The Bienko Family

I had a wonderful Sunday afternoon with the Bienko family...

Living in the Vancouver area, we enjoy every last ounce that summer has left to offer us.  The Bienko family and I had an absolutely perfect September afternoon.  It was so great to catch up with an old friend and see her beautiful family.  Especially seeing as they had added a new addition since we last saw one another.  Their daughter was absolutely gorgeous.  Besides myself having some serious hair envy, their daughter Taitum was one of the most beautiful babies I had ever seen.  She was so sweet and such a delight to photograph.  I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Bienko family, catching up, sharing laughs and capturing the last leg of our incredible Vancouver summer.

Enjoy the captures!

Post Track: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUIElvJRyNU

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Sharmila & Trevor

I had an incredible time capturing the marriage of Sharmila and Trevor the other week, in the heart of downtown Vancouver.  This beautiful wedding took place upon a rooftop patio, that capture my favourite city, in all of its summer glory.  With a handful of clouds in the sky, their wedding had the perfect blank canvas to commence their new journey.  Sharmila looked stunning in her saree, palleted in a gold and pink, and Trevor looked equally dapper in his pressed suit.  It was a lovely ceremony to capture and witness.  It is always enjoyable and refreshing to be able to capture and take in a new cultural experience, especially with such a lovely couple.

I wish you both a lifetime of happiness!

Enjoy!

Post Track: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJ_1HMAGb4k

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The de Boer Family

I had the pleasure this past weekend to capture some family love with the de Boer family.  I spent the afternoon getting acquainted with Nicole, Andrew and their gorgeous baby boy Archer.  We wandered through UBC's Endownment Lands.  As we made our way through the different trails and lush greenery, we stopped every so often to snag a few shots.  Here are a few of my favourite results...

Enjoy!

Post Track: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23UkIkwy5ZM

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Wedding Decor at Villa Amato

Another stunning set up by Sweet Beginnings Vancouver.  A clean summer pallet of white and silver with peach accents make up this elegant wedding decor.  I always enjoy seeing the beautiful work that these talented ladies turn out.  If you are looking to create your dream wedding down to the last detail, then I highly recommend these ladies to make all of your wedding wants and needs come true.   Here area a few of my favourite shots...

Post Track: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwHACITShSI&feature=kp

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Stephanie & Ryan

I headed out to Harrison Hot Springs this past weekend to capture the beautiful wedding of Stephanie & Ryan.  

The back drop for their ceremony is one of the most incredible views I have had for a wedding location to date. The view was spectacular!  Both Ryan and Steph were so incredibly warm and inviting, they made you feel right at home.  Their friends and family were equally lovely and I couldn’t have enjoyed myself more.  Stephanie looked flawless in her 100 year old, family laced dress and Ryan looked equally dapper in his plaid vest & bow tie.  The unique fishing influence that made its way so tastefully into the details of the wedding, was my absolute favourite.  Other than those pesky mosquitos, the day and evening went along seamlessly.  The weather was perfect, the food was amazing and the dancing… well even I couldn’t resist busting a move.

Congratulations Steph & Ryan on your perfect summer wedding!

Post Track: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppC5bfJduhE

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Sharon & Sergio

I was lucky enough to attend two weddings this past weekend!  One of which was in Chilliwack, BC, set in the beautiful yard of Sergio & Sharon.

These are my favourite types of weddings; simple, intimate, casual and gorgeous!  Plus what more can you say about having such a knock-out-good-looking couple to photograph!  I loved all of their little western touches, including a family ride on their Horse, Macho.  The kids were too sweet for words.  They just loved being a part of the ceremony and were excited welcoming their new Step Dad, officially into the family.

A huge congratulations to Sharon, Sergio, Oliver & Charlie <3

Post Track: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssdgFoHLwnk

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The Pahl Family

I had a wonderful shoot this past weekend with the Pahl family...

I spent the afternoon with Scott, Lyndsy and their two stunning, blue eye’d little girls. Their eldest daughter Graesha is probably the most photogenic person I have ever encountered.  Neither I, nor my camera, could get enough of her beauty and radiant smile.  Little Lyla on the other hand, went to the beat of her own drum. Equally adorable with those incredible blue eyes and blonde locks, however Lyla wasn’t as interested in playing model and was much more excited about sticks and water bottles.  None the less, this beautiful family was sure able to produce some gorgeous photographs. Even Lyla was patient while we coaxed her into sitting for a photo, instead of exploring and chasing ducks.  Thank you Pahl family for the beautiful afternoon and all of the laughs.

Enjoy!

Post Track: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMtNyG5OPqM

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Brittney & Jeremy's Engagement

It's shoots like this that make me feel like I have the best job in the world...

