grassroots presidential campaigns and pee'd my pants on a Disneyland ride. I've witnessed 8 beautiful live births and sat in a hospital room & watched a close friend die. I've served Keith Urban a beer and lined danced at a country bar in front of 2,000 people. I've married a good, good man. I've given birth to 2 beautiful children and miscarried 3 angels. I've ran a half marathon and swam with dolphins. (both of which I'll NEVER do again). I am the CEO of my own small business and the daughter of a humble musician. I'm old enough to be married to a man with gray hair and worry about the health of my parents. I've lived through earthquakes and tornadoes and witnessed 25 Happy New Year's. In that short amount of time I've seen some pretty incredible things. I've seen beautiful things and devastating things. 25 is not an incredible number-aside from the fact that I can now officially rent a car with out a "sponsor". But this year I got to do something extra special-a first for me.

I got to witness the adoption of a sweet little boy-rescued from foster care by two absolutely devoted parents. Out of all of the things that I've seen and witnessed in my life, this was by far one of the most profound. And on my birthday, there is nothing else I'd like to do but to share this very special celebration of life with you.

Kente arrived in style on his adoption day. I almost tackled him when I walked up he was so completely edible.

Kente and my little Luci have been dating for about a year now I'd say. They have a very special relationship built on a mutual understanding of how to melt people's hearts by pairing the perfect outfits with the most adorable coy stares.

how could Kente resist those boots?

Kente's entourage of loud and silly toddlers filled otherwise sullen court hallways with joyful laughter and curiosity...at one point they were all four on the ground peeking through doors and most definitely thoroughly confusing the proceedings on the other side.

Upon entering the court room Kente and his big brother Isaiah quickly found the court room mics and made themselves at home.

Isaiah was the first lucky boy to join this joyful family. He was also adopted out of foster care in this same courtroom when he was little. Somehow he got his hands on the judge's gavel.

I think we all got chilla when Shauna and Chris both raised their hands and vow'd to love this boy as their own son for the rest of his life-to support him both financially and emotionally. To be his mommy and daddy forever.

It was a touching moment for everyone in the courtroom including the judge...

Outside on the court steps we got a big group shot of Kente with his aunties, uncles, grandparents and cousins!

as well as an official shot of this beautiful new family.

I've photographed a lot of things in my career...but this...this was absolutely remarkable. Documenting such a incredibly profound day in this little human's life was beyond humbling. When I think of the future both of these boys have ahead of them, the love, care, devotion and unending possibilities...it gets me a little choked up.

Adoption is of couse miraculous. But attempting to adopt out of foster care takes courage and strength beyond my imagination. Nothing about it is simple. Nothing about it is secure. Nothing about it promises an outcome that you want. There are many risks to take, many hoops to jump through and numerous unknowns. But the faith of Shauna and Chris through the journeys of both of these little boys should be an example of humanity at its finest. I'm blessed to call them close friends.

The creation of a family? That definitely calls for a Favorite Things Friday post.

Baby Cruz has arrived!!

2010-10-04T14:40:00.000-07:00

What makes baby toes & fingers so irresistible? I'll never understand. But I'm not alone in my obsession.

I had a bad cold when baby Cruz was born so I postponed his newborn shoot because I get super duper close to my little bellalu babies having survived a bad case of RSV (my baby not me of course) I wouldn't dare risk sharing it with another precious bundle of joy. But once I was on the mend I couldn't wait to cuddle with this little man.

I've heard it said that photographers often subconsciously attract clients like themselves. Being that I'm a baby freak (particularly toes and fingers) I was not surprised when Cruz's adoring daddy offered me Cruz's toes to nibble on myself. And we are now bonded :)

Congratulations to Cari & Arsene and their new little love Cruz!!

Christina+George-A GORGEOUS Los Altos Wedding

2010-09-29T16:59:00.000-07:00

To say we had fun shooting Christina and George's fabulous Greek wedding would be a huge understatement. Aside from the fact that the bride was stunning in every way, the wedding focused around family and tradition as well as gorgeous sunflowers (my favorite!)

Look at this flawless woman...

stunning...

her honey George ain't so bad either..

not only is she beautiful, she's also the sweetest thing ever. We took her and her also beautiful entourage to the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden to snag some shots before heading off to the church.

hello gorgeous bridal party.

Their traditional Greek ceremony was at the gorgeous Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church.

