Kellogg House Pomona Wedding | Craig + Melina

Kellogg House at Cal Poly Pomona Wedding

Location: 3801 West Temple Avenue, Building 112 Pomona, CA 91768

Wedding Photographer & Videographer: Mike Federis Photography

Melina & Craig’s wedding turned out to be a beautiful summer wedding considering the ominous weather leading up a week prior to the wedding day. A high chance of rain was forecasted on the wedding day but the weather gods gave us a gift that day.

The Kellogg House is beautiful wedding venue located within the Cal Poly Pomona University. Their wedding took place in front of the Manor Grand Gates and reception took place in the scenic garden terrace overlooking Cal Poly Pomona.

The Barton House Redlands | Wedding Venue Review

The Barton House

Redlands, California

Wedding Venue Review

The Barton House in Redlands, California is one of my favorite wedding venues in Southern California. I am a bit biased since I use to live in Redlands and I’m a preferred wedding vendor. However, I truly enjoy photographing weddings at Barton House. The staff and the vibes are amazing!

Here’s an example wedding gallery: ERIKA + ALBERT

I decided that the best way to provide you with a comprehensive perspective of Barton House is to conduct an interview with the amazing, venue manager, Jessica. We discuss everything from the history of Barton House to specific details that you may need to know if considering this venue for your wedding.

Interview Questions and Answer | Jessica

- Please tell us a little bit about the history of the Barton House.

• The Barton House was built in 1866 as the first house in Redlands, and second fire-brick building in San Bernardino County. Back in that time it was the home of Dr. Benjamin Barton (i.e., Barton Road), as well as a vineyard. He was a prominent family doctor and wine maker, and helped incorporate the city of Redlands and surrounding area. Many of our older wedding guests remember it from the 1970's when it was a ranch where they would learn to ride horses. In the 90's and early 2000's it was a bit worn down and became known for its paranormal activities among teenagers. It's gone through a few remodels over its years. You'll notice a picture of the House in our lobby of what it looked like in the 1900s. Its roofing has changed slightly - there is no longer a "widows peak" and the staircases to the balcony are "newer" - you'll even find some pampas grass in the photo (huge wedding trend now). But not until 2010 or so is when was it purchased by our current owners from the City and restored to its former beauty. It now houses local businesses upstairs and in the carriage houses who share our lot, and about five years ago began hosting weddings and events. The Barton House (also called Barton Mansion or Villa) was put into the City’s Register of Historic Resources in 1993 and in 1996 it received designation on the National Register of Historic Places.

• - Where is the venue located?

  • Its address is 20 Nevada St, Redlands, CA 92373. More descriptively, we're in the "jewel" of the inland empire about 60 miles east of Los Angeles, and 40 miles west of Palm Springs. You'll find the large brick building on the corner of Nevada Street & Barton Road.

• - How many guests can you accommodate for ceremony and reception?

  • We welcome up to 150 guests within our wedding rate, but there is an opportunity to go up to 300 for an additional fee

• - Can you describe the different spaces you provide? (Ceremony, bridal room, groom room, parlor room)

  • We are a primarily outdoor venue. You'll often see ceremonies take place near our palm trees on the far end of the lawn with the San Gorgonio mountains in the background with reception tables either surrounding our 25ft cemented circular dance floor or closer to the House itself. Of course some prefer the House as their ceremony backdrop so their reception then pivots to the far end. The layout is decided upon by the couple and their vision on how they want to use the open space. Inside the Barton House we offer the parlor room that opens to the wrap around patio. Traditionally a parlor would be used for cocktails, but we also see it used as a welcome space for a guestbook and display of those lovely engagement photos, or a display for appetizers and desserts. The upstairs balcony is available for sweetheart photos during golden hour as the sunlight hits the brick. The groom's room is just as you enter the House from the lobby. This room offers more of a masculane vibe with seating, coat hooks and a full-length mirror. While the bride's room down the hall is a bit larger and more elegant and equipped with a vanity, tall hooks for dresses, sofas and views of the grounds. Our kitchenette is also referred to as the vendor room as a space where vendors can leave their items, store decor boxes, beverages and desserts, and prepare for the reception. Lastly, it might be weird to talk about the bathrooms, but they're really cutely decorated - envision a 1920s style restroom with original style-magazine clippings hung as posters. While unisex, the "men's room" is larger and more handicap accessible for those who need the space, and the other has two stalls that open to a shared sink. There are two rumors of what that now restroom once was. Some say it was a jail/holding cell as the only brick building in the area, or it was the kitchen. You'll see original bars used as ventilation from the outside of the house as you walk up to the breezeway.

