Pacific Northwest

Amy + Jimmy's Hall at Fauntleroy Wedding | Seattle Wedding Photographer

July 26, 2018 in Wedding

Amy + Jimmy picked the perfect day to marry! March in the Pacific Northwest is usually pretty soggy and drab but with a strike of luck the day was not only full of laughter, love, friends and family but it was also full of sunshine and warmth. The perfect start to a lifetime together!

One thing I liked about Amy + Jimmy's wedding is that they kept it simple and made it about what was most important to them.... people. It was fun to follow them throughout the day as they interacted with their friends and family. They weighed out tradition and people on a scale and were able to put together an amazing balance, and experience for their friends and loved ones. Many times I see brides indifferent about traditions or doing them because ... well, because it's tradition. I am definitely a fan of the new wedding trend of setting tradition aside and doing what works best for the bride, groom and their guests. Hooray!

There is a new twist on an old tradition that I do really like though.... first look with the bride and her dad! I love when my brides and grooms do a first look, or even get ready together as it adds an emotional/unique aspect to the wedding (and makes family photos before the ceremony possible!) There is just something so special about the bond between a father and daughter, I always get teary eyed during these first looks! Of course I was raised by a (simply amazing) single dad and we are still very close, so that could be why I love first looks with brides and their dads SO much! Scroll down to see the first look between Amy and her dad, it's pretty darn cute!! Side Note: .... John Goodman?!?!

Overall, Amy + Jimmy's wedding at, The Hall at Fauntleroy in Seattle was pretty darn amazing! Congrats to Amy + Jimmy on their nuptials, may you always be surrounded by as much love and support as I witnessed on your wedding day!

XOXO,

Sarah

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Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Alicia + Brock's Rattlesnake Lake Couples Session | Olympia Wedding Photographer

June 21, 2018 in Love and Engagement, Adventure

Adventure! One of my favorite type of sessions to capture is an adventure session. An adventure session is where we pick a location that is amazing, epic, gorgeous, breathe taking, memorable or all of the above and put you in it. This type of session is great to capture a location that has fond memories or just to capture the PNW in general. Most types of session can be done as an adventure session, which is a great alternative to session at a local park or urban setting.

We chose to do Alicia + Brock's adventurous couples session at Rattlesnake Lake in North Bend. It had been a while since I had shot there so I was pretty excited. We got a beautiful day that was warm and sunny so we shot in the evening and utilized the beautiful soft light of golden hour.

Alicia is such a sweet person, so positive and happy. She was constantly laughing and smiling, which is contagious! Brock is the strong and silent type, his serious face is pensive and you can just tell he is taking everything in. Both Alicia + Brock are artists and are so expressive in their own ways. Their personalities compliment each other and aren't unlike the Chinese Yin + Yang principles that represent the universe.

Alicia + Brock even got SUPER brave at the end of our session and climbed into the chilly lake for some super sexy couples photos. I guess I can't say much since I shot from a dry and warm rock a few steps from shore but in my opinion it was totally worth braving the cold water for these fun and playful photos! HAHA!

This blog really makes me realize how much I love doing adventure sessions! So, stay tuned for a blog on Adventure Portrait Sessions coming soon...!!

Also, check out the amazing necklace Alicia is wearing. It has the prettiest little moonstone hanging from the moon. It was the perfect accessory for her low-v cut dresses.

Moon + Moonstone Necklace: Ethereal Earth Gifts

Dresses: Forever 21

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Ingrid + Dan's Manchester State Park Engagement | Olympia Wedding Photographer

May 24, 2018 in Love and Engagement

Ingrid + Dan hired me to be their wedding photographer and I tell you what, I'm pretty darn excited about it! Just look how stinkin' cute they are! They are so in love, fun-loving and sweet - It was cute to see them laugh and joke and interact with each other!! Can't wait to capture these two's Seattle wedding! Countdown 30 days!

There's is another thing I'm really excited about and it's Manchester State park in Port Orchard, WA. A gorgeous rocky beach, evergreen trees, paths to explore and.... some awesome abandoned buildings! Perk alert: all this is near a parking lot so this is a great location for those with mobility issues!

