These two have become very close to my family, much like an aunt and uncle to our son, Justin. Their wedding day was an epic one filled with such love, laughter and tears. They took part in two very intimate tea ceremonies in the presence of their closest family members — I felt very humbled to be present. Then we partied into the night at the Bellevue Hyatt.

Holly is a photographer here in Seattle whom I had the pleasure of first meeting at the We Heart Sharlane benefit for Sharlane Chase, a local photographer who had been diagnosed with cancer. I put up a portrait session for the silent auction at the benefit, and Holly was sweet enough to bid and win the session. I just recently learned that Holly is herself a cancer survivor. It was humbling to be able to tell a small part of their story through these images.

(My main criteria for a dream home: a lakeside weeping willow tree in the back yard.)

Kirsten and Brian are as sweet as they come. They have a little pup, Kooshy, who is the cutest. I led them through Carkeek Park as they explored and played with one another.

Had the pleasure of second shooting again for my good friend, Kevin Wrenn.

Bren is a gifted double bassist with refined musical taste, as evidenced by the jazz band featuring Seattle jazz legend Clarence Acox on drums. Their rendition of Etta James’ ‘At Last’ gave me chills in the middle of the reception. Shortly after this wedding, Clarence led the Garfield High Jazz Ensemble to first place at New York’s Essentially Ellington National Jazz Band Competition and Festival at NYC’s Lincoln Center.

MJ + Kevin knew within a few hours of meeting one another that they would be married someday. A whirlwind love story at its very best.

Thanks to Des for organizing and providing the props; James for the ride and being an upstanding gentleman; and, of course, Fae, for being gorgeous and fun and willing.

I don’t see why mothers-to-be should fly solo at a maternity portrait session. Let’s get the father-to-be in there too.

You might recognize Sarah and Kisung. They were one of my lovely 2009 couples, and I’m so thrilled that they will be giving birth to their first child, Lani, next month.

At my last photography workshop a few weeks back, we were graced with this effervescent duo, Yuki and Larissa. We spent the afternoon with an intimate student group at Seward Park, just a stone’s throw away from my studio in Columbia City. We had a great time laughing and lighting these two up, though I have to say, it didn’t take much at all.

Very sweet 2010 couple. Every time we meet them, we have to pry Justin away from them when its time to go. They are going to be amazing parents.