• - Is there a separate space for cocktail hour?

  • Most cocktail hours will take place closer to the house or nearest the bar area. The parlor room, as I stated earlier, would traditionally be used to entertain guests with cocktails, but that doesn't have to be its sole purpose.

• - What makes your wedding venue unique compared to other venues near the area?

  • One is its history. It is a very important piece of Redlands history and offers its expansive outdoor lawn with the first house in the City as its backdrop. Secondly, we welcome any vendor of your choosing based on your style and budget. It's a "your day your way" kind of venue... within reason and respectful of our venue policies of course. Also its affordability.

• - Do you have a preferred vendor list?

  • While we don't have "preferred" vendors we do have an extensive vendor list available of people who are familiar and respectful of our venue.

• - Can I hire my own vendors or do I need to stick to the preferred vendor list?

  • Hire your own, but let us know if you need help looking for something specific. We have hundreds of vendors in our network that we can recommend as needed.

• - What’s your weather contingency plan for outdoor spaces?

  • Being an outdoor venue this is very important. In the case it's rainy or crazy hot we do welcome a tent or umbrellas. To be mindful of our grass and the effort it takes to maintain it wedding after wedding, we do ask that tents and umbrellas be secured with stakes (not bases, barrels or sand bags that would otherwise be used on cement). We have many tent vendors we can recommend even as late as the day before your wedding...although it's always best to plan ahead of time.

• - Are there any noise restrictions?

  • As an outdoor venue in a residential neighborhood we do have to be mindful of the noise. Music must be off by 10pm. DJs and bands are limited to 2 speakers, and bands are limited to three hours unless they're acoustic. Sadly, no Bandas (Regional Mexican Bands are far too loud for our neighborhood).

• - How late can I have my wedding?

  • You're welcome to a 12 hour day from 11am to 11pm.

Riverside Citrus State Park Wedding | Amber & Brett

Citrus State Park Wedding & Events

Location: 9400 Dufferin Ave. Riverside, CA 92503

Wedding Photographer & Videographer: Mike Federis Photography

Amber & Brett are one of the most down to earth couples I’ve met over the years. They were very easy going and really made my job super easy!

Amber was actually a former wedding coordinator at the Citrus State Park Venue and so she knew the in and outs of the venue. Thus, made the wedding day flow so much easier from the planning process to the wedding day.

Citrus State park is one of my favorite wedding venues in Riverside. The venue sits right in the middle of the park surrounded by hundreds of orange and palm trees. The venue has a sheek bridal suite which makes for some creative photos.

Amber & Brett’s wedding was filled with so much joy and happiness! Congrats again and goodluck in the east coast!

READY TO BOOK! LET’S DO THIS.

Best Wedding & Elopement Location in Joshua Tree National Park

Best Wedding & Elopement Location in Joshua Tree National Park

Wedding Photographer: Mike Federis Photography

Hidden Valley Campground is our favorite location in Joshua Tree National Park for weddings and elopements. This location provides most of the variety that you would see within the 800,000 acres of Joshua Tree National Park. If you are planning to elope or host a small and intimate wedding, this is our go-to location due to it’s accessibility and picturesque backdrop.

