I love the feel of the sun on my skin.  It instantly calms me.  So I’ve been celebrating each day this week as the sun makes her glorious appearance.  It was a perfect evening for an engagement session as Laura, Ron and I headed out.  Nearly 83 degrees, we all agreed that a refreshing, cool cocktail would likely be the best way to begin our session.  (I love these two immensely…)  Entering The Brotherhood –a perfect little hideaway: cool, dark and sexy. Grey Goose martinis, tart olives and rum for Ron, done and done.  We then braced ourselves for the warmth and spent the rest of the evening smiling.  Who wouldn’t be smiling with friends who break out a bottle of Macallan 25 year old scotch… The glowing illumination of Glassy Babies and the outdoor fire place was as close to a perfect way to end and evening as it comes–thanks to Susan and Scott for their gracious hospitality.  I can’t wait to photograph their wedding celebration at the Olympia Golf & Country Club next month–it’s going to be all kinds of crazy, in the very best way : )  Cheers to you both!

Autumn in the northwest can be as close to perfect as it gets…when the weather cooperates.  For Missy and Matt’s wedding in early October, Alderbrook Resort in Union, Washington was utterly glorious.  Something the die hard Northwesterners don’t eagerly share with out of towners– needless to say, their California guests were loving every second of it–with group hikes and golfing excursions planned, along with lots of leisure time.  The pace of the day was unhurried, just how I like it. Plenty of time to capture the many details of their day.Matt’s childhood baby bonnet was tucked into Missy’s bouquet.  And the Rock of Gilbrater, a family heirloom, found it’s place around Missy’s neck after spending some time with Moet & Chandon…Missy’s Dad quickly teared up seeing her in the gown.
And family members were lovingly adorned with bursts of fall color.Everyone needed just a smidge of lips…And the nervous bride took a moment before heading out to the dock to see her groom.Just a tiny bit happy…And a tiny bit nervous…And then a LOT happier…Her God-daughter was the picture perfect flower girl.  Those curls could possibly be illegally adorable.And the groomsmen, well, they were ready with their “Fire Powah”A dash of Charlie’s Angels.
And how often do you have Secret Service men as your groom attendants?These tackle ball fans paid tribute with their cake.  USC and WSU colors fit perfectly with the fall theme.
And  an adorable harpist set the tone for cocktail hour by the water.The night wore on and true colors began to emerge…a sense of humor is an absolute necessity when entering marriage.  Can I get a HOLLA?  Congrats Missy and Matt–enjoy California but you’ll be back… : ) xox Cortney

Although I wouldn’t suggest wandering in any alley alone at night… especially in the fall, spider time. Bleh…

It’s amazing to me how many of my high school senior clients haven’t explored Olympia’s alleys.  There are some really great spaces down here.  I hope the City of Olympia is able to utilize them better–as pedestrian walkways, cafes, etc.    In the meantime, I will intrepidly traverse, clients in tow, seeking out the perfect photographic background.  I mean it’s seriously working…

Today’s senior portrait theme was “Young Women With Exceptionally Lovely Eyes” Clearly–as you can see from the following images. Thanks to Hadley and Jessica! You two are gorgeous!