I have a thing for stained glass windows...

after their ceremony we all headed over to the Los Altos History Museum for their awesome reception. I adore this location. Seriously it's amazing. In addition to the fun artifacts like the cherry red tractor and barn (which went perfectly with Christina's sunflower centerpieces) out back there's this beautiful vineyard. We snagged more group shots there before the party began.

Christina and George had this awesome photobooth where her guest got to put on fun costumes and put their pictures in a guest album for the bride and groom. Hilarious.

Then came the toasts which made everyone laugh like crazy (and cry as well of course!)

Christina and her dad shared a touching dance

followed by George and his mom breaking it DOWN Greek style

Then the coolest part? Christina secretly changed into this amazing white dress and they busted out the most incredible first dance straight from Dirty Dancing

people went NUTS

George chased Christina with their wedding cake...

but they made up in time for a night of CRAZY fun dancing!!!

Seriously, have you ever seen a grown man jump this high and come down and immediately take a shot on the floor? I didn't think so.

It was a sensational night for a truly sensational couple!!

Once again we were blessed to be a part of it!! Congratulations Christina and George!!!

Iman+Hillary Welcome FALL!!

2010-09-26T23:10:00.000-07:00

Shooting Iman and Hillary's engagement shoot at the Sanborn Science and Nature Center was just as fun and gorgeous as I knew it would be. Why? When you mix the beautiful Santa Cruz mountains with an adorable couple good things are bound to happen

I liked Iman and Hillary from the first 5 minutes...particularly because they so adamantly articulated that they absoltuely do not photograph well. They wanted to make sure I knew that they were very very uncomfortable in front of the camera and completely unphotogenic....want to know the truth? Those are my FAVORITE kinds of people to photograph :)

did someone say unphotogenic?

nice try guys. I'm calling your bluff.

And we had a BLAST! We were cracking up. These two were completely natural and sweet in front of the camera. We just took in the beautiful day and I shot them as they chilled together on cobble stone paths and redwood stumps. Iman told jokes while Hillary giggled her adorable little smile away. Easy peezy.

By the end of the shoot they were pro's. I could have shot them all day. This is why I always always insist on doing an engagement shoot-because it builds TRUST. Come wedding day this couple will KNOW me. I'm not just some stranger to them. I know how they work best and they know how to work with me. This is a recipe for effortless, natural and gorgeous wedding photos.

I've built my business around couples like Iman and Hillary-people who don't like to get their picture taken...people...like me :) But what I believe is that every photo should be a joyful experience and when the chemistry is right between photographer and subject-beautiful, effortless and sensational joy pour into the camera.

Danny+Renee are getting married!!!

2010-09-16T18:54:00.000-07:00

Just this past weekend I was asked to shoot a very special engagement dinner in Atherton, California designed by the always incredible SarahSofia.

Blooms, who we worked with previously here supplied the insanely gorgeous center pieces...

while Componere Fine Catering created some truly edible masterpieces to the delight of Renee, Danny and their guests.

Alexander Koutsoyannis' company GrooveTronix Productions supplied the perfect background music to this special evening.

This intimate dinner party was both jovial and heartfelt with plenty of laughter to coincide with the incredible ambiance. I don't know how you celebrated after you got engaged but I know I went out for pizza. Somehow I missed the memo on this tradition! But when you're talking about an event thrown by Sarah and Carmen, you just know it's going to be pure luxury. Remember Samira's GORGEOUS raj tented birthday party? Um, yeah, these ladies know their stuff :)

To Renee and Danny-congratulations on your new life together here in California!!!

Mackenzie Grace-Sneak Peek

2010-09-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

It's always nice to shoot friends (with my camera of course!) The Dunn's are some of our very closest friends here in California. Naturally we had a blast doing their holiday shoot! I'm processing it this morning over my "naturally decaffeinated english breakfast tea" (yes, I'm off of coffee-one month and counting! I'll update that later!)

Only the luckiest of women get to go to work and stare at this little darling all day!

my daughter Bella infiltrated the shoot of course. Mac was all too happy to have her join in the fun!

And by the way, if you're looking to book a family shoot for the holidays please please please do NOT wait! We have extremely limited availability this year as we will be doing some extensive traveling over the holidays! Knock out your shoot now before it gets too cold or busy!!!

