I met these two in Old Town last week for the first time. These two are so adorable together. The first thing I noticed is that Jose has this calm way of making Lilly feel at ease. She was giggling throughout the session, which was fun to watch and capture on camera.
They chose the perfect place for their engagement session, considering their wedding will be filled with lots of traditional Mexican decor.
Much love,
Daisy
I first met Amber and Kellen on their wedding day more than 3 years ago. They are are incredibly sweet together and I couldn’t be happier for this next phase in their lives.
I met them at their home in Carlsbad.
We then headed over to Batiquitos Lagoon.
Much love,
Daisy
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In November, I traveled back to my home town in central California. I always joke that I can smell my way into town. There’s a distinct smell when you’re passing all the dairy farms. It makes me cringe yet smile with a bit of giddiness knowing I’m going back to the place I once called home.
I enjoy spending time with my family – I feel like they bring out my inner dork the best. But one of the wonderful things I’ve been discovering is how beautiful this place actually is…especially in the Fall. Growing up in one place makes you almost blind to what’s in front of you. You’re always desiring to escape to far off places. I know I did. And this is why I appreciate this place, this little town in the middle of nowhere so much more.
On my way to a family shoot, I parked my car by a fence on a dirt road. The clouds were that gorgeous puffy white, swirly types [cumulus] – the kind that as a kid, you would point up and guess which animal shapes or objects they formed. Those clouds that make you stare in wander. I pointed my camera, not just at the sky but at the cows that wandered about in the field. I never took the time to notice them before, but I couldn’t help but watch them. I’m sure the other drivers that I was a bit crazy or odd for taking photos of cows that they pass by everyday, but today was a new day for me.
This is my niece, Destiny. She is beautiful.
White Top. One of the last few mom and pop restaurants in a sea of fast food chain drive-thrus.
Every time I’m in town, I go here.
As a kid, my mom would bring me, my sisters and my brother here for a shrimp basket and a banana split. An older German couple owned this restaurant for many years. Every time we came in, which was quite often, they would greet us with a smile and always asked to see how we were doing. That kind of genuine care and attention is so rare these days.
We stopped in with our little ones and it made my heart (and my tummy) happy.
Awww…it seemed like just yesterday we were running amok in this place and driving our mom crazy.
The next morning, as we were waking up, I captured a few frames of my family.
Adorbs.
Much love,
Daisy
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This year was full of new adventures, friends and LOTS of quality family time.
As a mom and a photographer, I try to document my family as much as possible. Childhood is so fleeting. I don’t want to miss one moment of theirs. I hope you get a glimpse of how truly special my family is!
Happy New Years, friends!
Daisy
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And last, but not least in my hometown family sessions is Apple and her two sons. She was my closest friend in Junior High. Even as awkward as that time was, I have so many great memories hanging out with this girl. Whether we were playing basketball, track, volleyball or softball together, playing flute in the school band, combing our hair in the girls bathroom, walking around in our Cowboys jackets, gossiping about boys during recess or sleeping over at each others’ houses, we always seemed to have a great time!
Fast forward a few years, and she is still the same confident, independent, “slightly” opinionated, smiley Apple. Her two sons, Julius and Blake, LOVE her and I couldn’t be happier for my friend.
Apple is an AMAZING mother! I’ve never seen a woman so involved – she never misses any of Julius’s games/practices and is unbelievably proud of him. Love.
Julius knows how to make his little brother laugh.
This little guy is so loved.
Thank you, Apple, for letting me hang out with you and your adorable little fellas!
Lots of love,
Daisy
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Kristen was another one of my good friends from Junior High. She was one of the most genuine, happy girls that I knew…and still is! Before her family session, I hadn’t seen her in 10 years! As soon as we got out of our cars, we squealed with delight! It’s as if time hadn’t passed. She’s still the same as I remember her…with a few little ones in tow. I had so much fun getting to know her family. She is so loved.
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Last weekend, I traveled to my hometown in Central California to visit family and photograph old friends of mine and their brood.
