I met Ashley and Bradley about a year ago. They told me they were planning a beach wedding in Santa Barbara. The two entrepreneurs live in the Twin Cities area and own one of the coolest doughnut shops around, Sssdude-Nutz in Dinkytown (one of the University of Minnesota’s student neighborhoods).

(You should definitely check them out… http://www.sssdude-nutz.com/ )

Growing up Bradley would frequent Santa Barbara often because his family resides just a few hours south. They decided those particular California beaches would serve as the perfect backdrop for their special day. Ashley’s family lives in Minnesota, so it was a more intimate celebration with only their closest friends and family. They rented out a stunning mansion in the hills of Santa Barbara with their bridal party and spent the night before the wedding enjoying each others company in the giant space.

On Friday, I arrived in SB only to find out that it had been raining the past few days, and it didn’t plan on stopping any time soon. I was pretty bummed and a bit nervous. I had never shot a beach wedding. Now, my first one ever, and the forecast was all thunderstorms. But I woke up the morning of the wedding, and miraculously, the rain gods were on my side! It ended up drizzling off and on all day, which was ideal because I love shooting in cloudy weather. Plus, a little rain is good luck on your wedding day, right?

It was definitely a crazy day trying to get everyone organized, but Ashley and Bradley remained calm and were such troopers the entire day. I was completely amazed. They trusted me with their day and we got some incredible photos. I can’t wait to share them with you! 

Venue // The Cabrillo Pavillion