Nikki & Ray, an Inspiration Shoot

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Nikki is energy, frenetic, fervent, kinetic.  Dynamic and always on the move, Nikki pushes and pulls with the force of a creator, a prankster, someone unafraid to pull at the seams of life.  She brought that energy to our inspiration shoot, along with her good friend (and quite the cutie) Ray, to play the role of her man.  Her and Ray had that flirtatiousness about that that envelopes the freshly engaged.  They passed longing looks beneath batty lashes, along with the coquettish teases of those on the edge of romance.  Nikki was the consummate actress, all charm with that gaze and her ruddy glow, and the occasional accompaniment of a soft kiss.

Above all, I find Nikki to be a source of inspiration on each and every shoot we’ve had, and also in life.

Thank you, for being my friend.

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April and Eiman, a Luxe Persian Wedding

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April and Eiman had the casual ease of life-long friends, and they treated everyone with that same disarming warmth.  We had such a good time shooting the stunning April (there’s a tomboy hidden under that feathered dress!) and the charming and romantic rascal, Eiman.  Both inclined to play the gracious host, we were touched it seemed they genuinely wanted us to be a part of their celebration.  It could be daunting to cover 400 merry guests, but this welcome extended throughout the wedding as we were constantly given way to get closer and better shots, invited to eat, drink and dance (only one of which we participated in, liberally).  Each and every guest was not only glamorous, matching the lavishness of the reception, but incredibly elegant and polite, matching the classiness of their hosts.  Catered by Eiman’s legendary father, the food was unparalleled, made with the same loving care and attention as one would expect from an intimate family gathering.

We are so far blessed with a fantastic wedding season.  To have worked with such accommodating and hospitable people, from the bride and groom to the vendors, is one reason we love the work we do.  April and Eiman, a toast to you and your exciting future together!

 This fantastic wedding came together with the hard work of all these vendors:

Venue: Westin LAX

Planner: Beverly Harris Weddings & Events http://beverlyharrisweddings.com

Bridal Gown: Penache Bridal Salon Beverly Hills http://www.panachebridalbeverlyhills.com/

Shoes: Jimmy Choo

Videography: Eric Films http://blog.ericfilm.com/

Catering: Shekarchi http://www.shekarchirestaurant.com

Sofreh: Afsneh Sargordian

Rentals: Mellanie Party Design http://mellaniedesign.com/

Lighting: OCAVS Lighting http://ocavs.com

Performers: Andy & Shani http://andymusic.com/

Florist: Tinaflowers  tinaflowers.com

Cake: Pastries by Edie http://www.pastriesbyedieinc.com/

A Night for Kenya

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Every now and then, you meet people who are so charged with positive energy, you know they are going to change the world.  Shannon Fernando, who is one of the most vibrant and dedicated people we know, is one such person, and the founder of the Alabaster Mobile Clinic.  The clinic is comprised of a voluntary medical and civilian staff who have devoted themselves to helping impoverished communities of Africa and South Asia by providing basic health care, and perhaps even more importantly, health education.

We had the pleasure of covering their first ever fundraiser dubbed “A Night for Kenya,” where a few hundred people gathered to watch talented performances, donate money by silent auction, and to gain a little insight into what the Alabaster Mobile Clinic does.  Poignant and heartfelt, the event truly captured the spirit of the clinic, highlighting the need for small, effective organizations like this that can harness the support of one community at a time to deliver resources to unreached communities in developing nations.  We are truly honored and happy to have participated in the first of hopefully many events by the Alabaster Mobile Clinic.  Shannon, we can’t wait to hear the stories you’ll have to share upon your return from Kenya!

Shannon Fernando gives a heartfelt speech about why she started the Alabaster Mobile Clinic.

The Alabaster Mobile Clinic is traveling to Kenya’s Maasailand this July 30th to August 11th!  We wish you luck!

For further information about this amazing organization, please visit:

http://www.alabastermc.org/