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Happy Birthday to Me!

Today I turn 36. Yikes did I just say that and release how old I really am. Like the saying goes the 30′s are the new 20′s. (I am trying to convince myself that’s true!)  A little over two weeks ago I had an amazing trip with my husband to Big Sur to shoot an awesome wedding. We kept driving by this field and on our way home I said, “Babe, I want pictures here!”  He looked at me like really you never take pictures! Yes I am a photographer and am afraid of the camera go figure! So really fast he made a U-turn and here is a sample of me facing my fears and trying new things!

So in thought to this post I really wanted to share 36 facts about me, I feel a little conceited saying that. (lol)

Here it goes:

1. Family is always first, I wouldn’t be who I am without them! LOVE!

2. My favorite color is Pink.

3. I laugh at myself and ramble up a storm.

4. I have 2 left feet, but I love to dance my heart out!

5. Chocolate I can never get enough of, preferably dark.

6. Seeing older people holding hands always makes me cry, it shows how strong love can endure.

7. I believe in everything happens for a reason.

8. I play the piano by ear.

9. I am a hugger, but will shake hands first.

10. Amazon is my best friend and my husbands worst enemy.

11. Pandora and I rock out while I edit.

12. I make the best salsa in the world, I really should bottle that up!

13. When I see a penny on heads I will carry it all day long, especially on a wedding day, if I see it on tales I will flip it over so the next time someone walks by they will have a great day.

14. I care more than I should sometimes, peoples feelings become mine, that’s just the way I am.

15. MAC makeup cannot live without it!

16. Hate to exercise but am trying.

17. Reality shows suck me in.

18. Yes I am a cryer at the movies, always carry a tissue.

19. I adore chick flicks I can watch the Proposal, the Notebook, Ever After, Bridal Wars, Pretty in Pink, Sweet Home Alabama, Something Borrowed and the list can go on and on.

20. I drop my kids off to school in my pajamas. (I do stay in the car, no need to embarrass them.)

21. My escape is being a photographer. I don’t know how to explain the feeling of passion I have for shooting weddings.

22. When I was in high school I was voted best personality.

23. Love fashion even though I am not that fashionable. I love when I get to help in putting outfits together.

24. One of my favorite parts of shooting a wedding is the moments between father and daughter. I miss my dad everyday since he’s been gone.

25. My friends are family to me, I love them and all their support.

26. Blogging is really not my thing, but I know I have to lol!

27. I love all sorts of music and I tell my husband I can sing just like them.

18. The feeling of sand between my toes and waves crashing against the rocks is one thing I love, but don’t have much time to do.

19. Speaking of time, I always feel our days should be 36 hours instead of 24. We could get more done.

20. Really loving the new style of vintage and ruffles.

21. Never wear dresses, but just bought one the other day.

22. My favorite holiday is Christmas.

23. I am giving even when I cannot give.

24. My dream trip is to go to Italy, I am hoping it will be for a wedding!

25. Always have to convince myself to be positive, but am real when things get to gritty.

26. I am a great listener, but may not always give the best advice.

27. I am also a talker, I can talk to anyone!

28. Pinkberries is amazing!

29. I’ve twisted my ankles three times, I am a clutz.

30. Shopping makes everything all better!

31. Disneyland is my happy place, I love watching my kids smiles and running around! Favorite ride Space Mountain of course!

32. W magazine is the best! I get most of my inspiration from.

33. I love the movies, but is hard to avoid the popcorn.

34. Determination, I am self taught in all that I’ve done. No matter  how difficult the situation I will figure it out.

35. I can’t get enough of the kids all climbing on the bed and tell me all that’s going on.

36. Last one, I can’t thank everyone that I have crossed paths with for making my 36 years. I feel so loved, inspired, and ambitious. My dreams keep going, my heart still loves, and my ear is still hear to listen. Thank you all!

xoxo

Rita

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June 10, 2011 - 9:43 am

sandy - you are one of the most beautiful women i am blessed to know.. inside and out.. you are amazing.
xoxox happy birthday xoxox

June 10, 2011 - 10:17 am

Alicia - Happy Birthday to mi sistafriend!! You are always there to listen to my frustrations and discouragements we face working in this industry. I love being your sidekick at your weddings…eventhough you want to tazer me sometimes..haha…aw you know I make you laugh with my comments on wedding days! You truly have given me the power of confidence. I thank you for sharing all you learn and you do it unconditionally. You are a sweet, wonderful sistafriend whom I love very much. We have had many great unforgettable adventures with our cameras…although Nikon is better….lol I look forward to many more in the years to come!!! Feliz Cumpleaños!!!

June 10, 2011 - 10:56 am

Brandy - Wow Rita…that just made my mascara run (should of bought some MAC kind huh!?!) So blessed to have you as a part of our Family. Love you forever Sis! Xoxox

June 10, 2011 - 11:54 am

Kimberly Bayer - Happy birthday Rita! You are an amazing and inspiring woman and I didn’t realize how much we had in common until I read your 30 things, it’s crazy. Hope to see you soon! Miss you! xoxo

June 11, 2011 - 10:53 am

Marcella - What a great post and way to celebrate you and your specialness! Sending you good wishes for many more blessings! You and your photos are beautiful!

