Even though we are getting married back at home, it was important for us to have a little touch of California in our wedding. We have started a life out here, adopted a dog here, were engaged here – and it seemed only right that we gave it a little of the recognition it deserved.

I did a few hours of research (mainly using the suggested vendors from theknot.com) to find the perfect photographer and finally decided on hiring the adorable Jordana from Hazelnut Photography. We liked her work for so many reasons, but all of her pictures picked up on lots of natural light, didn’t include too many kitschy props, and she fit the budget. She had a great spot in mind to serve as a our backdrop and so off we went to  El Matador Beach in Malibu, California on one windy, Saturday afternoon.

I had spent weeks picking out my outfits, trying to brighten my teeth, and making all of the necessary beauty appointments. It gave me a glimpse of how crazy I am going to be when my actual wedding gets closer, but the anticipation of the whole event was so fun.

When “the” Saturday got here, I took a long run in the morning to clear my nerves, and had a few mimosa’s while we got ready so that I didn’t feel like an enormous dweeb during the photoshoot.

It took me about 15 minutes to loosen up with a camera in front of my face, but Jordana was patient and kind — and two and a half hours later, she had collected enough pictures and we were on a merry way.

I haven’t gotten the disk of the 800 pictures that she took just yet, but I thought you may enjoy seeing a sneak preview of some of the goods…

Diane Von Furstenberg dress, Tory Burch Shoes, Tiffany Co. & David Yurman jewels

Banana Republic wrap sweater, Gap tee, Paige Jeans, Tory Burch sandals, David Yurman jewels

Pretty fancy, huh?!