It’s hard to describe Tiffany and Ian’s portraits without reflecting on this entire year and how for most of us alive, there’s never quite been a time like this before. Tiffany and I met in a very human sort of way – she came to help out at a shoot as a family friend for a couple I’ve photographed for years – and I entered into the story of Tiffany and Ian’s engagement shortly after. Through the many, many, many times we’ve had to postpone and reschedule their wedding, these two have always remained extraordinarily gracious and thoughtful, always checking in with me and the happenings of my own life first when I know they are battling a million and one things on their own end.

On the weekend that was supposed to be their original wedding date, we met up in Big Sur and chased the setting sun and ever-present fog down scenic Highway 1. My good friend @marisaperel created the most beautiful bridal look and I was so happy to learn that Tiffany and Ian’s florals were designed by @thebloombarco, another close vendor friend connection. For a couple of hours, the world felt preciously connected again. There is pure joy in remembering what it’s like to live with the ocean by our side and the beauty of the world around us. The battle forward continues. I’ve never known a holiday season like this, one where I feel so alone and far away from those I love. But I have many, many moments from 2020 like this afternoon spent getting caught in the straggling bushes and laughing all the way through, and these golden days are the ones worth fighting for.

Photographed on @fujifilm_profilm with my #Contax645 and processed by @photovisionprints.

Photography: Cassie Valente | Film Lab: Photovision | Hair + Makeup: Marisa Perel | Floral Design: The Bloom Bar Co