Ingrid + Dan had a free hotel stay and they decided to use it near Port Orchard, when we started looking for location ideas Ingrid sent me a few and instantly Manchester State Park stood out to me. After a few minutes of research I was even more convinced, so glad we decided on it! Manchester State Park is an hour away from where I live in Olympia which means I had to leave my house by 7:00 am to make our 8:00 am session. (For those of you who know me well) that is EARLY for me and I've always been partial to evenings since 'golden hour' has some amazing light but I ended up loving the beautiful, cool morning light - morning photos session maybe totally be my new thing..... maybe.

Awesome couple, an adventurous new location, abandoned buildings, a beach, fun and smiles and pretty morning light - what a perfect combination!

“I could make you happy, make your dreams come true. Nothing that I wouldn’t do.

Go to the ends of the earth for you to make you feel my love.” ~Bob Dylan

You’re my end and my beginning
Even when I lose I’m winning
'Cause I give you all of me
And you give me all of you

-John Legend

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Wedding Essentials Checklist | Wedding Resource | Olympia Wedding Photographer

November 16, 2017 in Wedding Resources

Hello! Congrats on your engagement! Your wedding day will be one of the most memorable days of your life but it's going to take some planning to get there. After all, if you've never planned a wedding how do you know everything you'll need to do?? This is a simple checklist to keep track of the tasks that need to be completed before your big day. So don't let it scare you! Take charge, start planning and have fun with it!

Browse below then download you PDF copy HERE.

Wedding Essentials Checklist

Engagement

Insure ring
Set wedding date
Throw an engagement party
Get engagement photos done

Apparel

Wedding dress
Dress bag
Alterations
Wedding Shoes
Backup flats
Veil/tiara/headpiece
Garter
Reception dress
Reception Shoes
Undergarments (bra, corset, slip, nylons, panties)
Getting ready robe for bride or Button up shirt (So you don’t mess up your hair)
Earrings
Necklace
Hair accessories
Something old
Something new
Something borrowed
Something blue
Departure outfit
Groom's Tuxedo
Tie
Tie clip
Cufflinks
Vest
Suspenders
Belt
Shoes
Watch
Getting Ready Robes
Bridesmaids dresses
Flower girls dresses
Ring Bearer tuxedos
Groomsmen tuxedos
Groomsmen shoes

Rehearsal Dinner

Venue
Caterer
Bartender
Liquor/beer/wine
Non-alcoholic beverages
Decorations
Music
Parking
Dishes/glassware/silverware
Linens
Food
Servers
Signature drink

Getting Ready

Make-up artist(s)
Hair dresser (s)
Mani/Pedi
Champagne/OJ
Snacks
Emergency Bridal Kit

Find a Makeup Artist

Ceremony

Officiant
Marriage paperwork (bring on day of)
Alter/aisle decorations
Guest book + pen
Pillow or ring box for ring bearer
Basket for flower girls petals
Aisle runner
Ushers
Transportation to reception if at different location
DJ
Playlist

Find a Venue

Reception

Venue
Table decorations
Venue decorations
Sign
Cake table decorations
Guest book table decorations
Card box
Guest book + pen
Photobooth
Caterer/food
Signature drink
Dishes, glasses, silverware
Toasting glasses
Napkins
Table Clothes
Menu
Cake
Cake Knife
Plates and silverware for cake
Musician or DJ
Playlist
Bar Tender
Liquor/beer/wine
Non-alcoholic beverages
Appetizers for cocktail hour
Chairs
Tables
Parking
Bubbles/rice/sparklers
Transportations
Designated person to round up family for family portraits

Find a DJ

Rings

Wedding band
Groom’s ring
Engraving
Sizing
Insurance
Pre-wedding cleaning

Flowers

Bridal bouquet
Floral headpiece
Toss bouquet
Wedding party bouquets
Groom boutonniere
Groomsmen’s boutonnieres
Mother of the bride corsage
Mother of the groom corsage
Father of the bride boutonniere
Father of the groom boutonniere
Grandparent’s corsages/boutonnieres
Special guests corsages/boutonnieres
Petals for flower girls
Table center pieces
Arch decorations
Flowers for cake
Decorations for aisle

