Patrick Ranch, Durham CA, Wedding Photography: Eric+Elise Hansen

Wedding

Apr 29

Eric+Elise

This couple’s story started over ice cream at Jon and Bon’s in the summer of 2017. A first date that would change the trajectory of each other’s life. Elise and Eric hit it off pretty quickly and soon a flirtation became more and grew into love. Eric proposed to Elise in Hawaii while they were on vacation in 2020. They had shared a day of exploring the north shore of Oahu and returned to their hotel to relax when Eric decided to pop the question. Elise was surprised and said yes!

April 23rd, 2022

The week leading up to the wedding had been wet and raining. With a stroke of luck, the couple’s wedding day would be clear and beautiful. In the morning we met Elise and her bridesmaids at the Oxford Suites in Chico. They were all getting their hair and makeup done when we arrived, enjoying mimosas and listening to one of the coolest playlists. The playful music set the tone for the wedding day. Jena captured all the fun going on in the bridal suite while I focused my attention on all the beautiful details. I enjoyed capturing their stunning rose gold rings. I loved that their rings matched, it isn’t often that couples have rings of the same metal but this seemed so special. Elise wore earrings and a necklace from her grandma, she also carried a handkerchief from her Nana. While I was shooting the details I had the pleasure of meeting Elise’s Aunt Annie who was the Steam-stress extraordinaire! Elise’s wedding dress had tulle layers and Annie was determined to make sure they were wrinkle-free. Annie also pointed out the layer of blue tulle in the dress that would double as the “something blue” in the old tradition. The dress was so unique and lovely. Such a compliment to the beautiful bride. Once all the lady’s hair and makeup were complete we snapped a few photos of the girls before they all got into their dresses. Elise stepped into her dress and the whole room took a moment to admire her. Elise shared a first look with her dad where he rushed to her and complimented her beauty. It was such a sweet moment. Meanwhile, the rest of the room was all holding back tears. (I know I couldn’t have been the only one). Once everyone was dressed and ready to go the hotel shuttle took them over to Patrick Ranch. The venue is a beautiful grand farmhouse from 1877 that “has been restored to earlier times when it was at the peak of its grandeur, social activity and influence.” This lovely building was such a beautiful backdrop for the couple’s ceremony later that day.

When we arrived Eric was patiently waiting at the venue. We snuck Elise into the tank house for her to relax before their first look. Eric looked handsome in his light grey suit that was tailored perfectly for him. He wore a blush tie with intricate floral details and some special socks saying “Having a meltdown.” He was excited and ready for the first look. It was the perfect way to release the nerves and settle them both.

We had Eric stand in front of the barn doors with his back to the tank house. Elise walked down the stairs of the tank house and you could see her excitement from seeing her soon-to-be husband. Elise’s mom helped me un-bustle her gown and prepare her for the first look. Elise walked quickly toward Eric, she had no hesitation when tapping his shoulder for him to turn. He turned around quickly and was abundantly happy to see his gorgeous bride in front of him. At that moment their stress eased and their excitement took over. They could let go of the small stuff and enjoy their day together. We quickly did the bridal party photos before guests arrived and tucked the couple back out of sight.

Soon all of their guests would arrive and take their seats. The procession began and the chatter settled and everyone’s attention was now on the groom walking in with his aunt. Eric went to the top of the stairs to stand with the Officiant Daniel. As the groomsmen and bridesmaids made their way down the aisle they filled the steps leading the way to Eric. Soon the ring bearer and flower girls would make their entrance with a cuteness overload. Finally, Elise and her father would walk down the aisle, the crowd was quiet and you could feel the joy that surrounded the ceremony. Eric stepped down and helped his bride up the stairs being sure she didn’t step on her dress. While the ceremony was short it was full of heartfelt sentiment and a few giggles. It was perfection. They sealed the ceremony with a kiss and the whole crowd whooped and hollered in celebration.

The reception was romantically lit with a large “LOVE” sign by the dance floor. Chico Catering Company was busy bringing out their delicious buffet. Showcased front and center was a beautiful three-tiered cake created by Upper Crust. The tables were eloquently designed with lovely floral arrangements and vases with floating candles. The couple had “His & Hers” favorite candies as favors which was a sweet treat!

Elise’s dad kicked off the party by singing “Fly Me to the moon” to the couple. The night was full of scrumptious food, heartfelt toasts, great music, and some amazing dance moves. Elise’s grandma could sure cut a rug! We had such a blast watching everyone enjoy themselves and having a genuinely good time. Our Favorite moments of the night were during Love Shack and All the ACDC songs. We heard an awesome story about how “Highway to hell” by ACDC was the first song that Elise’s father had sung to her as a newborn.

When the night came to an end the couple had fiber optic wands for the send-off, it was such a neat idea in place of sparklers. Once the couple made it to the end of the line, the Hotel Diamond Rolls Royce was waiting to take them away. The couple drove off into the night to start their life as newlyweds!

We had such an incredible time capturing this wedding and meeting all of the family. We are honored to have been trusted to capture such a monumental event.

We wish you many years of happiness and grand adventures!