While in Miami for the Target event at Hispanicize, Julia wanted to collaborate on her concept of a shoot she calls “Colors of Miami.” She writes so beautifully so this blog post is her words to my photography.

Conceptualized, styled and written by Julia of Serindiptious Events by Julia
Photography: Dana Grant
Hair and Makeup: Courtney Eads of Courtney K. Designs.

Lance and Racquel
In an instant Dana saw the backdrop of this 1950’s ish diner. Once Lance appeared in the doorway with that smile and Racquel lit up with excitement for her faux love, the symbiosis began. Youth, beauty, innocence and the arrival of instant attraction came to fruition when these two came together to create our military couple. There is such vivaciousness in two individuals that had never met each other, and such a sweet chemistry. It isn’t a challenge to create an evoking photograph when the souls create laughter, protection, excitement and break down the barriers that often prevent us from our greatest experiences. These two brought smiles to everyone’s face. They brought back those memories of what it felt like to see someone that you feel a lure towards.

Conceptualized, styled and written by Julia of Serindiptious Events by Julia
Photography: Dana Grant
Hair and Makeup: Courtney Eads of Courtney K. Designs.

Colors of Miami
What a beautiful, vibrant colorful place the city of Miami is. The city is painted in so many great colors and it has such a great feeling of an old world along with a new one. South Beach is a great extension of these colors, but not just the literal ones, the people are what really add the richness to this city. Traveling to a new place and discovering the people. People have so much more depth than the surface of their life. We are all multiple colors and hues. Here are some who really make up the color, spirit, depth, character and soul of this city. One of the greatest quotes written by Edgar Allan Poe, “ Beauty of whatever kind, in its true development invariably excites the sensitive soul to tears.” We found a few beauties and their truth within their beauty.

The Kent Hotel, South Beach Miami

Racquel
Our first model of the day and the ray of pure light that we needed just before the storm (literally)….Such a love light held under the most gorgeous mane of curls, Racquel is a natural in front of the lens and in front of any backdrop. Racquel is a fashion designer and understands the body as well as the form. She is a native Californian who has brought the West Coast Sun to the fiery South Beach. Racquel is on an adventure in life to bring her dream to a reality and what a gift to us that we got to be part of it. Sweet and sexy is her appeal, yet she has an edge that will surely bring success in all forms to her life. She was gracious enough to model one of her very own designs that is perfect for her silhouette. She has a colorful soul that has a touch of shyness, but when cozy with a room filled of beautiful men, she speaks her mind.

More of these at the end…

Courtney has been doing everyone’s hair and makeup since she was in Junior High School and additionally expressing herself through dance. Truly and artist and a creator in her fingertips as well as in her heart, she becomes a butterfly when she is allowed freedom of expression. This gorgeous woman also doubled as our makeup artist and model. Courtney is also defining of the color of South Beach although she was only here for a mere 2 days. Courtney was a natural pick to be a part of this grouping because of those eyes, those lips, and that smile but moreover, her ability to consistently see the beauty in others. She is an angel that is guiding and loving. She is the love connection between many and to think she is only in her early 20’s.. The world is about to discover Courtney Eads of Courtney K. Designs.


Lance
It is quite a miraculous thing when people come in to our lives for one reason or another, even if we do not know immediately why. Lance is one of those people. As an Army Reserve, Lance could give the appearance of a tough guy, but beyond this armor is a sweet, sensitive loving man with an inner light that shines as bright as his smile. He blushed when asked to be in a photo shoot. He blushed when told he was handsome and had a ridiculously great smile. He was more than willing to be a part of our “Colors of Miami” Shoot. He was early, and attentive but in the most serene way. . His passion lies where people are the most vulnerable: love. Lighting didn’t need to be optimal for us to see how his entire face ignites when he smiles. Like looking into the eyes of one of the most caring human beings; Lance is a man dedicated to harmony, peace and love.