It was fun seeing Erica again…we go way back to Junior High. Erica and I played the same sports, shared the same friends…and even the same boyfriends. Hehe. Next year will be our 10 year High School reunion! Where does the time go?
I met her adorable 3 daughters and her hubby at her house. The light was beautiful that day.
Much love,
Daisy
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A couple of weeks ago, I got the pleasure of photographing baby T’s first birthday. It was a mini celebration filled with colorful balloons, singing, bubbles and happy tots!
Happy Birthday, Baby T!
Daisy
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I think one of the most valuable things you can expose your children to is art. Allowing them to think, create and play with their imaginations is important beyond belief.
As a child, I was constantly creating in some form. As a wee little kindergartner, I won my first coloring contest. In the years that followed, I often drew imperfect portraits of my friends and family. I started a novella which never saw the light of day. I remember going to the dollar store and buying $1 disposable cameras. As a teenager, I fell in love with music [composing/writing]. And during my last couple of years in high school, I discovered what would become an ongoing, ever evolving love and appreciation for photography. With all that in mind, it’s no surprise that I enjoy creating with my little ones. With an empty canvas and paint brush in hand, anything is possible.
Last month, I took the girls to the opening exhibit of TRASH at one of our favorite places, The New Children’s Museum. I love how this museum allows us to think about bigger issues from an artists’ viewpoint.
Words from their website [ www.thinkplaycreate.org ] —>
“The artists in TRASH each with differing prerogatives and intentions, share the common desire to draw attention to an invisible issue that increasingly dominates our lives. Did you know that in the United States, annual production of waste has tripled since 1960? That the average American produces 4.5 pounds of trash every day? In this exhibition, our mission is to change how we see trash, and changing perspective starts by asking more questions.”
I can only speak for myself when I say that art played a vital role in my development, growth, the way I perceive the world and I how I choose to live my life.
I know of so many schools who are getting rid of their Art programs and it makes me very sad to think that future students of those schools won’t be exposed to art on a regular basis.
Here’s a LINK to a video stating some reasons why art is important for kids.
Much love,
Daisy
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Last month, Sophia and I traveled to our first Girl Scouts camping trip at Whispering Oaks in Julian. We LOVE to camp so this weekend trip was a must. Aside from the crafty activities and endless amounts of hot cocoa and s’mores…this was valuable time with my daughter.
The raising and lowering of the flag at dawn and at dusk.
We hiked up to Inspiration Point and took a minute to appreciate nature.
The folks here call this shack “Mister Mister”.
Everyone slept in bunk beds!
What fun would eating s’mores be if it didn’t get all over your face?
I made this little fella. Cute, huh?
Unforgettable times…
Daisy
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As a kid, you’re anxious for this time of year when you can pick out your costume for Halloween. You talk amongst friends and share your costume choices and talk about how much sugary goodness your going to collect while trick or treating. The sun has set. You walk and yell out “trick or treat!” until you’ve exhausted your feet to the point of numbness. I remember those days fondly. One of the many awesome aspects of being a parent is being able to relive so many childhood experiences through our child[ren]. I looooove seeing the smile on my girls’ giddy faces, all dressed up in their princess attire [surprise, surprise] with one mission: candy!
I hope you all had a fun and safe Halloween!
Daisy
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This wedding was amazing in every sense. From the location in the midst of a walnut grove to the fun details to the incredibly vibrant bridal party and guests!
The moment I stepped into the Villa, where the girls were getting ready, I was blown away by Erica’s beauty. That girl is a stunner! And have I mentioned how much I love her red hair? Because I do.
Bridal Party of the Corn.
I smile every time I think of their ceremony. Sam and Erica are both talented writers. I had no doubt that their vows would be well written, witty and meaningful…but we were all surprised by Sam’s vow delivery. When he started singing his version of “Home,” it seemed as if everyone was beaming. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the crowd, including me. What was really cool was when the groomsmen jumped in and started singing too! It was one of the most touching things I have been fortunate enough to witness.
——>>>> To see more images from Sam + Erica’s wedding, please click on their SLIDESHOW below.
