I'm a family and wedding photographer in Pleasanton, California. I serve couples and families of all backgrounds across the SF Bay Area. 

Meet Charlie Dawn

Small Wedding at Secret Garden Ceremonies in Santa Cruz Mountains

Weddings

Angela and Mike, a couple hailing from the East Coast, embarked on a unique West Coast adventure to tie the knot. They chose a picturesque spot nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains: Secret Garden Ceremonies.

But before their wedding, a few days prior, they decided to capture the essence of their love with an engagement photo session at the beach. You can check out their enchanting engagement photos here!

Angela and Mike had a clear vision for their Santa Cruz mountain wedding day: simplicity and a focus on celebrating their marriage. Their hearts were set on their love and family. Throughout the day, the warmth and kindness of Angela and Mike’s family touched everyone, especially their photographer. There’s something truly heartwarming about a mother asking if you need anything or a cousin inquiring about the photos. It makes you feel like part of the family, and that’s when the best photos happen.

The couple began their day by getting ready at separate locations. Then, they reunited at the stunning Secret Garden Ceremonies venue. Here, they decided to have a first look and capture some lovely portraits before the ceremony commenced.

The ceremony was a sweet affair, filled with endearing moments and stories of how Angela and Mike first met and got engaged. After they exchanged vows, they joined their family on the front lawn for a delightful cocktail hour, complete with games, drinks, and cherished memories.

The day concluded in the enchanting Redwood grove, where they captured beautiful photos of the couple. These moments were captured before the guests arrived for the rest of the reception.

Mike and Angela, thank you for choosing us to document your wedding day! We had a fantastic time with you both and feel so privileged to have captured the beginning of your lifelong journey together.

Enjoy the Gallery of this Santa Cruz Mountain Wedding

The bride and groom getting ready before the first look in black and white.
The happy couple's first look at Secret Garden Ceremonies.
A playful moment between the bride and groom.
Angela and Mike share a tender moment on the front lawn.
Angela and Mike share a tender moment on the front lawn.
The bride and groom as they walk down the isle.
The newlyweds exchange vows with their friends and family under the redwoods.
Angela and Mike exchange vows under the towering redwoods.
The bride and groom's joyful embrace after the ceremony.
Angela and Mike's beautiful charcuterie board and decorations.
The newlyweds celebrate with family on the lush lawn.
Angela and Mike's loving gaze during their wedding portraits.
The newlyweds celebrate with family on the lush lawn.
The couple poses amidst the majestic Redwood trees.
A heartwarming candid shot of Angela and Mike's kiss.
Angela and Mike stand hand in hand through the Redwood grove.

Looking for a Wedding Photographer?

Hi, I’m Shannon and I love weddings. From the small to the big ones, I love seeing how people celebrate their marriage. I’m always booking weddings, reach out to me today to book!

Wedding days end, newborns become toddlers, and parents become grandparents. These moments go by so fast. You deserve to live fully in them,  to be present, and then relive them through imagery that tells your story. Photography is more than just a picture, it’s a way to document your history. These are the good old days. Let me help you remember them.

photos that live up to the

memories

I believe every story deserves to be seen, felt & remembered.

Bruce Gilden

"I love the people I photograph. I mean, they're my friends. I've never met most of them or I don't know them at all, yet through my images I live with them."

Words I Live by

Let's Connect

Photographer, dog mom, book hoarder, and Trader Joe’s loyalist. I’m a Pisces, an ENFJ, and an Enneagram 3, which basically means I feel everything, care deeply, and always have a running to-do list (with color coding).

These days, I’m also figuring out life as a new mom — balancing baby snuggles with camera gear and reminding myself to slow down and soak it all in. I’ve built a career out of noticing the details, chasing the light, and turning everyday moments into art.

Wanna know more about the girl behind the photos (and the caffeine habit)?

Then let's connect! 

I'm Shannon.

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