Best Spots within the Hidden Valley Area:

• Hidden Valley Picnic Area

• Hidden Valley Nature Trail

• Small Boulders within the campgrounds

• Open area east of the Hidden Valley Picnic Area (best for sunset photos)

How to get to Hidden Valley?

We recommend entering from the West Entrance Station, which is located near Joshua Tree City. The drive from the west entrance to Hidden Valley is about 11 miles. However, you can also take the North Entrance, which is located in 29 Palms or the South Entrance which is the longest route (approximately 58 miles).

Entrance Fee?

The cost to enter the park is $30 for a 7-day pass for each vehicle. They only accept credit/debit card. You can also pre-purchase an Annual National Park Pass “America the Beautiful” which provides you annual access to all the National Parks in the United States.

Amenities?

There are pit-toilets throughout the National Park. Unfortunately, there are no vending machines and stores within the park. We recommend brining your own food and stopping by the Joshua Tree Visitor Center (6554 Park Blvd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252) which is located before the West Entrance. The Visitor Center has restrooms, small gift shop and restaurant with refreshments.

If you are really adventurous and want to spend the weekend in Joshua Tree, you can actually camp at one of the 44 site within the Hidden Valley Campground. Unfortunately, the camp sites are first-come, first served, but you can reserve a campsite from the following campgrounds: Blackrock, Cottonwood, Indian Cove, Jumbo Rocks, and Ryan. These campsite are very inexpensive and typically cost between $20-$25.

One of main reasons why we love this location is the large boulders and rock formations, these boulders don’t only make for photography backdrops but provides some needed shade from the sun if you are planning to elope during the harsh summer wedding in Joshua Tree National Park.

The second reason is parking, there area has ample parking within the lots compared to the other sites within Joshua Tree.

This site also has pit toilets which are also essential if you plan to change outfits.

The last reason why we love this location are the views! Our favorite spot to photograph during sunset is near the Hidden Valley Picnic Area. You can capture amazing sunset photos towards the west of the picnic area. We love capturing wide-angle photos of our couples to show of the majestic landscape of the Joshua trees.

Mission Inn Hotel Wedding | Joyce + Paul | Riverside, California

JOYCE & PAUL

Venue Location: Mission Inn Hotel, Riverside, CA

Hair & Make Up: Design Visage

Decor & Flowers: Irises Designs

Cake: Some Crust Bakery

Officiant: Don Johnson

Date: 09.26.2021

Wedding Photographer: Mike Federis Photography

Mission Inn Hotel in Downtown Riverside has always been one of the wedding venues that’s been on my bucket list since I started my wedding photography business. I’m a local riverside resident and I’ve toured the Mission Inn several times and this venue is seriously stunning for wedding photography. The Mission Inn Hotel is a national land mark with breath taking architecture. The hotel also provides 2 on-site chapels and several reception sites to fit your wedding vibes.

The Santa Barbara Room

Joyce + Paul had a beautiful and intimate wedding with their closest friends and family. The ceremony was held at the Court of the Orient with a stunning floral archway. The reception was held at the Santa Barbara Room which overlooks the Court of the Orient. There are so many different locations within Mission Inn to take the bride and groom for portraits. My favorite location for bride and groom portraits is the courtyard between the two chapels. In addition, a photo in front of the massive doors of the chapel is a must. However, just take a walk around the interior hallways of the Mission Inn and your creative juices will continue to flow with numerous possibilities.

The Court of the Orient

Thank you again Joyce + Paul for having me as a guest and photographing your beautiful wedding at the historic Mission Inn Hotel!

Beautiful Backyard Wedding in Riverside | Desiree & Miguel

DESIREE + MIGUEL

Magical Backyard Wedding in Riverside, California

Church Location: Holy Name of Jesus (Redlands)

Portrait Location: Prospect Park, Redlands, CA

Reception Venue (Backyard): Riverside, CA

Date: 05.29.2021

Wedding Photographer & Videographer: Mike Federis Photography

Make Up Artist: Callie Allen Makeup

Hair Stylist: Bonitas By Sarita

Tacos: Tacos Delitas

Event Decoration: Glitz N Glam Occasions

Cake: Cheesecakes by Rosie

DJ: AJ

Desiree & Miguel are one of most understanding and loving couples I’ve ever met. From the time we first met in person for their engagement session, I could instantly recognize their sincere love for each other. Desiree has a bubbly and charismatic personality, while Miguel is loving family man and a bit of a joker sometimes, which makes for a perfect match!

