Erika and Shawn’s wedding at the Flying Flags Resort was truly a sight to behold.

I checked the forecast repeatedly leading up to Erika and Shawn’s wedding and every time the day called for rain.  Up until that point I had never photographed in the rain and while I felt up to the challenge the logistics of it all slightly frightened me.  While it certainly was raining throughout the day it couldn’t “rain” on Erika and Shawn’s day that is for sure.  Erika and Shawn were married at Flying Flags in Buellton California.

The venue was absolutely spectacular and really the perfect venue for rain.  With large overhangs over the venue we were able to diversify the shots for first look, family and bridal party photos and couple portraits all within a 300 ft. radius of each other.

   

Having a little bit of weather coupled with a perfectly designed venue made for amazing photos.

 

Shawn and Erika met on Match.com.  Which I find incredible, I love hearing about stories where the couples were unlikely to cross paths if it wasn’t for the invention of the internet.  Since Shawn was in the Air Force stationed at Vandenberg and Erika was a teacher out of San Luis Obispo this was very likely to have been the case.  Erika recalls that Shawn had originally messaged her, but she never responded because he didn’t have a picture. A few weeks later, Erika was ready to get rid of my subscription, but he sent her another message. This time he had pictures. A couple days after they had our first date at a restaurant in Pismo.

 

 

What I loved most about Erika’s and Shawn’s wedding was that it was truly a family affair.

Every family member played their role and participated in some way.  Erika’s Aunt who made the gorgeous floral arrangements and Erika’s Uncle who was the officiant of the ceremony.  Erika’s bridal party included her sisters and her niece as the bridesmaid. Even the donut table made by Fresh Donuts out of San Luis Obispo was a community effort, as they were provided for by one of Erika’s students family.

Erika’s wedding day details included her gorgeous dress from Davids Bridal, an invitation suite from Costco, and a beautiful fur shaw made specially for her by a family member.

 

It was a gorgeous affair with a perfect venue.  As I started the day being a bit nervous of the inclement weather, I ended the day being entirely grateful. Congratulations Erika and Shawn! I wish you both a lifetime of happiness!

 

Much Appreciation,

 

Lindsey