Our love story…

Once upon a time, I (Alan) was a part-time ski instructor, artist, and photographer who somehow got lucky enough to meet the love of my life – a feisty redhead named Heidi who worked in advertising during the week and spent her weekends doing community theatre and riding horses.

After that, things moved fast – in the best way. Ten months after our first date, we were married at sunset overlooking Big Bear Lake. Since then, not much has changed. We still hold hands, dance in the grocery store like no one’s watching (they definitely are), and protect our weekly “date day” like it’s sacred, usually spent out in nature somewhere.

We’ve built a life around our two awesome sons and, honestly, way too many furry animals. We’re also proud geeks – give us superhero movies, a good classic TV binge, and we’re all in. It’s a little adventurous, a little chaotic, and very much us, and we wouldn’t have it any other way!

Our experience

So Alan here again… I’m a Southern California native, love grilled cheese sandwiches on sourdough (who doesn’t, right?) and my family, including the furry kids. Finding an excuse to go for a hike or a drive off-road is pretty easy. I wasn’t exactly born with a camera in my hand, but one appeared pretty soon afterwards. Starting as a high school yearbook & newspaper photographer, I’ve been blessed by being able to make a living by capturing amazing moments in people’s lives. Some of them have won awards, some just make people smile. I’m not just taking pictures, I’m telling your love story. You can also see my work at Love Story Photography

Hey, it’s Heidi… I also was born here in Southern California, although I lived all over the country growing up, and worked in Australia for a while. Fun fact – I’ve never met an animal I didn’t instantly love! I’ve been in theatre since I was 14 and have done voiceovers for radio and TV, in addition to being a professional writer. My wedding ceremonies range from romantic, spiritual, interfaith ceremonies, non-religious, vow renewals, and more. You can see more about me at LoveStoryVows.com.  I refuse to do a long and boring ceremony, I want to create a ceremony you both love!

Your dream team

A little about us as your elopement “dream team.”  Alan handles the photos,  Heidi’s the one with the words. Together, we’ve been part of hundreds of weddings and elopements, and somehow we still get excited every single time.

We care a lot about our couples and create a space where you can just be yourselves – comfortable, accepted, and maybe even having more fun than you expected. And yes, we’re proudly LGBTQIA+ friendly.

Our vibe? Think cool aunt and uncle, but with a camera and a ceremony script. We’re here to answer questions, toss out ideas, or just listen while you figure things out.

We know some incredible spots – coastlines, mountains, desert, and a few hidden gems we don’t shout about too loudly. Locally, from Sunset Cliffs to Palomar Mountain we’ve got favorite, semi-secret spots for your best day.

If your elopement dreams are more of the far-flung variety, we’re happy to guide you almost anywhere, from Joshua Tree National Park to Yosemite National Park. We’ll also help with the practical stuff, where to stay, what to wear, flowers, permits, even where to grab great comfort food after.

Your ceremony won’t be cookie-cutter either – it’ll be personal, relaxed, and actually have special touches to feel like you two. And because we work so closely together, everything flows. Just a really authentic experience, start to finish.

To find out more, text us or get in touch with our Contact form, we would love to meet you and tell your love story!