Desiree & Miguel’s wedding day went as smooth as a wedding could go. Desiree & Miguel’s goal was to have a small and intimate wedding with their closest friends and family. Their wedding party only consisted of 2 groomsmen and 2 bridesmaids, and around 70 guests.

Their wedding day started off at the Holy Name of Jesus Christ Catholic Church in Redlands. Father Gino Galley officiated their wedding and he was one of the most enthusiastic and vocal priests I’ve ever seen. Father Gino was extremely engaging and it was amazing capturing his emotions on film and video. The ceremony was full of emotions. One of the most important moments I love capturing is the reaction of the groom while the bride walks down the aisle with her father. This moment is so defining, this time is what we refer to as the “first look” since this is the first time the groom will see his bride during the wedding day. Miguel’s reaction was so special, the moment the church doors opened and Desiree walked down the aisle; Miguel instantly broke into tears and smiles.

After the wedding, we headed out to Prospect Park in Redlands with their bridal party to do some formal portraits. Prospect Park is my go to park for large group photos especially during mid-day when the sun is harsh. The park has plenty of tall and large trees which provide ample shade for your clients and makes for even lighting for photos. One of the best spot for bridal party photos is right next to the parking area at the top. This area is surrounded by trees and has a tall wall of bamboo trees. Also great for portrait photos!

After we finished at Prospect Park, we headed out to the reception, which was hosted by Desiree’s Dad. The backyard was massive and could easily host more than 100 guests. The wedding details and decor was provided by Glitz N Glam Occasions. The tables were beautify lined with pearl linen and seated 8 guests. They also provided tents which provided the needed shade from the summer heat. Overall, the decor and styling fit the theme and vibe of Desiree & Miguel’s wedding.

Backyard weddings are definitly a challenging event to plan, but Desiree & Miguel did an amazing job coordinating and hiring the right vendors. All the vendors, guests, and family were so great to work with. Thank you again Desiree & Miguel for trusting me to capture you special day. It is a wedding that I will always have a special place in my heart and I’m so grateful that you guys have become great friends of mine!

---

Here’s what Desiree & Miguel had to say about their wedding:

What were your top 3 photos from the wedding gallery?

What was the biggest surprise of the day?

The biggest surprise of the day was the Violet flowers my brother got for us to present to the Blessed Mother. I had asked my brother to purchase the flowers last minute as a favor because we didn't have time to do it. Violet is the name of my grandmother who passed in 2011. She and my grandfather raised my two brothers and I. She was extremely special to all of us. My brother didn't even realize he picked out Violet flowers. I really believe my grandma used those flowers to let us know she was with us and that she also blesses our marriage. It was such a beautiful surprise.

What was your most anticipated part of the day?

The food and the vows.

What ended up being your favorite part of the day?

When our priest announced us as Mr. and Mrs. Lopez.

What were some of your favorite wedding details?

The Sweetheart table and our wedding favors. The decor over all was everything and more than we ever dreamed of.

Describe the venue and why did you choose it?

The venue was hosted in my dads back yard. It was beautiful, intimate and cost effective.

How did you feel after the day ended?

Exhausted and euphoric.

What did you like most about working with our Team?

Everything! The team guided us effortlessly. The team made us feel so comfortable and we never felt rushed.

What are you looking forward to the most as a married couple?

We are looking forward to growing our family and growing in love.

What advice would you give to future couples for their wedding?