[[ Wedding Vendors ]]
Wedding Venue: Walnut Grove at Tierra Rejada Ranch
Coordinator: Michelle Spring of Mia Bella Weddings and Events
Pre-Ceremony Music: Subito Strings
Flip book Photobooth: A Little Scene Flip Books
DJ: Senor Amor
Videographers: Mada Weddings
Photographer: Daisy Varley
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Sam + Erica…thank you for trusting me with documenting your beautiful day. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know you both! I think you two are incredibly special…
Much love and happiness to you both!
Daisy
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This was an AMAZING Day!
More to come soon…
Daisy
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September 12, 2011
In Junior High, I discovered this little band of brothers who inspired me to play music [among other things]. I remember that moment, sitting in my living room, watching MTV and “Where’s the Love” came on. I was smitten. It wasn’t just a hormonal pre-teen crush, but a real eye opener. Throughout the following months, I learned every bit of info on Hanson and through this learning process, it hit me…I want to play music. And not just play it, but write and sing my own music. Thanks to school, I learned to play percussion and with the help of my best friend at the time, I learned to play guitar. Composing my own music gave the greatest thrill and joy. And I have Hanson to thank for that.
My first H concert going experience was fun, but this was completely different. Watching them live after all of these years was enjoyable. I could sit back [without screaming my head off] and just take it all in. I’m grateful for my pre-teen/teen years and wouldn’t take back my “teeny bopper” phase [even as obnoxious as I probably was to my mom] for anything. I’m happy that I can now look at Hanson and listen to their music with a whole new mind frame. And that goes the same for all my favorite artists and life in general. I love where I am now.
To all of my fellow H fans [both past + present], these photos are for you
MEIKO. This girl is just as adorable as her music!
Isaac.
Taylor.
Zac.
I love how close these brothers are.
At the end of the show, Zac jumped off his bass drum. An unexpected, pleasant surprise.
This is a random photo, but I loved ALL of the art on the walls and the ceiling.
Venue: House of Blues, San Diego
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It was about 100 degrees in San Diego that day. That was also the day we had a power outage all over So Cal and parts of Arizona and across the Mexican border. Craziness!
Thankfully, I had some fun visitors, including Baby Gwenevere. Isn’t she sweet?
Much love,
Daisy
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Last month, my family and I packed up our tent, sleeping bags, flashlights, bear spray [for me - I'm so paranoid], hiking boots and traveled back up to one of our favorite places in the world…Yosemite. It seems like every trip there is different and unexpected. This was our first time there in July. The water was plentiful and the animals were more present than ever. The water cascading over the falls and the river flowing alongside our campsite was stronger and more powerful. AND this was my first time actually seeing a bear in the wild! Eeeek! I was beyond excited!
Yosemite to me is this grand, untamed natural piece of earth that continues to amaze me with its beauty. I’ve been drawn to this place ever since 6th grade camp. After that experience, I knew I had to come back. Fast forward 6 years and it’s time to plan for Senior Prom. To be honest, back then I dreaded getting dressed up. I am a total jeans and shirt kinda gal and I still am, except I’ve grown to love summer dresses. So…I decided instead of going to Prom, I would go camping in Yosemite. And from that point, I just kept coming back and back. You know how some people have their “favorite spot”, that place that makes them feel alive and exhilarated. For me, it’s Yosemite.
Our good friends, The Yeums, met up with us. This was their first time there! I feel like a giddy kid when I’m traveling with friends who are experiencing Yosemite for the first time.
The Yeum girls were brave enough to swim in this freezing water. After about 5 minutes, it feels amazing! Seriously, there’s no other feeling like it. It almost feels like the water is rushing right through you and you feel SO rejuvenated.
Oh, Half Dome, you take my breath away.
Glacier Point has the best view of the valley.
S’mores!
The morning light was beautiful.
I love LOVE when the sunlight filters through the trees!
Bugs galore!
This girl cracks me up.