Sarah Lucas Design photoshoot at the Rosewood Sand Hill Hotel

2010-09-13T12:43:00.000-07:00

As always, it was a true pleasure working with Sarah Lucas Designs at the fabulous Rosewood Sand Hill Hotel photographing her fabulous work. She teamed up with Nicole Hitchcock and her company Blooms.

Check out some of these gorgeous creations!! Looking for a sensational design for your big day? This is the woman for you! A-m-a-z-i-n-g

Camille+Joe Santa Clara and Hakone Garden Engagement Photography

2010-09-08T11:38:00.000-07:00

It is a very special privilege when a friend and fellow wedding vendor wants YOU to photograph their wedding day. Camille is a fabulous makeup artist who I have worked with on many of my shoots. I was delighted when she and Joe announced their engagement and immediately envisioned a shoot that captured their light hearted spirit, deep mutual devotion, and oh yeah, their love for biking :) And how stinking adorable are they?? GORGEOUS!!! Enjoy these highlights from their engagement shoot!!

Congratulations sweet friends!!

Attention Brides & Grooms!!

2010-09-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

Interested in having BellaLu Photography be a part of your wedding day? Let us know asap! Dates book quickly, especially during wedding season!

We want to make sure we are open and available to serve you and your love on your most important day!!

Megan+Brad Hakone Garden Wedding in Saratoga, California

2010-09-07T13:30:00.001-07:00

What a privilege it was to offer our wedding photography to Megan and Brad when they got married at Hakone Garden in the Saratoga mountains last month! I love all of my couples but this couple was truly sensational! Aside from the fact that they are a knock out couple they are the kindest people you'll ever meet. They were completely non-traditional & easy going.

I was in love with Megan's Asian inspired wedding shoes-fit PERFECTLY into the day.

Her coral was "something borrowed" from her mother-in-law when she was married! How sweet is that?!

Brad was calm, cool & collected of course hanging out around the grounds with his best man and taking a lesson from myself in proper boutonniere placement :)

Megan and her maid of honor got ready in the gorgeous open air yoga studio before the ceremony...

Small touches perfectly pulled in the natural beauty of the environment and the couple's style

not only was their friend their officiant, he also added beautiful music to the ceremony with other members of Brad's old band

What a beautiful day to be a part of! Congratulations Brad & Megan! Wishing you a life full of love!

CLICK! Camille & Joe's Santa Clara Engagement Session

2010-09-06T17:21:00.000-07:00

We had SO much fun shooting Camille and Joe's Engagement Session this weekend! We cracked up the whole time! Just wait until you see the full set but here's a teaser for you!!

Lisa+Mike-Apple Trees & Cherry Red Nail Polish...

2010-09-04T21:35:00.000-07:00

Today we shot Lisa and Mike's engagement session in Hillsborough, California on their gorgeous property! Here's a sneak peek but there will many more to come!!

San Jose Newborn Photography-Another Baby Boy!

2010-08-31T20:18:00.000-07:00

I shot another baby boy's newborn images in San Jose a few weeks ago and per the norm I fell in love with him. Sadly when I showed up at his home his mommy had to wake him from his deep slumber in his good ol' aquarium swing (I had the same one for my girls-bless the maker of that piece of sanity giving heaven)

After be woken up he was not a happy camper-and I don't blame him. But once he got his belly full he was ready for his close up! Here's a few sneak peek pics at his session!!!

Favorite Things Friday-New Babies-always a favorite thing

2010-08-27T13:57:00.000-07:00

I've been photographing Anne's family since long before they got pregnant with their second baby boy. You really couldn't meet nicer people I just adore them! I did Anne's maternity shoot a while back and she went into labor just a few days after!! Here's a sneak peek at their new sweet baby boy! Isn't he an angel?

I love watching infants interacting with their mamas-there's just nothing more soothing than their voice to their little loves...

LOOK! He even smiled for his family shot at just weeks old! CUTE!!!!

Camille's Quinceañera-A Party fit for a rock star

2010-08-27T12:53:00.000-07:00

I don't know what you did for your 15th birthday but if it was anything like mine, Camille's Quinceañera put it to shame!

Camille's family spared no expense at this gorgeous event that took place at the Saint Claire Hotel in San Jose. We were thrilled to be working once again with the fabulous David Ethridge & AVR Films as well as Edgar Martinez who created a STUNNING ballroom courtesy of his company Flowers by Edgar.

