Here’s a little sneak from Jacky & Eli’s beautiful destination wedding at the Banyan Tree Mayakoba in Playa del Carmen. If you’re looking for a destination wedding spot on the Caribbean, make sure the Banyan Tree is on your list. It’s an INCREDIBLE little slice of zen paradise on the  Riviera Maya coast. Can’t wait to share more soon!

This is what makes me love doing destination weddings!

email us | follow joy marie on twitter | follow david on twitter | become a fan on facebook

If you’re planning a barn wedding, and you want a rustic feel, Ojai Valley Inn is one of Southern California’s hidden gems. I’ve shot their a few times, and absolutely love the location! Here’s a little sneak peek from a celebrity wedding I shot there. Thanks again to Jill LaFleur for planning this gorgeous wedding, and mentioning it as one of her favorites for a recent Junebug Weddings Feature.

email us | follow joy marie on twitter | follow david on twitter | become a fan on facebook

Location, location, location!! Sometimes we as photographers stumble upon locations that completely inspire, move and stretch our creativity. This usually happens for me on destination weddings where the architecture, light and textures are so different from our typical American backdrop.  I have had the opportunity to do so much traveling and see so many beautiful locations that I’ve decided to start sharing some of my favorites. This last year I have had the pleasure of shooting a few of my favorite couples at the Korakia Pensione in Palm Springs, and I AM SMITTEN!!  This little oasis is nestled up against the mountains of Palm Springs, but feels like you have traveled half way around the world and landed at some sexy hotel on the Mediterranean.  Every nook and cranny of this property is rich with texture, imported furniture and SO much charm. If you are planning a destination wedding, a sexy photo shoot, or just want to get away to relax and unwind with your honey…this is the spot! Here are a few shots from one of my favorite weddings, Cari Ann & Jared…but stay tuned for more Korakia Pensione amazingness coming soon!

email us | follow joy marie on twitter | follow david on twitter | become a fan on facebook

Now that we’re just past Valentine’s Day, I know there are lots of newly engaged couples out there!! If you’re planning a Nashville wedding, be sure to drop by CJ’s Off the Square in Historic Downtown Franklin for their BIG Open House Event this Sunday, February 22nd, 2pm – 5pm. Whether you’re looking for some great invitation ideas, or a gorgeous, intimate venue for your wedding, you don’t want to miss this event!! I know the team that runs CJ’s personally, and we’re talking nothing short of excellence! And more importantly, they’re just nice people to be around!! For the 411 on this event, Click Here.

The Oviatt Penthouse is one of Los Angeles’ architectural gems. Long the playground of Hollywood royalty, the Oviatt Penthouse is great for weddings. I like the Oviatt because the old world craftsmanship makes for some amazing backdrops. Also, the lighting sets the perfect mood for sophisticated & romantic shots.

What an amazing year it has been!  I am so fortunate to have had such incredible clients and gorgeous weddings to photograph this year.  I will be posting some of my favorite  highlights from 2008 as we wrap this  year up and perhaps the most important decision the bride and groom make besides their photographer of course (smile) is the venue.  One venue that I love love love to shoot at is The Adamson House in Malibu, CA. The Adamson House is a Malibu landmark and it makes for a GORGEOUS ocean-front wedding. This location has the rare combination of old historic charm with the beautiful southern california beach.  While they only book weddings April – October, that’s actually the perfect time of year for Malibu weddings.

The grounds of The Adamson House are amazing!

It doesn't get much better than a Malibu wedding reception overlooking the Pacific.

The lawns at The Adamson House are spacious. Here, Sabrina & Apur catch their breath for a minute after the ceremony.

The Adamson House architecture is amazing, with great backdrops for portraits.

I love that there are so many great spots for family formals, even with difficult lighting conditions.

The grounds are big enough for a good sized reception, and plenty of room for dancing.

I love all of the textured areas for getting great pictures!

I’ve really enjoyed shooting weddings at The Adamson House. The weather always seems to be pristine, and the staff is gracious & hospitable. The last wedding I photographed at The Adamson House was Sabrina & Apur’s a few weeks ago. I recommend The Adamson House to couples looking for a gorgeous location that’s sophisticated & elegant, without being over-the-top.