Red is the color of LOVE in downtown Scottsdale

It was an early, early morning on a Saturday that I met with Steve and Lani at the Civic Center in Scottsdale. Our shoot started while it was a near 35 degrees outside--looking back, I think it must have been one of the coldest days in December so far. However, quite literally, I think Steve and Lani provided the warmth. These two are such a special couple. Simply put: their chemistry, interactions and the love that they have for one another inspire me. Lani and Steve are naturals in front of the camera--despite what they may say--and their friendship, passion and laughter toward each other is clearly evident in all they do, and I find it awe-inspiring. Truly, a match made in heaven.

After we got past our sniffles and red noses from the biting morning cold, the sun did provide us with a ray of hope that warmer temps were on the way.... and from there we went at it!

A note: I met Lani ten years ago at school in junior high. Her quick whit, intelligence and fantastic personality make her one-of-a-kind woman; she always had me laughing. This time around, it was so neat to see the same qualities reflected in her while I shot. It's no wonder that she met and pulled in such a great guy who compliments and reflects all of these same qualities. Steve and Lani are two lights on their own, but when they're together such as on Saturday, their chemistry makes magic. As I said earlier, they're naturals in front of the camera for this type of work I do. I hardly did any directing for these shoots--it's really all them!

Congrats to you both, Lani and Steve. See you in May!

"And the greatest of these is Love."

Truly, two souls began a new chapter on November 14 as Bekah and Nate joined their hearts and hands in a memorable and most holy matrimony at Love of Christ Lutheran Church in Mesa, Arizona. I felt such a presence, such a warmth from the hearts of the guests as Nate and Bekah exchanged vows in front of their loved ones. Beautiful Bekah--as such is her nature as I've grown to learn--laughed and lit up the church with Nate by her side, who blushed and smiled throughout the ceremony. The ceremony reflected the finest qualities of this charming couple: humor, lightness, spirituality, and authenticity - and not without a dash of pizazz! Another memorable touch was that Nate's father was the presiding pastor and officiant of the ceremony.

Afterward, the bride, groom and myself dashed over to the Mesa Arts Center to do a post-wedding session (where I did their engagement session four months prior). What a blast! The rain held off, and after a tiring 1.5 hours we hauled ourselves over to the most tasteful part of the day's festivities: the Cheesecake Factory!

Blessings to you, Bekah and Nate. It's been a pleasure beyond all measure to work with you. Your love for one another is a spark in your hearts that's evident in all you do. My best to you as you begin your new lives together! ~ Christine

Faces that I forgot!

Showing some fresh faces from the fun times at Tempe's Octoberfest, a month ago last week! A special shout-out goes to Mr. Jason Owens (top picture, top row with the hat on!) for his total awesomeness at hollering at me to capture the good cheer had by all, which is totally evident above! Just look at how cute my newest ASU fraternity friends are- totally scrumptious! Oh, how I miss college...

Also another shout-out to my mom (also shown above, bottom row on left) who ditched her elegant wine-drinking ways and bought herself (and enjoyed) a Stella Artois. Way to go, mom! Fun times.... can't wait 'til next year! Cheers!

Welcome in the Royalty!

Oh what a JOY it was to photograph newborn Baby Kingston (now doesn't that sound so..... Royal??). He was just a week old when I went over to see him! His pink, tender skin was still getting used to his new world, and his eyes were keenly watching me as I clicked the camera's shutter-- he was so intrigued with the look and sound of the camera. And let's put in a note for Allison, his mother-- doesn't she look like a beautifully glowing new mother?! Also pictured about is big brother Xander and daddy Anthony. Welcome, Kingston!

Phoenix Zags Alumni BBQ, Fall 2009!!

A few weekends back the Gonzaga University Phoenix Alumni Chapter (woot woot!) held a barbeque at a great outdoor park setting in Phoenix. We endured the heat and sweated bullets; the food was great, the company was even better, and we got fired up for the ZAGS game on December 2nd. A great time was had by all! What a gift and a blessing to be a part of this community--a worldwide community sharing a unique bond of spirit, sports and fun! GO ZAGS!!!