Melissa
A true, pure beautiful person. Whether the color of her hair, eyes or skin, she is captivating through and through. There is the most loving, kind person that radiates from Melissa.. A photograph of her was so desirable. She is embedded in our hearts no matter how far away we are, but to capture her love light on film was a necessity. She is Honduran originally from New Jersey and now resides in Florida. She is stunning in any color, and has a heart of gold as you can see in her smile that arises from her eyes. The turquoise in Miami is so enriching and defining of South Beach and of the liveliness of the people. Melissa is perfect to set against this color and Oh My goodness she looked as if the photo was meant to happen. Gorgeous… just gorgeous.. Melissa is one of the huge inspirations behind the “Colors of Miami” shoot ..




Kevin A. Walton
Even a poet could struggle with the words to describe a modern day philosopher that exists only in our history books. He is a like a carved statue in France; truly a work of art to admire. Coincidently he takes care of his body and soul like a diligent serving being. I suppose it is only natural to sit and stare, but knowing that the beauty in this man comes from his birth, his connection with life, his belief’s, his faith and connection to others, stare all you will, he is more than a captivating icon. He celebrates his life journey and tells it willingly. He could write a book similar to a guide to living the best life ever. He walks into a room almost oblivious that he is being stared at by every female. He speaks to everyone with the same loving, inspirational and guiding soul. There is music in his step, poetry in his heart and on his lips, epitomizing togetherness, oneness, connection, more than anything LOVE and TRUTH.



K DUB The Truth.

Angelica and Kayson
Mama and baby boy photos are always so heartwarming. Angelica has such a huge and loving heart for her sweet and very silly little Kayson. After listening to her speak about him, we had to meet this cutie. He says “Mami is petie”.. pretty in 2 year old speech, and puts his little hand on her face.. Angelica is a natural beauty with as much beauty within. She is young, hardworking and such a loving Mom and sister. Angelica has a fire that comes out like light from her eyes. Her voice is soothing and brings warmth to the heart. She also has a wonderful sense of humor that resides like a playful child behind her eyes. That is what is so special about her relationship with Kayson. You can tell that Angelica and Kayson understand each other well just by the interaction in the photos.


More Racquel. We didn’t plan on shooting her in this outfit, but it was so fun not to!


Courtney

Thank you all so much for being part of this shoot!

It was such a great experience to be around such beautiful, warm, friendly people including several Latin celebrities. Miami Beach is gorgeous and so are all the people within. (Stay tuned for a shoot up next on the blog with some of those beautiful people.) I love Miami!

The seriously beautiful Target Lounge by Phil Colon. This was designed for the Hispananicize attendees to come hang out, listen to the headphones, play on the iPads, charge phones, eat snacks provided by Target and socialize.

This was my official Target badge.

Everyone wanted a picture by the amazing Target wall.

Gaby Natale of SuperLatina.

Emilo Esefan, promoting Monster headphones, sold exclusively at Target.

Target’s poolside party at the Eden Roc Renaissance, Miami Beach.

Lots of film crews, photographers, news crews doing interviews.

DJ Africa.

Target surprised everyone by having these synchronized swimmers come out during the party.

Hola Martin with the swimmers.

Happy Hour at the Target Lounge: DJ, dancing, wine and snacks! Fun was had by all.

Ceremony at St Edwards Catholic Church in Corona
Recetpion at McCoy Equestrian Center in Chino Hills

Thank you so much Cristina + Richardo for making us feel like family!

The got married in St Edwards Catholic Church

Reception at McCoy Equestrian Center

Adorable Mexican themed table decor.

Love me some good Marachi band and Mexican food.

So, if you’re like me and want the best gift to give your mom and/or family, I have a few spots left for the marathon sessions on May 4. Hope to see you!

1. Go to Miami for 8 days
2. Shoot an event for Target, as in Target

It was for an event called Hipanicize which brings brands, media, marketers, celebrities, filmmakers, innovators and bloggers together in a unique creative environment focused on ideas and best practices.