Find a florist

Stationary

Announcements
Save-the-dates
Invitations
Envelopes
Stamps
RSVP cards
Address Labels
Maps/direction cards
Registry cards
Wedding programs
Calligrapher
Newspaper announcement
Thank you cards
Rehearsal dinner invitations
Bachelor/Bachelorette party invitations

Find a Calligrapher

Gifts & Favors

Thank your or reminder token for your guests to take home. Handmade or store bought (optional)
Gift for groom from bride
Gift for bride from groom
Bridal party gifts
Groomsmen’s gifts
Flower girl gift
Ring bearer gift

Find Gifts

Photography/Videography

Discuss below details and expectations with your photographer

Engagement portraits
Bridal Boudoir portraits - Set up a bridal boudoir party with your bridesmaids. Super fun day and you can get an album for a wedding gift for your fiance
Getting ready
First look - Decide if you want to stick with tradition or do a first look. Ask your photographer if you aren’t sure
Bridal portraits - List several important shots
Family portraits - Who is important and specific group shots if you have a preference
Ceremony portraits
Reception photos
Bridal Session
Albums, canvases + prints - Think wedding thank you gifts, wall art and heirloom albums

Discuss wedding day details and expectations with videographer

Find the Perfect Photographer

Honeymoon

Plane tickets
Hotel
Rental Car
Entertainment
Lingerie
Appropriate clothing

Miscellaneous

Apply for marriage certificate
Wedding planner
Hotel for out of town guests
Printed copies of wedding day timeline

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Trina + Jonathon's Romantic Spring Session....At My Neighbors House | Olympia Engagement Photographer

June 15, 2017 in Love and Engagement

If you've been following me at all you know that I am a sucker for beautiful locations! Rattlesnake Lake, Franklin Falls, beaches, mountains, the ocean......! I have a list 10 pages long of all the locations I want to photograph a couple or elopement at (Some I will be checking off the bucket list this summer so if you are recently engaged message me!!! #shamelessadvertising but it's my blog so I can do that haha)

As a Pacific Northwest Wedding Photographer I consider myself quite lucky because there is no shortages of beautiful locations to shoot at. So, I spend so much time dreaming of and planning shoots in many of these breathtaking locations that sometimes I forget that some of the most beautiful locations can be right in front of you! Sometimes it's the side of the road (been there, done that) and sometimes you can't help but ask your neighbor if you can shoot in there driveway - after years of ogling over it!!!

Meet Trina + Jonathan - they are fellow photographers from PS Photography by Trina + Jonathan. They met me in Lacey along with my good friend Leslie of One Thousand Words to make my vision of shooting in blossoms (at least once a year) happen! Wow, did it ever happen! Trina + Jonathan have years of marriage and four kids under their belts and still are MADLY in love with each other!!! Of course with that type of connection they could make any location look good but my NEIGHBOR'S DRIVEWAY lined with gorgeous pink blossoms was just PERFECT! Overgrown field across from their house was a bonus :)

So, when you are thinking about planning a portrait session, an adventurous location like Franklin Falls or Rattlesnake Ledge would be amazing and would surely yield some amazing images. BUT don't forget that there is beauty all around us and we don't have to travel far to create some epic portraits. For those of you who can't swing an adventure portrait session this year, this may be the perfect option for you! I've got endless ideas so message me if you want your own beautiful little session.

Trina's makeup was ON POINT for this session! Amanda at A Second Look - Makeup by Amanda nailed it!!

Oh, and for those of you drooling over Trina's gorgeous floral dress (like me) find one in your size HERE.

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Fun Prop Ideas for Your Portrait Session

June 08, 2017 in Portrait Resources

Most of the portraits that I shoot focus more on the connection between people rather than props but I do recommend bringing one or two personal items to make your session unique and fun. It doesn't have to be big and elaborate to make amazing photos (but if you have a beautiful armchair briiiing it!!)