June 16, 2011 - 12:01 am

faith Cherisse - Love it Rita! Hope you had a Fabulous Birthday!

September 9, 2011 - 11:54 am

Sarah - Happy, happy birthday!!! You are an amazing woman and I hope you had an amazing day!!! :)

Heather + Geno: Malibu Engagement

Heather and Geno are incredible, I couldn’t be more happier to have met them both at one of the weddings I shot in New York. During our time in New York I remember Heather talking about how much she loved Geno and couldn’t wait for the day he would propose. She knew it would happen and hoped for the perfect moment. Heather and Geno you are truly amazing and so much fun, our day together was such a blast I know the wedding day is going to be fabulous!

xoxo

Rita   

The proposal told by Heather,

   Geno and I had been shopping for rings and talking about getting married for a couple of months. He finallytold me he was going to have a ring made that matched the wedding ring that his mom gave us. So, I sort of had an idea when the ring would be ready–about 3 weeks….so I waited patiently. It was on a Thursday when he came home from work. I was in the kitchen cooking dinner and helping Ryan (my son)  with homework so I was pretty busy running around. Geno came into the kitchen, grabbed my hand and turned me around. When I turned around he was on his knee and my heart started beating really fast and he said “I just wanted you to know what an amazing mom you are.” And then he got up and started laughing. I, of course, hit him because he was teasing me and trying to trick me. The next morning which was my birthday, we were lying in bed snuggling and talking. We talked about the day ahead and the plans we had for my birthday dinner. I started talking about taking our puppy to the dog groomer (he seriously needed a haircut) and Geno said “Maybe you should wear this when you go.” He took my hand and slid the most beautiful ring onto my finger. He asked me to marry him and I said “Oh my God, are you serious?! Yes!” LOL That makes me laugh now, because of course he was serious. I started crying and we called Ryan into the room to tell him the news. He was so excited too. That night we went out with our friends for what was originally my birthday dinner, but turned out to be an engagement dinner too. :) It was perfect. Simple and very us.undefinedundefinedundefined undefinedundefinedundefinedundefined

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June 2, 2011 - 9:13 am

Kelli - Just Beautiful! Another great shoot!!

June 2, 2011 - 3:43 pm

Harmony Loves - amazing photographs! I love the colors and light! Amazzzzing job Rita!

San Juan Capistrano Mission Engagement | Vic + Debbie

I’m a firm believer in people coming into our lives for a reason. Vic and Debbie are sincerely one of those couples. I can’t thank my newest friend Cristina from Unforgettable Events for referring me this beautiful couple. As you will read Debbie’s story of how their love began, she will talk about how Vic is a  DJ/Owner of Vision To Mission Entertainment. Hands down this wedding is going to be off-the hook, and cannot wait for the reception to P-A-R-T-Y! Their wedding will be this weekend as they enter this union together at Diamond Bar Center.

Their love story told by Debbie:

Victor and I have been planning to get married for quite some time now. Even though it was never official, our hearts knew it would happen.  Our journey began in 1994 inside a nightclub that Victor was the DJ at. Our eyes met across the room and immediate attraction took over. This attraction blossomed into love and ultimately turned us into one soul.  The venue where Victor said he would love to get married at was at Diamond Bar Center. When we called it  was 3 years booked in advance. We ended up putting our names on a waiting list hoping for a cancellation. It was a friday afternoon in October when we received the call, “THE VENUE HAD A CANCELATION AND A DATE HAD OPENED!”

To our surprise the date was only 5 months away.  This was all very unexpected but we both knew that we wanted this to happen more than ever. We began our planning and here we are 5 month later ready to begin our lives together as husband and wife. We always knew it would be us no matter what. He is definitely my soul mate as I am his.

You two are truly special and Harmony and I are so blessed to capture your love.

xoxo,

Rita

 

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March 17, 2011 - 7:59 pm

Christina Sanchez - How cute this couple is!! :) Adorable! Love the fountain photo! :)

March 17, 2011 - 8:47 pm

Sarah - I love looking at your photos. What a beautiful couple.

March 17, 2011 - 11:17 pm

Cristina - Love this Rita! So gorgeous!! And you are very welcome!! Couples are lucky to have you capture their day :)

The Secret Garden Inspired Shoot | Temecula Wedding Photographer

I remember watching and reading the book the secret garden when I was a kid. So when Heather from bows-n-berries contacted me about putting together a vintage inspired secret garden shoot, I couldn’t of felt more honored and excited. Heather’s vision was to showcase her hair pieces towards flower girls and since Heather has four beautiful girls, one precious boy, and one of her good friends little girl, why not?

Thank You Heather for asking me to be a part of this shoot and to showcase the beautiful pieces you make. Hands down you nailed every detail from the food to the painting of fingers and toes. Although most of this was Heather’s idea she had some awesome vendors and helpers to make this vision come true.