Set boundaries and pray together

Courthouse Wedding in Riverside | Fasayo & Nnaemeka

FASAYO & NNAEMEKA

Location: Riverside County Assessor Clerk - Recorder

Portrait Location: Sycamore Highland Park, Riverside

Venue: Mission Inn Hotel & Spa

Date: 08.05.2021

Wedding & Elopement Photographer: Mike Federis Photography

Sometimes love can’t wait and getting married in a week is a must. This is basically the story of Fasayo & Nnaemeka. They are both Doctors and known each other for over 7 years. They decided to tie the knot and host a micro wedding with their closes friends and family at Riverside County Assessor.

Civic weddings are very simple. The couple basically reports to the county clerks office and sign the marriage documents prior to the small ceremony within the courthouse. They usually allow only a small amount of friends and family to attend as witnesses.

I really do love small weddings for two reasons, it’s intimate and less stress. I find it that the couples are much happier and don’t have to worry about all the other stress that’s related to a big wedding day.

After the ceremony, I took the couple to Sycamore Highland Park which overlooks the Sycamore Wilderness Park in the City of Riverside. The park is well maintained and tons of variety for couple portraits. In addition, the shade provided by the large trees are also great for photos, since it provides even lighting during mid-day sun.

After the park portraits, we walked around Downtown Riverside and took some more photos before heading into Duane’s Restaurant in Mission Inn.

Thank you again Fasayo & Nnaemeka for trusting me to capture your special day!

Summer Wedding at Temecula Winery - Churon Inn | Brad & Breanna

BRAD + BREANNA

Location: 33233 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591

Venue: Churon Inn Winery

Date: 06.19.2021

Wedding & Elopement Photographer: Mike Federis Photography

Brad & Breanna are the sweetest and most caring people I’ve ever met. They are also have amazing careers. Breanna is a nurse and Brad is an EMT. I’m so grateful for what they do an a daily basis and it was an honor for me to capture their wedding day.

Their wedding day took place at one of my favorite wedding venue’s in Temecula Valley, Churon Inn Winery. Churon Inn Winery does it all. They provide an all inclusive wedding package that takes care of everything from the the catering to coordinating your wedding day. In addition, they also have a enough rooms for your guests and family to stay over for during the wedding week.

Thank you again Brad & Breanna for trusting me to capture your most special day! Best wishes to both of you!

Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park Wedding Photography | Carlsbad, CA | Mario + Jennifer

MARIO + JENNIFER

Location: Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Ranch Park, Carlsbad, CA

Location: Lake View Park, San Marcos

Date: 04.09.2021

Wedding & Elopement Photographer: Mike Federis Photography

This is probably one of the most unique connections I’ve had with a couple in a long time. Mario found me through one of my instagram posts. We instantly realized we had a connection with my former roomie and fellow Marine, Dennis from Okinawa, Japan. What a small world and what are the chances this would happen!

Mario & Jennifer wanted to keep their wedding fairly small and intimate. We did their first look at Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park in Carlsbad, such a beautiful hidden treasure in Carlsbad. This Spanish style ranch was built in the mid 1980’s and continues be an asset to the local community for educational purposes. Look at for the local peacocks running around the park they can be very feisty!

Due to COVID, I was not allowed to be part of the civil wedding inside the San Marcos Accessor Building.

So we decided to photograph them after at Lake View Park and Discovery Lake in San Marcos. This is a beautiful park with a stunning lake! Also another hidden gem in San Diego.

Thank you so much again to Mario & Jennifer! Wish you all the best and looking forward to working with you guys in the future!

Odyssey Restaurant, Granada Hills, California Wedding Photography | Francis & Lence

FRANCIS + LENCE

Getting Ready Location: Warner Center Marriott Woodland Hills, California

Ceremony Location: Odyssey Restaurant, Granada Hills, California

Date: 10.24.2020

Wedding Photographer: Mike Federis Photography

Wedding Videographer: Ben Cruz

Wedding Coordinator: Grace Deguzman

DJ/MC: The Party Zone Entertainment

This blog post is way overdue and I’m super excited to share these wedding photos of Francis and Lence.