What I shot was the amazing Target Lounge, complete with high quality headphones from Emilio Estefan + Monster.

Here’s a couple of details shots. Can’t wait to show you the rest!

Ceremony: San Antonio Heights Church
Reception: Upland Hills Country Club

I don’t know if I’ve ever seen a more excited bride! So happy and photogenic.


First look. Valerie is too cute!


Even though Jason is a little more reserved, he couldn’t hide his excitement either!

Valerie’s twin, Jessica who was also one of my brides is a witness. It’s so sweet how close they are.

See this featured: Green Wedding Shoes and on West Elm.

Feast your eyes on this gorgeous West Elm setup by Christy at One Handspun day. Christy is one talented lady and also one of my sweet brides!

West Elm is giving away some of these paper flowers to a Green Weddings Shoes reader, so make sure to leave a comment here for your chance to win.

We just did the Vintage Glam Bridal Show, the same one we did last year with an even bigger turnout. It was so nice getting to meet so many wonderful brides and vendors. Here are a few shots of our booth.

Video interviews of the vendors.

Close up of our set up.


Practically my whole house on display!

A favorite from the Oz shoot.

I’ve wanted to do a shoot inspired by the Wizard of Oz for so long, since it’s my favorite movie OF ALL TIME. Since Oz The Great and Powerful was coming out, it seemed like the perfect time to make this shoot happen. I really wanted to stay true to the essence of the story, which has a lot of meaning for me. I see myself in Dorothy: going on adventures to search for something, finding best friends along the way, defeating inner demons until finally realizing you have everything within you. And it’s been there all along. You’re brave, strong and there’s nothing else you could possibly want because you have everything. Once you realize you don’t need a Love, that’s when you find it…

What if Dorothy and OZ fell in love?….(Scroll down to read the story)

Dorothy leaves her Kansas house in her classic dress.

She carries with her a basket filled with darling cookies that represent her best friends: Lion, Tinman and Scarecrow along with her poppy and wheat bouquet.

Oz waits for Dorothy in his vintage suit complete with an ascot and hot air ballon boutonniere.

The artful invitation and welcome table.

Meanwhile in Oz…Munchkins!

Glinda the Good Witch and Dorothy’s dear friend.

Toto!!! Toto’s bowtie.

Dorothy and Oz follow the yellow brick road to their yellow brick alter where they tie the knot under a green curtain arbor. They have a small, intimate ceremony in land of Oz. Glinda, the munchkins and Toto are their witnesses.

They have so much fun with their friends (and Toto too!)

Dorothy and Oz have a day filled with magic and love.

Details. Thoughtful touches of their styles.

Oz and Kansas inspired cake.

Their table. A whimsical and elegant combination of the couple..

The night starts with Dorothy changing into a gorgeous emerald gown with sparkly emerald shoes.

They feed each other a cookie and live happily ever after!

A gorgeous yellow bouquet.

I can’t thank all these wonderful, talented people enough!!
Designer of Dorothy’s, Glinda’s and flower girl dresses, also custom ruby red slippers, green heels and green converse: Evey Rothstein Clothing
Hair and Makeup: Melody Rachunok
Owen and Levi Rachunok as Munchkins and cousin Lily Bos as flower girl munchkin
Table decor: Serendipitous Events by Julia
Invitation: Christy Schurle, One handspun Day
Hot air ballon boutonniere/red sparkle bow tie/green backdrop, Emilee Hegg: Tasteful Tatters
Glinda Model:Maile Roseland,
Alexandria and Spencer Phillips, Dorothy/Oz models, Oz’s vintage suit, ascot, vintage rings: PhillipsandCoVintage
Toto Doggy model (Dorothy Mantooth) and Dorothy’s bouquet and Glinda’s vintage crown from France: Rebecca Stringham
Cookies: Linzy Kearby, Parchment Cookies
Cake: Cakes and Catering by Karie
Yellow bouquet/flower girl flowers: Florist Rose Safran>