Couples/Engagement Photography

Chalkboard
Save the Date
Rings
Pillows, blankets
Candles
Flowers
Flower Crown
Beautiful Dress
Uniform
Antique or Victorian armchair, love seat or couch.
Matching item ex baseball caps or jerseys
Balloons
Hammock
A bicycle
Large balloon or half a dozen small ones (helium)
Umbrella
Signs
Old Pick-up truck or car
Row boat
Coffee
Hat

Maternity Photography

Book
Ultrasound Photo
Baby Shoes
Sign
Chalkboard
Letters Spelling Babies Name
Flowers
Floral Crown
Antique or Victorian armchair, love seat or couch.
Balloons
Pickles and Ice Cream!
Significant or cherished item
Chalk
Lace dress, a flowing dress
Fur baby and sign to announce pregnancy
Tiny crown
Baby Daddy!! siblings.
Sun hat
Swing (Can be adorned with flowers)
Large piece of sheer fabric
Wedding Rings
Tulle Skirt and Bralette

Senior Photography

Letterman Jacket
Sports Paraphernalia
Your best friend or close family member so you are more relaxed
Medals or Awards that you are proud of
Sports uniforms
Instruments
College Swag
Several Outfits
A fun hat
Sunglasses
Swing (Can be adorned with flowers)
Flowers
Floral Crown
Antique or Victorian armchair, love seat or couch.
Balloons
Book
Sign
Graduation year numbers
Globe
Flag
Significant Necklace or Bracelent
Class Ring
Props that elude to your future career (stethoscope for doctor etc)
The best prop you can bring is confidence and a genuine smile!

Family Photography

Pillows and Blanket
Tent, Campfire, s'mores
Chalkboard
Family Pet
Bicycles
Kayaks
Hiking boots and a gorgeous view!
Signs
Bubbles
Antique or Victorian armchair, love seat or couch.
Old Pick-up truck or car
Tee-Pee

Children's Photography

Watermelon
Lemonade stand
Kissing booth
Old Pick-up truck or car
Signs
Bubbles
Antique or Victorian armchair, love seat or couch.
Tee-Pee
Bicycle or Tricycle
Umbrella
Balloons
Child-sized chairs
Headbands
Bow Ties
Cakes or cupcakes
Lollipop
Swing
Vintage Suitcases
Chalk

Lifestyle Photography

Game or activity
Books
Baking
Ice cream
Pillow Fight
Fort
Sprinkler
Water balloons
Tea/coffee
Couch
Bed
Wagon
Bicycle or Tricycle
Popsicles
Trampoline
Hike
Tent, campfire, s'mores

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Preparing For Your Portrait Session

June 01, 2017 in Portrait Resources

Hello friends! So you're getting your picture taken! Let's talk about a few things to get you ready for our session!

Although we can schedule your session any time during the day, we try to schedule to take advantage of the best natural light. The hours after sunrise and before sunset are 'golden' times and have ideal lighting. The golden light of these hours are soft, flattering and BEAUTIFUL! Please make sure you specify one of these time slots if you are interested.

ASK QUESTIONS! We strive to create a custom experience for each of our clients. Feel free to ask questions including location advice, wardrobe, style, props and more! Below are a few guidelines to get you started.

Clothing

Keep the attire simple, but coordinate colors for groups.
Solid colors are best... try to avoid large bold patterns and neon colors as they can take attention away from your face. If you do select an outfit with a pattern try to match that pattern to solid colors for the clothing of the other parties in the portrait.
When selecting your wardrobe consider the location of your portrait session and match accordingly. For example, soft colors look great at the beach and avoid green in the forest so you don't blend in!
If you plan to hang a large print or canvas of your images consider the colors of your home when selecting your wardrobe.
Darker, solid colors appear more slimming than lighter colors.
Dress weather appropriate so you aren't too hot or cold.
Be sure to include the appropriate shoes, socks and stockings for your outfit. Plan your wardrobe from head to toe as full length poses are a part of your portrait session.
Bring an outfit change(s) to add variety to your sitting.
Wear clothing you are uncomfortable in. If you are uncomfortable it will show in your face and will be harder to relax and enjoy yourself.
Avoid baggy clothing as it can make you look big/boxy.
Eyeglasses can create glare that hides your eyes. We recommend wearing contacts if you have them or asking your optician if you can borrow a similar frame without lenses.
Remember to empty your pockets of cellphones, keys, chapstick etc so there aren't visible outlines.
Ladies!!! Take your hairbands off your wrists.
Feel free to bring a few props with you to add a unique touch to your portraits.
Bring a portable speaker and your favorite tunes! Music can create some great vibes and help you relax.