This was an absolute JOY! From the custom fairy center pieces to the late night pizza and punch buffet-this was a birthday party fit for a rockstar. Camille looking gorgeous in her glitzy gown and had a blast dancing the night away to a top notch mariachi band followed by an amazing d.j. Loved every second! Enjoy the sneak peek!

Grow Your Soul Thursday-way too young....

2010-08-12T09:22:00.001-07:00

My day is very full but it is Thursday and I want to at least share a link with you...

from her mommy:

"For those of you that don't know, my daughter , Kelly has been diagnosed with a very rare cancer and it is in her skull. It is called Chondrosarcoma. It is one of the most difficult surgeries to get to the tumor. She has double vision and ...headaches. The risks during and after surgery are too high. Kelly was referred for proton beam radiation to stop the tumor. Though there are side effects they are less The cost of treatment ...is approximately 50K. Plus housing for 2 months.Treatments are 5 days a week for 8 weeks. Kelly was working 3 jobs at the time and was not able to get insurance because she was not given 32 hours or more at any one job. Then the double vision and the tumor was found. As my cousin told me. Cancer waits for no one. We need to get her to treatment. We are exhausting all avenues believe me!

Tickets are limited to 500 God Willing!

Kauai Ohana (John,Nadine, Denise and Family) are putting on this event. There will be a Luau, Hawaiian Band and Hula....please let me know if you are going to make it...Trust Fund info to follow...donations are very much appreciated...If you'd like to provide a service for a raffle or a gift thank you! you can call me at 408 310-2309 for more info...Tickets will be approximately 25.00 and children 6-12 are $12.00 . I will let you know any updates"

here's the site

http://web.me.com/laurenerobbins/The_Kelly_Bennett_Benefit/Welcome.html

and the facebook event page:

http://www.facebook.com/lindseyfreitas#!/event.php?eid=142042392486825

(pppllleeaassseee share it-it takes literally a half a second to press share-seriously bay area folks ...what else are you doing on facebook today of equal importance?)

I don't know this young lady or her family but I saw the link on a friend's facebook page. If I could be there I absolutely would. Hopefully you can! As with many of you I know we have been in seasons in our lives where we didn't have health coverage be it from graduating college or not working enough hours to qualify. God forbid you get a diagnosis like this at one of those times...

If you cannot attend-that's okay! Just share her event link anyway on facebook or through your blog! Thank you SO MUCH!!

Favorite Things Friday- lockets & lionhearts

2010-08-06T08:25:00.000-07:00

2 Favorite things:

1. one word: ETSY.

oh my lord it owns me. If you haven't been there I highly suggest taking a peek around (particularly if you like really awesome crafty things)

my newest favorite Etsy thing?

my new vintage locket from
Pinking Edge Designs
:)

I love lockets. Why? Probably because it involves keeping pictures on me at all times. I threw a little pic of my hubby and I temporarily but there will be 2 special ones very soon I hope....

2. Ferraby Lionheart
I know I know, I've highlighted him before but he's family so I reserve the right to highlight him just once more :)

My husband and I got to see him in San Fran a few days ago-SO good.

He kicked off his new tour for the new album that just came out (I highlighted it previously but just in case you forgot):

And his new video just came out! WOOHOO!! Check it out-I think it's totally fun and quirky just as I would have expected.

here's some fun press:

Entertainment Weekly: http://music-mix.ew.com/2010/08/02/rainn-wilson-ferraby-lionheart-harry-bess/

SPIN: http://www.spin.com/articles/ferraby-lionheart-talks-upcoming-rainn-wilson-video

Sterogum: http://stereogum.com/457502/ferraby-lionheart-harry-bess-video-feat-rainn-wilson/video/

If you haven't picked up his album-PLEASE DO!!! Or check him out LIVE! Would I steer you wrong? NEVER!

waiting for baby....in the mountains :)

2010-08-05T21:43:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneek peak of a maternity shoot we did in the Saratoga Mountains last week.....

SUCH a sweet, laid back and beautiful couple!!!! That boy should be here any day now! :)

Grow Your Soul Thursday- I heart donkeys

2010-08-05T16:00:00.000-07:00

I'm back on task!!
(do you remember when your middle school teachers used to say, "stay on task!"? or maybe it was just me.....)

Allow me to introduce you to one of the coolest charities ever- the

Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue

check this out....

does that not absolutely break your heart? look at this poor thing's hooves and totally emaciated body. Absolutely terrible.

now check this out....

that's my uncle...Mark Myers and his pretty wifey Amy. What do they do every day? They save these poor animals. They are the founders of the Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue.

