Down the Aisle: Elinore + Patrick | Houston Wedding Photographer

A blend of cultures and the melding of two hearts with a history 15+ years in the making, Patrick and Elinore's wedding day was rich with tradition, yet full of surprises. When I arrived in Houston for the rehearsal, I was thrilled to find Elinore cheerfully waiting. She jumped up, threw her arms around me and gave me a hug that felt like I've known her for EVER (you know those kinds of hugs). She was every bit as awesome as I had expected and my dear friend Patrick was about to begin a new life with her... How wonderful!

I first met Patrick while on tour with Up With People in 1997.  Since then, we've crafted one of those friendships that isn't subject to things like time or distance. One of the things I've always enjoyed about him is his creative spirit and all the brilliant/fun/silly things that have come from it. Working in cinematography and feature films for several years, we also share a passion for visual arts. He understands imagery and its power to communicate and commemorate, so I was especially honored when he and Elinore chose to hire dear ol' moi for their wedding photography (no pressure, right?).

A couple of days before the wedding, my phone rang and Patrick's voice was on the other end. He had been looking over the schedule of events when it dawned on him that their unique plans didn't include any designated time for the couple's portrait session I always request. (!!!)

As someone who fully understands production and the work that goes into it, he realized that images take time to create and asked if we could shoot them after the reception. I responded with an enthusiastic "YES!" With a ceremony that began at 9:30am and a reception that was set to wrap by 3pm, a post-party shoot would be perfect. These are some of my faves.

The 'behind the scenes' story on this image makes me laugh. I'll spare you the details, but if you know Patrick and Elinore... ask them about it. :)

When I found out this car would be involved in our post-party portrait session, I was psyched!

We made our way to a downtown park where after charming a nearby police officer, we found parking and captured these gems. The image on the left was a test to see if my tilt-shift lens that had just been dropped (ahem! And landed on concrete!) was still in good shape. Thumbs up!

I **love** this. Elinore's blue shoes just barely peek out. So cute!

Classic bridal portrait.

love. this. one.

Ok. So now, back to the a.m. Here, Elinore chuckles when her phone reminds her that she has a wedding scheduled for this morning. :)

Elinore caught a sneak peek of Patrick and guests as they arrived...

It must be said, so I'm just going to say it here and now. Elinore has some amazing calves. Seriously!

Always a character.... Patrick has some fun in front of my lens...

A bonus of being hired to be part of this wedding was that I got to see another dear UWP friend of ours, Lucero. Here, her husband Alaster shuffles their son Alejandro out of the church to help ensure a quiet ceremony. :) I love this moment. They look like two peas in a pod.

I love the look on Patrick's face as Elinore and her father make their way down the aisle...

Filipino wedding ceremonies typically include what is  known as the tradition of the 'veil and cord.' The veil symbolizes the unity of the couple (they are 'clothed as one') while the cord represents the lifelong bond between them.

The reception at the Junior League of Houston, was simply gorgeous.

Upon walking into the room, one couldn't help but notice this incredible life-size dog sculpture at the table with the groom's cake. I wasn't surprised, as Patrick and his family are serious dog lovers. Wondering where they found such a thing, I was surprised (but not really) to find out that Patrick made it. Of course he did. Because he's brilliant like that. (For those who are interested, its construction includes papermache, chicken wire, construction foam, a taxidermist and... a blender.)

Having recently decided to make a career switch from the film industry to the medical field, it was quite fitting that the dog is taking a huge bite out of a cake that says 'organic chemistry' on it. Touché. (Look at the eyes... amazing!)

Elinore grabs a quick shot with her sisters. Too cute!

Ummmm.... hello chandeliers!

Back-up patrol. :)

Some more portraits we managed to sneak away to create....

A send-off in style!

CONGRATULATIONS and much love to you both! (Enjoy Hawaii!) (Special thanks to Kelly at EventologyWeddings for coordinating such a unique celebration!)