How often do you meet new people and within an hour you make two new wonderful friends!  Well that was the case during my engagement session with Brittney & Jeremy.  These two were so much fun not only to photograph, but even just to be around.  We had a fantastic time sipping wine, roasting mallows and making smores.  I am absolutely thrilled that I was asked to be their photographer for their wedding this September.  I look forward to seeing them both decked out to the nines and busting some moves on the dance floor.

Congratulations on your engagement Brittney & Jeremy!!

Post Track: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pB-5XG-DbAA

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Sunshine Island with Elaine Lil'Bit Shepherd & Paka Music

I don't know what's better...  Being able to reunite with a friend that you've lost touch with after 10 years, or finding out that they have been so incredibly successful in following their passion.  Well I would have to say both!  Not to mention having your own personal concert on the beach.  I was asked by Juno winner & recording artist, Elaine Lil'Bit Shepherd to capture some photos of her for a promo-shoot to launch her new song, dropping this August.

The first time that I heard Elaine sing, we were both competing against each other in RichCity Idol's singing competition.  I knew the second that I heard her voice fill the room, that it was game over for me.  Now, her amazing voice can be heard all over the world!  Let's also not forget the extremely talented Lance Panerio of Paka Music, giving up some smooth vocals that will also be featured in the August single.

Here are some of my favourite shots from our sunset shoot...


Post Track:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xp1UltbdKsI&feature=youtu.be

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Jenn & Derek's Secret Wedding

After spending an evening with Jenn and Derek to capture their engagement, I was so excited to be a part of their special day...

The day before these two were set to exchange their vows on a beautiful beach in Cabo, they decided to get things sorted out on this side of the border first.  To make it official, Jenn and Derek had a mini ceremony outside of a little chapel in Richmond, while their two best friends gave witness to the magical evening.  Ask dusk set in and a spectacular sunset started to take place,  I was able to capture their love radiating much like the rays of light through the trees.

Here are a few shots that I wanted to share.  Enjoy!!

Blog post song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJ_1HMAGb4k

engagement post: http://jennicahookstraphoto.blogspot.ca/2013/10/jenn-dereks-engagement.html

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Amelia & Quoc's Wedding Reception

It was a beautiful September evening where friends and family gathered in the Nguyen's backyard to celebrate the marriage of two special souls who have committed to sharing a life together.

Quoc and I have been friends for over 8 years, 5 of which were spent being roommates and band members.  I was elated to see my friend with a woman who truly makes him happy, challenges him and has also become my friend.  Amelia looked incredible.  There is not really any other word to use to describe her.  Her cheeks were glowing from smiling and her dress was absolutely gorgeous.  Quoc also cleaned up quite nicely in his handsome pinstriped suit.  It was a great day to share laughs, eat amazing Vietnamese cuisine and clink glasses of tasty wine and spirits.

The backyard decor was simply stunning with strung globe lights, bird cages and lace upon lace.  Everything looked elegant and beautiful.  The cake table was probably my favourite.  It was an array of incredible homemade cakes, cookies, cupcakes and decadent delights.  I'm not usually one for desserts but I really have a hard time saying no to cheesecake...

All in all it was a beautiful evening.  I was able to catch up with many old friends and some extended family members whom I hadn't seen in far too long.  I love these two and I can't wait to watch their family blossom and grow.

Best wishes to my dear friends Amelia and Quoc.  xo

Post Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LfNVfiqKBeM

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Spaghetti and a Meat Ball

I don't usually do posts of this nature but these photos were just too good to not share!

I was invited over to my friends Jaclyn & Chris' place for a barbecue last Friday.  I spent a majority of the evening playing around with their two adorable kids Audrey & Liam.  I had brought my camera along incase there was an opportunity to snap some fun photos of the kids.  Little did I know that Audrey eating spaghetti would provide me with gut splitting laughter and these awesome photos...

Please enjoy!!


Song post: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i0jLgf8rK4c

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The Suzick Family Part II

I was asked by the Suzick family to capture some fun photos of them all together again.  This time it was with their newest family member, their pug/chihuahua cross, Ricky.  I had a great time shooting with these guys the first time around,  and was looking forward to doing another shoot!

We met at Gary Point Park in Steveston, B.C.  It was a very bright, hot and sunny day.  A perfect day to play on the beach with the boys.  Their two boys came out looking very sharp with their matching mohawks and plaid shirts.  Jackson (the youngest) held my hand as we made our way to the first location.  This happened multiple times through the shoot and it made my heart melt.  

I absolutely adore this family and had a wonderful time capturing their love and incredible family dynamic.  

Thanks Suzick family for a wonderful day at the beach!

Enjoy some of the photos from our shoot...

Post song choice: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1dFjloBZYo

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