This day embodied everything I love about being a documentary wedding photographer. A sense of spaciousness and ease (nothing felt rushed!) that allowed me to capture so much life, spontaneity and the kind of beauty that happens in ordinary moments. A community of kind, warm, and generous people who were not solely witnesses but participants in the creation of the day. An effervescent, grounded, tender couple who were clearly elated to be marrying each other. These are the things that make my work so full of joy and delight. :)
Ralston White Retreat is tucked into the eastern slope of Mount Tamalpais, a hidden gem at the end of a short mountain road from Mill Valley. There is so much to take in... a hundred year old historical house with panoramic views, gardens, and adjacent redwood forest with trails leading to the top of Mt Tam.
Tip: The house has 16 cozy bedrooms (plus lots of indoor and outdoor gathering spaces), making it easy to host quite a few friends and family for the weekend and spend more relaxed time hanging out together.
Gina and Scott did exactly that. They spent the whole weekend doing things they love outdoors and celebrating the way they wanted, which included nature walks, a whiskey tasting with their closest friends, BBQ dinner, and late night dance party. Their ceremony was held on the giant heart shaped lawn, which I learned was part of the property's original design (a century before it became a wedding venue!), conceived by the owners Ralston and Ruth White as a proclamation of their love for each other.
BEHIND-THE-SCENES ♡ venue: Ralston White Retreat ~ coordinator: Michelle Hatsushi ~ florals: DIY ~ hair: Keshawn Prince ~ dress: Jenny Yoo ~ photography: Rachelle Derouin [p.s. If you're planning a wedding at Ralston White Retreat, contact me and I’d be happy to share more about my experience there.]