Francis and Lence found me through a SoCal Group from Facebook, and we all instantly hit it off since we were all filipinos. Filipinos all have a certain connection regardless if you are not technically related, but we joke that we are all cousins in a weird way LOL.

I started the day taking getting ready photos and details of Francis & Lence at the Warner Center Marriott in Woodland Hills. I usually like to get all the details photographed first and out of the way. Then, I move onto capturing individual portraits of the bride and groom. I love capturing the process of them getting ready and photographing little details (jewelry, Boutonnière, cards, rings, and anything that has sentimental value)

One of my favorite moments at the the Warner Center was the “First Look” I always recommend my couples to have first looks as it provides them an intimate moment all by themselves without family or friends. This provides them a few moments to really take it all in. Francis’ reaction once he turned around and saw Lence was magical! They both looked amazing!

After the first look, we took more photos with their bridal party and family in front of the Atrium. This is a pretty location for the first looks, individual portraits, and group photos.

We then all moved on to the Ceremony/Reception site at the Odyssey Restaurant in Granada Hills.

The Odyssey Restaurant has several options for hosting the ceremony and reception. Francis and Lence’s ceremony site would be in the outdoor courtyard with the beautiful gazebo.

Due to COVID, the wedding was limited to only a certain amount of guests. However, I think this was a blessing. From experience, I find smaller weddings to be more meaningful and intimate. The Bride and Groom has more time to connect with each person at the wedding.

The ceremony and reception was perfect! Everything was as smooth as expected. A huge thanks to Grace Deguzman for her role as the Wedding Planner/Coordinator.

Shoutout to Ben Cruz for also doing an amazing job as the Wedding Videographer. Francis & Lence wedding video is one of a kind:

Thank you again to Francis & Lence for the opportunity to be your Wedding Photographer! Hope we can get together one day and play badminton!

Q&A from the Wedding Couple:

What were some of your favorite photos of the wedding?

• The night shot at the back of the restaurant and the Veil shot.

What were the most memorable moments from your wedding?

• When I walked down the aisle and saw Francis crying 🤣- and when Francis saw me walking down the aisle

• When our pastor pronounced us as husband and wife

• When Francis grandmother gave us a message

• And of course the Photoshoot 😊

How was your overall experience with Mike Federis Photography?

• Like what we’ve said on our Yelp review. Mike Was able to photograph in such a MAGICAL WAY! Professional, fun and comfortable.

• YELP REVIEW: “We are so happy we found MIKE! I did a lot of research in trying to find a photographer that we will like at a price that we could afford. From the very beginning mike was excited as we were for our wedding day. He is very professional and communicative. He went through the timeline process with us to make sure that he could cater what we like. we were impressed with our experience. Not only did he helped able to open up and physically show our affection, but he was able to photograph in such a MAGICAL WAY! He made the whole experience fun and comfortable. If you want to capture your wedding perfectly, HIRE MIKE! You will not regret your decision.”

Big Bear Lake Elopement Photography | Rudy + Lieu

RUDY + LIEU

Location: Big Bear Lake

Date: 02.27.2021

Wedding Photographer: Mike Federis Photography

This blog is well overdue. I have so much respect for Rudy & Lieu. We initially had their post elopement session back in January, but we both ran into so much traffic it took us 3-4 hours just to get up to Big Bear Lake. So we all decided to reschedule the session for another month.

At the end of the day, it was so worth it! We were able capture some amazing photos on the north shore of Big Bear Lake. There are so many locations to choose from Big Bear Lake, but I prefer exploring the north shore of the lake. It is the best spot for sunset photos since the sun sets perfectly over the mountains.

My favorite locations are Juniper Point and the shore line to the west of Big Bear Lake Solar Observatory. These locations will provide with you with so much variety that you don’t have to go anywhere else!

Congrats again Rudy & Lieu!

