Journal

THE

Melissa + Allen | Ranch Wedding | Chico Wedding Photographer

Sometimes, like Rihanna would say, we find love in a hopeless place. Either that or we aren’t looking for love when it turns up right before our eyes. And sometimes when we don’t know it’s right before our eyes, love can grow over time. Let’s just say love works in very mysterious ways.

Melissa wasn’t expecting to meet Allen the day she was over at her best friends house, lounging by the pool. She was there to enjoy herself and didn’t have ‘meeting guys’ on her mind. Allen, however, thought Melissa was the most beautiful woman he had ever laid eyes on and was persistent about getting to know her. Finally, Melissa gave Allen a chance and they went on their first date. At the end of the date, after walking Melissa to her car, Allen put the song “Sweet Melissa” on and they danced in the parking lot. That was the moment she knew this guys was a good one. 
Melissa and Allen tied the knot on a beautiful private ranch that backs up to the Sacramento River in Orland near Chico, California. Melissa has a gorgeous daughter Kendal, whom they incorporated very nicely into the wedding.  Melissa and Allen have been together for 5 years exactly, marrying on the day of their 5 year anniversary. 

This is Melissa’s daughter Kendal. Fun fact about her? She plays fast pitch softball. Boom.

Melissa, I can see why Allen couldn’t let you get away. You are stunning!

Melissa and Allen opted to do the first look. It was a beautiful moment for the two of them to enjoy…

After we did the first look, we took some bridal party photos in the gorgeous walnut tree orchard.

Not before a quick hair and makeup check šŸ™‚ 

This is Melissa’s daughter. It warms my heart SO much looking at the photo of Kendal and Allen. So much love šŸ™‚

THESE TWO! šŸ™‚

Last September I photographed Brittany and Laine’s wedding. Brittany was Melissa’s Maid of Honor and now she’s preggo!! So incredibly happy and excited for her and Laine.

Now back to these two lovebirds…

He makes her happy.

Loved Melissa’s pop of color choice šŸ™‚

 Some detail shots…

Allen loves to hunt so they tied that into the details on the table.

Melissa arrived in a beautiful classic car…

After the ceremony, we HAD to get some photos with the car..

The reception was filled with laughter during the toasts and more love during their first dance, and a whole lotta fun!

The ambiance of the venue they made up was absolutely perfect. 

One final image as the sun sets…

Melissa and Allen I cannot thank you enough for allowing me to be a part of your big day. It was such a blast and I wish you two all the best. -R

Big shout out to my 2nd photographer Kim for assisting me šŸ™‚

Venue: Private ranch in Orland
Cake: Friend of the Bride
Photography: Ryan Greenleaf Photography
DJ: The Wedding DJ Company
Florist: M Creations

comments +

  1. […] you how much I cherish this photo and how honored and humbled I feel to have documented (from left) Melissa + Allen, now Kory + Eric, and Nicole + Joe. I love you all. […]

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