Last week, I posted about photographing close friends. It’s a whole different beast. The editing is no different. Editing is not usually my most favorite of activities 😉 however editing when you know almost everyone in the photos is actually quite enjoyable. But it becomes hard selecting blog images because you get emotionally attached to the moment, or the person, rather than focusing purely on finding the best images to tell the story of the day, and showing off your best work. Anyway, I want to let the the photos do the talking for the most part so I’ll keep this short. I joined the girls as they were beginning hair and makeup at Mike and Beth’s home in Seattle. I was very pleased to see Beth’s tea length dress and fabulous shoes:

Bernie, Mike and Beth’s lab mix, is basically my second son. Bernie and Porter have spent a lot of time together and still seem to really miss each other. Fellow dog-lovers will no doubt understand the significance of the next few photos … I love how Bernie gazes at Beth as she has her hair done … and how she touches him gently on the head as he stands before her:

Beth’s mom, Karen, was on an emotional roller-coaster all day – perfect! I hope she doesn’t hate me for posting these … but I love the emotion here.

Beth made all the hair accessories for her and her bridesmaids. I love the peacock feathers, and the teal of the shoes to contrast with the main accent color, red.

Some more favorites – Beth helping her sister Kate with her makeup, then working on her own:

After a sweet first look in the front yard, we gathered up the guys and girls and headed over to Discovery Park, one of Mike and Beth’s favorite places. We started with couples portarits and detail shots:

… then added in the bridal party. These guys scrub up well!

The weather had turned to full-on miserable by this point, but I begged Mike and Beth to let me take a few final shots down by the lighthouse. They were absolutely freezing, but I promised them it would be worth it.

We headed over to Ballard for coffee and pastries at the Dutch Bike Co. I loved this space! It is so very Seattle – a mixed purpose coffee shop and bike store, in a mixed purpose building. All with gorgeous exposed brick and huge windows. Hurray!

Courtney Kroymann, of Designs by Courtney, did a phenomenal job with the bouquets. I especially love the trailing flower ribbon on Beth’s bouquet. I’ve never seen anything quite like this before. I’m a fan!

I’m not sure why, but I love this next photo.

Part two – the gorgeous ceremony and reception at Ray’s Boathouse, all expertly coordinated by our good friend Stacey Jehlik of Breath … Savor the Day – will be along in a few days. 🙂 If you’ve enjoyed this post, please come over and check out my Facebook page … If you’re a newly engaged couple wanting some kick-ass wedding and engagement photos, view my portfolio here; if you’re more interested in kids and pets, click here; and of course you can always contact me here!