Hair/Make-up

We highly recommend getting your hair and make-up done as professional stylists know how to apply makeup to best bring out your natural beauty! Besides, knowing you look fabulous and FEELING fabulous will help you be more relaxed and happy. Those natural smiles and real laughter are always my fave!

There are many talented Hair and Makeup artists in the area, if you'd like suggestions please contact one of the artists on our Wedding Resource Guide.

Kids

Bring snacks to avoid hangry 'tudes. Also good for bribery.
Bring a comfort item - stuffed animal, pacifier, blankey etc.
Make sure parents AND kids are both rested. You may be so focused on making sure your child is well rested that you forget about yourself. Children are very sensitive to their parents emotions and even the slightest bit of grump or frustration can affect their behavior. Bottom line, if you are happy and relaxed your kids will be too!
Allow for extra time to get to the location and prepare for your session. The events leading up to your session can set the tone of the day. Extra time = no stress about being late and time for your munchkins to look around and acclimate to the location.
Don't force them to smile! That's my job! Kids are much more relaxed and natural when you aren't telling them what to do and what not to do. Relax and have fun with them, your smiles and laughter will relax them and then their smiles will come naturally. I'll say it again - when you are stressed they are stressed, when you are relaxed they are relaxed!
Bring baby wipes! Cause boogers.

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Tonya + Mark's Seattle Courthouse Wedding | Seattle Wedding Photographer

February 07, 2017 in Wedding

In December I second shot Tonya + Mark's Seattle Municipal Court wedding with Markie Jones Photography. Markie and I met Tonya, Mark and their parents at the courthouse and spent some time taking some outdoor portraits. It was a typical Seattle winter day with bouts of cold wind and rain and we were definitely chilly! It didn't take us long before we opted for some indoor shots by the large windows in the entrance of the courthouse. They made for some fun and dramatic images! We then headed upstairs to a long corridor where many couples and their loved ones waited for their turns. We didn't have to wait too long before Tonya + Mark's names were called. We were lead back to a large corner conference room lined with windows and an amazing view of downtown Seattle. The ceremony was short and sweet and soon we were headed to CI Shenanigans in Tacoma to celebrate their marriage with friends and family. When we arrived people were already getting seated and it was a full house!! So many friends and family came to honor the couple and laughter and chatter filled the room. Soon a deliciously decked out buffet was served and drink were flowing from the bar. The multi-leveled cake had a cute custom topper and boasted several different flavors! The reception was fun and relaxed and everyone had a great time. Side note, look how cute those little wedding favors are!

This couple has already seen their share of tough times and unfair circumstances, but their commitment to each other has held them together. Stronger is their love today and it will continue to grow as time passes. Through sickness and health, they will stand together and conquer all that comes their way. Cheers to the adventure of marriage and all the wonderful moments it will bring!

“Every atom of your flesh is as dear to me as my own: in pain and sickness it would still be dear.”

-Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre

Congrats Tonya + Mark!

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Dnycia's Ft. Steilacoom Park Senior Portraits | Tacoma Senior Photographer

January 20, 2017 in Senior

I met this sweet senior's mother, Letitia, at a get together with some friends and she started telling me about her soccer-loving daughter, Dnycia, so I was excited when Letitia contacted me to do Dyncia's senior portraits! We had one reschedule due to rain but as a Pacific Northwest Senior Photographer I considered that lucky because the next was beautiful and we even had some sun!!

Letitia had warned me that Dnycia was shy but camera's don't lie! Just look at that smile!!! Once she warmed up a bit I think she even had fun! I know I did! So nice to meet you Dnycia, good luck in the rest of your senior year and I'll see you for family photos in the summer.

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Kenzi + Daniel's Rattlesnake Lake Couples Maternity | Olympia Maternity Photographer

January 09, 2017 in Maternity

One of my absolute favorite session to date - Kenzi and Daniel's Rattlesnake Lake maternity was a dream!!! As a Pacific Northwest Maternity Photographer I live for the dreamy, moody PNW sessions. The rich colors of Rattlesnake Lake along with Kenzi's red hair was a perfect combination! This sweet couple just had their baby boy, join me in welcoming baby Everett!

Congrats Kenzi, Daniel and new big sis Olivia!!! - Can't wait to get your amazing little family in front of my camera again!

To see more of this amazing session click HERE.