I enjoy this time of year because I know it means I get to photograph little Miss 'O' again. Her parents have been so great about us getting together every year to capture mostly Miss 'O', but the whole family as well. I think this is photo shoot number five in her short little 2 years.












Here is the link to last years session and at the bottom of that post you'll see links to the other sessions in case you'd like to see Miss 'O' as a baby.
http://karenard.com/blog/2011/10/agoura-family-portrait.html
This morning I headed out to a local estate sale. I'm always torn about going to these because I get an overwhelming sadness walking around the houses and looking through items that belonged to someone who has just recently past. But these same feelings make me happy that I can bring something into my home that was once used and cherished by another family. Something that once meant something to them, always finds a place in my heart and home. Our house isn't very big, so I try to limit myself to collecting items that I will actually use. (This can be hard when I have to turn an eye to a box of vintage mason jars because guess what? I already have 100!)

Is anyone going to any good yard/garage/estate sales this weekend? Let you know what you find. This is what came home with me today. (If you follow my blog you know I like vintage and you know I love to bake.)

Have a great weekend everyone!
http://karenard.com/blog/2011/09/estate-sale-finds.html
I think I've said this before, but I love hanging out with the kids whose Mitzvah's I will be photographing. During the portrait session, I have a great opportunity to get to know them better. I had poor Allison and her mom get up very early on a Sunday morning in order to beat all the tourists to Hollywood and Vine. Looking forward to your big event next summer Ally!












http://karenard.com/blog/2011/09/bat-mitzvah-portraits-hollywood.html
There is definitely something to be said for timing. Two people might be perfect for each other but the timing isn't always right. Especially when you are only in 7th grade. Yep, Terri and Dennis met in Junior High School. And that's where I know them from too. We all grew up together then went our separate ways into life and our futures.


Can you spot the something blue?














A few years ago, fate brought these two back together and what was meant to be finally took hold. They decided to elope and called me to document the afternoon and share a happy hour drink to celebrate.
This had to be one of the most wonderful weddings I've shot. Just two people in love, one sister, a close friend, and the officiant (who was a family friend as well. )


Can you spot the something blue?







We headed over to Ma'kai for sushi and Margaritas during happy hour. It was a perfect day.






Terri and Dennis, I am so thrilled for the two of you. Thank you for not only asking me to capture your wedding, but for including me in this very intimate, magical day.
Terri Villalobos Says:
Karen, thank you for your amazing eye and your amazing spirit and talent.
We love you.
Dennis Lee Says:
Thank you so much Karen for being there for our special day. You made it that much more special for us. Love D&T.
(09.27.11 - 03:34 PM)
Ken Says:
Looks like some magical moments captured beautifully!! Congratulations once again!!!!
(09.28.11 - 04:50 PM)
Paula Mehegan-Pailliotet Says:
Hey Karen! These are great pics. Terri just sent them to me. Congratulations! We should catch up.
(08.31.12 - 10:11 PM)
http://karenard.com/blog/2011/09/santa-monica-wedding.html
About a year and a half ago, I met two beautiful young women - sisters - at a wedding that I was photographing. Fast forward to earlier this year when they both contacted me to photograph their own weddings. You can imagine how this is keeping their families buzzing with excitement!













Nicole and John's wedding was first, on a hot summer day in Camarillo. Carrissa, whose wedding will be in January, gave such a beautiful Maid of Honor speech:
"Now you will feel no rain, for each of you will be the shelter for the other. Now you will feel no cold, for each of you will be warmth to the other. Now there will be no loneliness, for each of you will be the companion for the other. Now you are two persons, but there is only one life before you"













For more of their wedding, check out the slideshow below:
A few of the fine vendors:
Cake: A Gift of Taste
Florist: Passion Flowers
http://karenard.com/blog/2011/09/camarillo-wedding.html