From their site directly...

From its modest roots as a backyard hobby, the Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue has grown into the largest in the country. We have rescued donkeys from dire situations in all corners of the United States.
Wild burros under threat of being shot and displaced by a loss of habitat are given a safe haven. Abused and neglected domestic donkeys that have lost their faith in humans are given a chance to heal, physically and emotionally.
Animals whose ailments exceed their financial worth are treated to allow them to live out their lives with dignity and without pain and misery.
At the Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue, we go beyond simply caring for our donkeys. We provide resources and training to donkey owners around the world. We hold clinics, seminars and perform fieldwork in areas otherwise neglected.
Our original mission was to provide a safe and loving environment for abused, neglected and unwanted donkeys. We now know that providing a sanctuary is not enough. We tirelessly work to educate the public about the nature, history and worth of these wonderful animals. In doing so, we improve the plight of the American donkey.

Pretty cool huh?

take a deep breath.............ahhhh...........I LOVE the smell of good people doing good things for this beautiful planet....even when it might possibly smell like a happy donkey :)

I love this so much because donkeys are just one of those animals we never really think about...you almost kind of laugh at the word. But for me, every time I interact with one I always think to myself, "you actually are pretty dang cute"

you cannot tell me those are not beautiful animals.

There are 2 things in this world that absolutely turn my stomach in a way nothing else can-child abuse and animal abuse. Oh man my blood boils just thinking about it. It's just something I can in no way, shape or form wrap my brain around. So whenever I find people fighting for those who have no voice I just am so humbled and grateful. It's easy to go about our lives in our little houses and cars and neighborhoods never really stopping to educate ourselves on the fact that there are some terrible terrible things being done in our own towns and states and we may not even know about it because we don't bother to look up from our facebook accounts and twitter updates (trust me, I struggle with it myself-that's why I started doing this thursday thingamajig)

If you remember a few days ago I posted a picture:

I was thrilled to receive the most adorable set of tickets! "Two Tickets to Paradise"!

like this:

is that not the cutest thing EVER? With my donation Amy and Mark can go out & get two more donkeys & take them back to their new home where they can live out their lives just as they deserve to.

Seriously guys, come on....this organization is awesome. HELP THEM HELP THESE ANIMALS!!! It's not just donkeys...if they go to a location to pick up abused donkeys and there are other neglected animals there they don't leave them either. Talk about charity.

From adopting a donkey itself to donating to the program in general there are lots of ways you can help!!! They are constantly running different rescue projects all over the nation. I encourage you to donate to help them & become a fan on facebook to spread the word. Even if you don't have the means to donate, becoming a fan and sharing links is a gift as well!!!

http://donkeyrescue.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=cms.home

And to complete this post in honor of the Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue....here is Bella...in her donkey shirt giving the thumbs up to Amy, Mark and the rest of the PVDR team!

Josh & Jennifer-Summer Love

2010-07-29T14:58:00.000-07:00

What a complete blast we had shooting the awesome wedding of Josh and Jennifer at the beautiful Eagle Ridge Golf Course in Gilroy, California! This wedding was a perfect mix of Jennifer's light, bubbly personality and Josh's sweet and yet totally cool spirit.

Jennifer's dress was SENSATIONAL!

Jennifer's dad brought his future son in law a pair of new socks before the ceremony just in case he got "cold feet"

hilarious

but he didn't need them

this bridal party was SO much fun to work with! They worked as the ultimate team and support system for Jennifer all day as well as making sure each other looked picture perfect!

and the groomsmen were pretty studdly too...they arrived in style with black glasses-I had to snag a shot

or two

ok now for real

check our their custom made shoes!! These were incredibly impressive.

Josh is a helicopter pilot and they found this PERFECT cake topper

When Jennifer got a glance of her dad while we were taking pictures she couldn't hide her emotion. It was very touching...

The ceremony was beautiful and sweet.

Not only were they married by a close family friend and pastor but Josh's dad got up and sang the couple a touching song-a beautiful moment...

There were one or two wet eyes during the ceremony...

or three...or four....maybe five...

but what else can you expect with such an adorable couple?

The reception was also both fun and completely touching with wonderful toasts and yummy food!

a touching first dance...

and tear jerking father daughter & mother son dance...

and after that? A big ol' party!