Stylist: Olivia Yanes
Hair: Kacee Geoffroy
Hair Accessories/sashes: Bows-n-Berries
Photography: Clifton Photography                                                                      

Models: Caitlin Molina, Sophia Molina, Emma Molina, Maya Molina, Matthew Molina, Capri Geoffroy
Dresses:
Caitlin-Kid’s Dream
Sophia-Tip Top
Emma-Maggie & Zoe
Maya-Perfectly Dressed
Matthew-shirt-Carter’s
Capri-Nordstrom
Food: Heather Molina
Location: Private Estate

  

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March 15, 2011 - 11:00 pm

Christina Sanchez - I LOVE LOVE LOVE it! Every detail is perfect! :) The kids are so cute and those headpieces are gorgeous!! This is great Rita!!

March 15, 2011 - 11:07 pm

faith Cherisse - You capture some amazing images Rita! I’m sure those cute little models made it extra special! Beautiful work!

March 19, 2011 - 3:09 pm

Heather Molina-Bows-n-Berries - You did an amazing job, Rita! Thank you so much for capturing my children (and a lovely extra!) wearing my Bows-n-Berries! ;)

The Grand Del Mar Hotel | San Diego Engagements | Todd + Christine Part 2

So yes, I am so excited to share Todd and Christines part 2 of their engagement session. Christine and I had spent sometime throwing around ideas of were to shoot and when she showed me the The Grand Del Mar hotel we both knew that would be perfect!

It was my first time meeting Todd and Christine as we had several phone conversations. When I saw her beautiful radiant smile looking so gorgeous in her blue dress and Todd look so stylish in his suit, we were in for a day of glam!

The Grand Del Mar Hotel in San Diego has so many amazing places to shoot, I know we could of been there all day. Here are a few of my very favorites from our day!

Todd and Christine I couldn’t be more happy for the love you two share, and to be able to document your story at Wilson Creek Winery.

xoxo

Rita

The proposal by Christine:

Todd and I are high school sweethearts. After 8 years together, he toke me by surprise with a Valentine’s Day trip to Napa.  I thought to myself, “Yay, it’s finally happening!” We have gone on trips in the past, but never a surprised one. He told me we were going on the trip by sending me an evite from the steak house he had reservations for on Valentine’s Day. I thought I knew for sure this was going to be the place he would propose.

We left two days before Valentine’s Day early in the morning. Right before we headed out the door Todd said to me, “I want to give you your Valentine’s Day present early, so you can wear it while we’re in Napa.” Again, I thought,
“OMG I’m not even wearing the right outfit, my nails aren’t even done yet!”
He proceeded to pull a ring box out of his pocket, opened the box, and inside was….earrings. Earrings!!! I was thinking. “Thanks??” I questioned. I felt like an idiot. I must have had the most confused look on my face. So, we left for Napa and the next day we went wine tasting. He was acting normal, he didn’t seem nervous, and he’s a very shy person. I again tell myself, “Wow, I really over thought this one.”

Then came Valentines Day.  Todd wanted to switch the earrings in the ring box and put in the engagement ring. He knew I would want to wear the earrings to dinner that night. So his idea was I would open the box, and he would propose. But I kind of accidentally sped up the process. (smiling) It was around 10 a.m. I went into the bathroom to take a shower and get ready for the upcoming day. Right as he was trying to switch everything, I came out of the bathroom.

I looked at the dresser in the hotel room where I had all my jewelry laying out, and I realized my ring box was gone. I asked him, “Where is the box?” (I thought he was testing me, because he always tells me not to leave good jewelry out.) He then pulled the box form his pocket. As soon as he opened the box the ring flew out (because he had to switch it so quickly) and the ring hit my shoe and shot under the dresser. I thought to myself “Holy crap that wasn’t earrings!!!” He told me to help him look for the earrings. I got down on the ground and looked under the dresser, all the way back in the corner I could see a shiny ring! Todd reached under the dresser, pulled out the ring and asked me to marry him!! It was the best day of my life!!! :)

 

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March 8, 2011 - 4:23 pm

Harmony Loves - Ay ay ay!!!!! These are hot!!!! Love them all!

March 8, 2011 - 4:41 pm

Wendy {JustWenderful} - Always capturing the love and that sassiness! Love it Rita!

March 8, 2011 - 4:56 pm

Heather Molina-Bows-n-Berries - Ummmm, there was a part TWO to this?? It was so perfect the first time, and this is equally amazing. Love, love, love! Superb job, Rita…and the adorable couple doesn’t hurt either! lol

March 8, 2011 - 5:55 pm

sandy - gorrrrrgeous!!!!!!!!! i love her bling!!!

March 8, 2011 - 6:42 pm

Alicia Salcedo - Sweeeetnesss x’s 100000!!!

March 8, 2011 - 11:00 pm

Faith - AMAZING!

March 8, 2011 - 11:37 pm

Christina Sanchez - Simply Stunning! I can’t tell you enough how beautiful these are!! :D You are Amazing!! And Christine has great taste in shoes!

March 9, 2011 - 7:57 am

Kelli - Just Amazing as always!

March 9, 2011 - 11:43 am

Marissa Rodriguez - WOW Rita! These are HOT HOT HOT! LOVE!

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