Surprise Proposal in Los Olivos, CA | Sean and Gianna

When Sean called us to let us know he was planning to propose to his girlfriend, Gianna we couldn't be more excited to hear about his idea! When we showed him a few locations, he was so excited he wanted to go up and scout the area out. 

His general plan was to propose at a location that was pretty private as him and his girlfriend are pretty low key. Then we were planning on going into town in Los Olivos where the rest of their friends and family were waiting to celebrate the news!

After securing the location for him, we headed up and stealthily waited for him and Gianna to arrive. Usually I like to "hide" so I don't spoil the surprise, but I stepped out of my hiding spot and Gianna actually saw me! I was freaking out as I thought I ruined it for Sean! But she thought I worked at the vineyard and it didn't phase her that someone else was there! Whew!

When the time came, Sean did his part and the rest is history! As you can tell, Gianna was pretty excited and after taking some portraits around the area, we told them we were leaving and would be in touch. Since Gianna didn't know the rest of their families were waiting for them, she had no clue we actually left to go to the second winery to photograph the second surprise with their family! 

We couldn't be happier for them as their friends and family were so excited for them as emotions were running high both before and after the surprise! 

We're so excited to show you a few photos and we encourage you to show them some love in the comments below!

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Sean + Gianna's Slideshow

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Simplicity Can Be Fulfilling

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by everything going on around you? Are you worried what people will think about you if you make the wrong move?

It's so easy to get inundated by daily life, Facebook posts, or which direction to go.

We can easily get caught up in trying to have everything perfect and have "the need" to make sure we look good so we don't get "judged" by others. 

But if you think about it, most people want to make sure they are looking good in everyone else's eyes and are not worried about you as much as you are.

This post is for those of you who are trying to figure it out; whatever it is. Wedding planning, meeting your next deadline, figuring out what dinner plans will be...

Keep it simple and do what feels right to you. Be true to your beliefs and what is important to you. Don't allow yourself to get caught up in the frenetic energy that can easily surround you. Take a moment to get grounded; and don't be afraid to be proud of your decision. 

Here's a little formula I teach Jade and Jarron when they get caught up. Close your eyes. Breathe. Focus on what's important. Live. Be Happy.

I don't have all of the answers. But hopefully these tips can allow your life to be fulfilled with what's important to you. These are the tips that have helped me get past self-doubt and press the gas on the path and ideals that I believe in. Hopefully these can help you and give you the push to reach your goals, even if it's just trying to figure out where to go for lunch!

If you have the courage, in the comments below, please share your tips on simplifying your life to help you move in the direction you're trying to go.

Much love, 

Wedding Photography Inspiration at Stolpman Villa | Los Olivos, CA

Last week we had the pleasure of going up to Los Olivos and shoot an editorial wedding at the private estate and vineyard, right in the heart of Los Olivos: Stolpman Villa, Villa Angeli

The pleasure was ours as every detail was definitely not overlooked by one of the best event planners and designers, Rani Hoover and the beauty of the vineyards fit perfectly into the day.   

Check out the images and let us know if you're going up to the Santa Ynez Valley! We'll find a way to tag along!! Haha! 

Venue: Stolpman Vineyard, Villa Angeli

Event Planning and Design:  Rani Hoover, Inspired Weddings & Events

Gowns: JLM Couture

Cake: The Butter End

Hair & Makeup: TEAM Hair and Makeup

Event Rentals: Town and Country Event Rentals

Linens: La Tavola Linen

Florals: Renae's Bouquet

**As always, click on any image to view the full size!**