CONGRATULATIONS JOSH AND JENNIFER! Thank you so much for such an AMAZING day!!

Calling All Fiancés!!

2010-07-28T06:09:00.000-07:00

It's about that time again!

2010-07-28T05:05:00.000-07:00

We're taking a last minute trip to Los Angeles soon!! Snag your spot asap as we won't stay long!!

Amazing FILM photographer! If you're near him you must check this out!

2010-07-27T19:46:00.001-07:00

What's cuter than a toddler in a tie? Nothing.

2010-07-27T13:51:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peek at a family shoot we did a couple weeks ago! These folks are moving to Nashville soon! I'm not going to lie-I was jealous. VERY jealous.

But what's great is that I can continue to do their family portraits because I shoot in Nashville every year too!!! So to the wonderful Corby's-ENJOY MY HOME TOWN FOR ME! :)

Josiah & Amanda Sneak Peek

2010-07-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

Aside from the fact that these two people are totally adorable, they are also two of the kindest people I have ever met. I definitely got choked up a number of times at this wedding (what's new) but I couldn't help it! They did such an amazing job of honoring their friends and family and giving praise to God for their amazing love! Here's a little snapshot into their sweet sweet day!

Cool Cake

2010-07-26T11:33:00.000-07:00

Check this cake out!

The Bella in BellaLu had her birthday party yesterday! She's obsessed with Peter Pan so naturally I had to somehow find a Pan cake. Come to find out, they don't make Pan party supplies anymore!! My usual go to Sweet Tooth Confections was gone all week but I was saved by an amazing cake artist Jenny Falcouner who sometimes works with STC and is AMAZING! Look what she did

whoa.....

it was AWESOME!

ooohhh pretty! :)

2010-07-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

Check out this teaser from Luke Goodman-an amazing artist and wonderfully sweet man! I also had the pleasure of working with Jill Johnson Photography for this beautiful day!

Susan and Michael TEASER from Luke Goodman on Vimeo.

Are you a Tennessean who's ready for their close up? (or know someone who is??)

2010-07-23T11:42:00.000-07:00

Ta-Da!!!!!

2010-07-20T20:04:00.001-07:00

So the past few weeks I've been noticeably absent in my blogging-aside from being insanely busy with work and my husband and I renewing our vows (more about that to come) I've been trying to get some new things out the door....

So yes, we are so excited to announce the launch of our new bridal website!

http://bellaluphotography.com/weddings/

We have been in the process of transitioning our original BellaLu site back to Lifestyle specific photography (families, maternity etc) and preparing to launch an extension for weddings for a while now.

(cause it's kind of strange to enter a website and see a picture of a newborn next to a couple making out)

You can now access BOTH websites from the original BellaLu Photography main splash page at

www.bellaluphotography.com

or go straight to the Wedding site by enter

http://bellaluphotography.com/weddings/

Just click on Weddings on the main BellaLu site to be taken to the wedding site and Lifestyle to be taken to the lifestyle site

go figure :)

Keep in mind we are still experiencing some growing pains so bear with us but we would love for you to go check it out and tell us what you think!

Oh and did you notice our new logo? Nice eh?? But of COURSE we would never change our name...because what could be better than BellaLu?

Things are looking strange around here....

2010-07-01T07:19:00.000-07:00

Don't worry, you're not going crazy. (well maybe you are but that's your business)

We are doing some major renovations and have some fun new stuff to show you! So bear with us as we endure a few growing pains :)

random shot of the day....Jill Johnson & Mike Steelman workin' it at a wedding we shot together recently...oh to be an adored bride!

Jherek turns 3! (or 5-same difference)

2010-06-27T13:39:00.000-07:00

Remember a while back when I posted a little boy named Keon ? We did a Birthday Session for him.

This little guy

SO CUTE!

Well last week his big brother got his birthday pics! 3 years old!! We had so much fun playing in the dirt and climbing rocks-he had no clue he was even being photographed. Such a fun, silly and vivacious little man! And 200% boy!

Him and his brother are about the same ages as my two girls. I always love interacting with kiddos similar to mine-particularly boys. They were walking on rocks and had dirt all over their hands (and faces) and were just loving it. And of course their beautiful mommy fully supported it :)

"Jherek how old are you?"

(close enough...and I adore his dirty hand!)

Happy Birthday Jherek!!! I hope you never outgrow your curiosity and sweet spirit!! :)