Ali & Dave’s Sonoma wedding weekend was one of the most special weddings of my whole entire wedding photography career. Dave’s entire family was unable to attend the wedding because they were in lockdown in Australia, so all of their guests ended up being just Ali’s family and their closest friends. A day before their wedding, Dave’s best man (and little brother) was able to fly in and surprise him under very special circumstances. He hit his fifth year of being cancer free after he was given five years to live. Well, this year was his fifth, he beat his prognosis which is the only reason he was eligible to travel to the US per a special written request from his oncologist. He secretly flew all the way from Australia only two days prior to be able to make it to his brother's big day. Needless to say, this was the best surprise ever, but it doesn’t stop there. As everyone is seated for dinner, a surprise video begins playing on the big screen and speakers nearby, and it’s Dave’s parents sharing a blessing and the sweetest words to Dave and Ali on their special day — from 10,000 miles away. I watched the energy among everyone shift to this synchronicity of tears everywhere. I’ve never seen so much happy crying in my life.

This day as a whole was truly profound. I just remember thinking to myself, ‘I think this has to be the most love I’ve ever felt at a wedding before’. I’m not bluffing when I say there was something in the energy that evening. One of the most exceptional weddings I’ve ever had the pleasure of photographing. This was one of those weddings where you feel reminded of your purpose—shining through your entire body. Thank you Ali & Dave for allowing me in and bringing your story to life.