Photographing weddings allows me to be more than a witness of events. It’s a privileged position being an intimate participant (albeit on the sideline) of emotional and personal moments. When I photograph weddings I get in close to, and actually look for, the moments of subtle and overt displays of emotion between bride and groom, their parents, friends and family. When I photograph those fleeting moments—when Dad wipes away his tear, or mom smiles with all her heart–I feel that I captured something of depth and beauty.
Lenore and Bruce’s wedding was held at the very elegant historic Jefferson Street Mansion in Benicia, CA. The Mansion venue is perfect for weddings; the 1861-era mansion house itself is used for getting ready/pre-ceremony photography; the ceremony and after shots are held in the garden and the reception is housed in a large tented area.
Bruce and Lenore are a very sweet couple who value love and family. Their wedding was definitely a coming together of two families and merging of communities. Throughout the day all I heard was laughter (some tears) and words of praise for Bruce, Lenore and their families. 
In the morning before we arrived, the skies let loose and rained buckets. I wondered if the plans for a garden wedding would have to be switched to the tent. Fortunately, the clouds dissipated so that we had perfect light from soft-lit sky.
Here are some getting ready photos. Lenore looked so relaxed and elegant for her bridal portraits in the romantic master bedroom.
While Lenore, her bridesmaids and mothers got ready out of view of her groom, the men were nervously wandering around the downstairs rooms. It was really special witnessing Lenore get dressed with her mom and sisters lending a hand with buttoning her gown, putting on her veil and putting on her jewels. 
Some details of ring, flowers and interesting decor in the mansion (I just couldn’t help myself getting a few shots of all the do-dads.)
Meanwhile, Bruce was calm (ha!) waiting with his buddies to become a married man.
Bruce escorts his beloved grandmother down the aisle. You can feel their excitement.
The moment arrives when the bride reveals herself and is greeted by her father for the walk down the aisle.
I almost lost it when I saw Bruce’s tears as he saw Lenore walking down the aisle.
More tears and laughter during the numerous toasts…Little brothers share secrets!
Venue: Jefferson Street Mansion
DJ: DJ Magic Brandon Enriquez
