Ashley & Rick's Wedding | Calistoga Wedding Photography | Calistoga Wedding Photographer

When I left my home to photograph Ashley and Rick's wedding last Friday, it was a beautiful sunny day. So I wasn't quite sure what to make of the fact that, at the last minute, I'd checked the weather report and it said: thunderstorms. I grabbed a raincoat and was on my way. When I arrived, the wedding day was unfolding as usual, except for the storm clouds rapidly surging higher and higher. Ashley and Rick pressed ahead with their plans and were just about to do their first look when the room where Ashley was getting ready lit up with a bright white flash. Followed by a huge clap of thunder. Followed by buckets of rain. And then hail. Which meant: lots of elaborate plans down the drain. The great thing about an unexpected thunderstorm is that it makes what's really important stand out in stark relief. Ashley and Rick did their front look on a rain-drenched patio, using umbrellas. And it was gorgeous. They strolled along the rain-wet trails and gazed at one another in love and unfazed. The rainstorm changed the backdrops of the day a little bit, but could not touch its meaning and purpose. It was such a stellar day and I could not have been happier to have been a part of it. Here's a peek at the magic:

Congratulations Ashley and Rick and thanks so much for letting me be a part of your amazing day. It made me so happy, and I can't wait to share all of the beautiful photos with you!

Location: Calistoga Ranch Wedding Planner: Brandy Cabral, Bliss Event Productions Officiant: Rev. George L. McLaird Florals: Poppystone Design Cake: Sweet on Cake Hair and Makeup: It's a Date at the Powder Room Entertainment: DJ Jeremy Productions Rentals: Hartmann Rental Studio