Two Wishes Ranch Wedding | Lockhart, Texas | Justin & Suzana

JUSTIN + SUZANA

Location: Two Wishes Ranch, 3495 Rolling Ridge Rd, Lockhart, TX 78644

Date: 10.23.2020

Wedding Photographer & Videographer: Mike Federis Photography

Wedding Coordinator & Bartending: Stallworth Bartending and Event Services

I absolutely loved Justin & Suzana’s wedding in Texas! Scroll down if you can’t wait to see their photos and highlight video.

Here’s a link to their Engagement Session blog: Justin & Suzana’s Engagement Session

Their wedding was initially scheduled in July 2020, but COVID-19 forced them to postpone their wedding to October. I was super grateful that they were able to reschedule their wedding in 2020 despite all the obstacles and challenges.

10.22.2020: I flew in a day before the wedding from California to attend the wedding rehearsal and scout the wedding venue. Two Wishes Ranch is about a 30 minute drive from Austin Airport. They weren’t kidding when they call this place a ranch. The ranch is huge and consist of over 300 acres. They even have a section for polo games. The “Big Wish Barn” is absolutely stunning and surprisingly has a good amount of light that comes in from the windows. The Barn has a kitchen, bar section, and enough seating for over 100 guests. The chandelier located right in the middle of the barn is a beautiful touch. However, in my opinion, the best part of the barn is the large barn doors. The barn doors opens up to the well manicured ceremony site.

The ranch also includes a cottage for the bride and her bridesmaids, and a cabin from the groom. Both the cottage and cabins are gorgeous settings for taking portraits of the groom and bridal party.

10.23.2020: I loved every second of their wedding! Justin and Suzana looked absolutely amazing. Justin suited up in his Navy Officer Service Dress Blue Uniform and looked super sharp! While Suzana’s pearl white wedding dress was simple but elegant.

Thank you again to Justin and Suzana for trusting me to capture your wedding day. I wish you a lifetime of happiness and love!

Let’s Connect!

Lake Oak Meadows - Temecula, CA Wedding Photography | Rose + Louis

ROSE + LOUIS

Location: Lake Oak Meadows. 36101 Glen Oaks Rd A, Temecula, CA 92592

Date: 09.07.2020

Wedding Photographer: Mike Federis Photography

Wedding Videographer: Walter Arenas Media

Rose & Louis’ wedding is one of my favorite weddings in 2020, it was truly magical. Lake Oak Meadows is one of the best wedding venues in Temecula Wine Country. From the moment you park and walk down the beautiful steps, you will be inspired by its rustic country feel.

How I connected with Rose & Louis? I was contacted by my good friend Walter Arenas (Videographer) that the photographer for Rose & Louis’ wedding unfortunately backed out 7 days before the wedding day. I was totally in shock for the bride and groom, given the fact that their wedding was in 7 days and this is one the most important times in their lives. Without hesitation, I offered my services immediately and was willing to accept the challenge.

Rose and Louis are are truly an amazing and lovely couple. After learning more about their vision and story, I can’t believe the roller coaster of wedding plans they experienced in 2020. Nothing can stop this couple!

One of my favorite parts of the wedding was how they dressed up and incorporated their super cute olde English bulldog “Friday” What a cool name! #TGIF

I was so blessed that I was able to capture the entire wedding day for them, from the getting ready to their sunset portraits. Everyone from their friends and family were so nice and you can just tell from the photos that they are a close knit family. This was also the first time I experienced and captured a bride arriving at a ceremony in a horse and carriage. Seriously MAGICAL!

Thank you again Rose and Louis for trusting me to capture your Wedding! I wish you a lifetime of happiness.

Featuring Rose & Louis Wedding Teaser at Lake Oak Meadows Temecula, California. For more information, visit www.walteramedia.com

Are you ready to take the next steps? Let’s connect!

