Jessica was the L.A. party girl and Derek was the shy student from Singapore. They met at USC’s dental school and after a few study sessions they found love where they never imagined it would come from. Unfortunately though, Derek still has some issues with Jessica’s adorable dog Max. Although, I am sure in time Derek’s heart will grow to appreciate Max in time. Derek and Jessica took us out for a tour of South Pasadena and I instantly fell in love. I’m definitely looking forward to their wedding in October which will take place entirely on a boat.

Francis, Johanna, and I started our journey together late afternoon at four and before I knew it I was giving them hugs and saying goodbye close to ten at night. I don’t think I ever had such a strong connection during an engagement session.

These two are truly a blessing to be around. Both their love for each other and their story are inspirational, which is why they wanted me to capture their reenactment of their first date through my lens. Their epic first date began at the (delicious) Filipino restaurant and bakery, Goldilocks, and ended up with Francis calling in sick from work so he could spend the night with Johanna at a friend’s party. Francis worked a graveyard shift right before the date, so when the day was over he had been awake a full twenty four hours. Talk about a memorable day.

Thank you so much for the hospitality Johanna and Francis. We need to make a trip down to Zenko soon