Stephen and Kristen is the definition of making a relationship work over any distance. Over 8 years ago, Kristen unexpectedly met Stephen during his birthday celebration in Las Vegas. Where many would consider anyone you meet in that scene, a mere-less fling, it became the greatest birthday gift of all for Stephen!! From then, they would spend months flying back and forth to see each other between San Diego and the Bay Area. It wasn’t long until their relationship became a flight calendar where they would look forward to meeting each other in other cities. When Stephen finally popped the question to Kristen at the iconic hearts in SF, they finally joined forces in San Diego!

I actually had the opportunity of photographing this adorable couple together in 2013 when they won a Valentine Contest I used to host. (I’ll post some at the end of this post!) All their friends and family gathered and campaign for them to win so its pretty clear how much everyone loves them! Being their wedding photographer will be an honor and I can’t be more excited!

We chose Glamis Sand Dunes for their engagement session location! At first, we were challenged by the start of ATV season! But Stephen and Kristen were troopers and we all hiked far into the unspoiled lands across the street. We literally walked into a painting and I was having the best time playing with the compositions as the light slowly changed. Behold, we were blessed with the most beautiful cotton candy sunset that glowed over the sand. It’s any photographer’s dream situation and I’m happy to have shared the moment with Kristen and Stephen!