Aristide Wedding at Colleyville, TX | Jon + Renee | Mike Federis Wedding Photography

JON + RENEE’S WEDDING

Location: Aristide, Colleyville, Texas

Date: 09.05.2020

Wedding Photographer: Mike Federis Photography

Jon and Renee are one of the sweetest and adventerous couple I’ve ever met. I was super grateful that they chose me as their wedding photographer last year. And true to their nature, they chose one of the most epic locations for their engagement session - Glamis Sand Dunes in San Diego County (Engagement Gallery & Video)

Their wedding was originally scheduled in June 2020, but like so many other weddings they too had to reschedule their wedding date due to COVID. I was relieved that their wedding was still a go in 2020 and I was super excited to travel from California to Texas. Their wedding would take place at Aristide which is located in a tuscan style village in Texas. Aristide provides an all-in-one package, it has a stunning chapel with crystal chandeliers, groom and bride suites, charming tuscan courtyard, and grand ball room that can host upwards of 200 people.

Here’s some of the photos of their wedding day and a short highlight video. Congrats again to Jon & Renee! I look forward to connecting with you guys in the future and maybe joining ya’all in some of your adventures :)

The Clubhouse at Anaheim Hills Golf Course Wedding | Diane + Brian 07-17-2020

DIANE + BRIAN

Location:The Clubhouse at Anaheim Hills Golf Course

Date: 07.17.2020

Wedding Photographer: Mike Federis Photography

Wedding Venue: The Clubhouse at Anaheim Hills Golf Course is a beautiful wedding venue! This is a perfect space for small, quaint outdoor weddings in Orange County.

To Diane & Brian: Congratulations again to your small and intimate wedding! Thank you for trusting me as your wedding photographer. Hope we can all hangout sometime in the future! Cheers!

Are you ready? Let’s chat today and make it happen!

Wedding at Kellogg House at Cal Poly Pomona | Adrian & Maria

ADRIAN + MARIA

Wedding at the Kellogg House

Date: 03.07.20

Location:

• Kellogg House at Cal Poly Pomona,  3801 West Temple Avenue, Building 112 Pomona, CA 91768

Vendors:

• Photographer: Mike Federis Photography

Adrian and Maria was referred to me by my good friend Johnny. Adrian and Maria were already legally married and had 3 beautiful kids. However, life happened and they never had their chance for a church wedding. They had contacted me just 2 months away from the wedding and they were still in search for other wedding vendors. It was literally crunch time for them since they did not have enough time to plan everything out and they were on a budget.

I helped them as much as I could by connecting them with my preferred vendors. Luckily, they were able to find all their wedding vendors in time and make it work.

The wedding ceremony took place at St. Denis Catholic Church in Diamond Bar and the reception was at the beautiful hillside location of the Kellogg House at Cal Poly Pomona.

Kellogg House is stunning location which sits atop the hillside on Cal Poly Pomona. The venue provides privacy but gorgeous views at the same time. The venue coordinator and staff at the Kellogg House were exceptional. They were organized, prepared, and communicated with all the vendors.

Here’s some highlights from this beautiful wedding:

Glamis Sand Dunes | Engagement Photography Session | San Diego, California

Jon + Renee

Glamis Sand Dunes | Engagement Photography Session | San Diego, California

One of the best kept secrets in San Diego is the natural sand dunes of Glamis. Glamis is about 2 hours east of Downtown San Diego. It is very popular among ATV enthusiast looking to kick some sand around.

We drove from Chino Hills and it took about 3 hours on a Sunday evening. We decided to go to the Osborne Overlook (Osborne Park Rd, Brawley, CA 92227) and walk from there. The sand itself is unbelievably soft and grainy. Be prepared to get sand in between your toes. Parking is free and the sand dunes is literally right next to the parking lot. So if you’re not up for hiking this is the best spot for “non-hikers”

Photography Tips

• Arrive 1 hour before sunset to scout the area for the best dune

• Be prepared to get your gear dusty

• Use a wide and long lens for different perspectives

  Couple Tips

• Wear clothing that will be contrasty to the tan color of the sand

• Bride to be: wear a long dress to capture some epic shots