A couple of weeks prior, a tragic accident happened at the top of Vernal Falls. 3 hikers fell into the river and over the waterfall. They have yet to be found. On the day that we decided to hike up Vernal Falls, they had closed the Mist Trail for search and rescue efforts. Makes me sad when I hear stories like this.
The trail eventually opened, so we headed on up.
The falls were gorgeous! Everyone was completely soaking wet, hence the name “Mist Trail.” At one point, I had to hide my camera under my shirt to protect it from all the water pouring on us [No, I didn't bring adequate protection for it] It was crazy!
On the way back down, we noticed a rainbow, which never ceases to amaze me.
Until next year…
Daisy
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Charming location, adorable couple, lovely details…all made for a beautiful day!
I loved her dress!
The girls got their dresses from Anthropologie.
The maid of honor going over her speech on her iPad.
The pretty, smiling lady above is Shelley, Karen’s mom. She was Sophia’s AMAZING kindergarten teacher!
[[Wedding Vendors]]
Location: Darlington House
Caterer: Girard Gourmet
Florist: Bloomers
Band: Rockstreet
Photographer: Daisy Varley
Karen and Matt, thank you so much for allowing me to document and be apart of your day! I had so much fun…so many laughs all around.
Wishing you both lots of love and happiness together!
Daisy
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I am excited to share this video with all of you! I had such a great time in NYC. This is my interpretation of how I saw this city. Enjoy!
New York City [2011] from Daisy Varley on Vimeo.
Thank you to:
My beautiful friend, Cybil, for being my travel buddy/roomie
Sylvia, for meeting me across the country for a picnic in the park
and Anny for bringing sunshine and smiles wherever you go
Much love,
Daisy
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Let me preface this post by saying we had an amazing time the night before. We went to Greenwich Village [I believe] to a fun little jazz/blues club. I had a couple of mai tais and we danced and sang along to Miss Georgia Brown, the boisterous and soulful singer of the night. I felt like I was in an episode of Cheers! So much FUN! Unfortunately, that fun didn’t carry onto the next day as I woke up not feeling so…chipper. Nevertheless, Day 3 was wonderful!
We woke up, grabbed a cup of coffee and headed to Nolita, otherwise known as Little Italy. We met up with a group of people for the Nolita Food and Culture Walking Tour. For three house, we visited about 7 different yummy restaurants and learned a lot of fun info about Little Italy.
At this point, I say Ciao to my friends and head towards Times Square.
With a couple of hours to spare, I dip into Grand Central Station. Have you heard of it?
New York Public Library. My, you are beautiful.
Jersey Boys! Ah-MAZING!!!
Times Square.
The Naked Cowgirl. The fellas seem to really like her…
Right before midnight, Cybil and I met at the Rockefeller Center. The view at the Top of the Rock is breathtaking!
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9:30 p.m. on July 11, 2011, I received a call from my brother-in-law saying my sister, Christina, was in labor with my niece. Without hesitation, I raced to the hospital where I saw my sleeping nephew, Christian, in the corner and Jason beside Christina’s bed. I made it in time!
This is not the first birth that I photographed, Christina actually asked me three years ago to photograph Christian’s birth, which I will never forget. I am extremely blessed that my sister allowed me to witness the birth of her children. It’s very magical…the moments leading up to the pushing and when the baby finally makes its way out and let’s out its first cry. Magical.
Jason holding Christian in his arms. He loves his daddy so much.
Giving mommy lots of love and encouragement.
Oxygen for mommy = more oxygen for baby.
I was surprised to see Donna there! She is sophia’s good friend’s mom. I had known that she was a mid-wife, but I had no idea that she would be delivering my sister’s baby that night. So nice to see her smiling face there.
3:31 a.m.
Welcome little Natalia!
Cutting the umbilical cord.
Such a proud smile from daddy.
Eyes wide open.
Christian’s first time meeting Natalia. He was so curious about her.
This was a night…or shall I say morning, that I will always remember and look back on with smile. Natalia, I know I barely know you, but I love you so much! Can’t wait to see you grow and be the wonderful person I know you will be!
Much love,
Daisy
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“You may say I’m a dreamer
But I’m not the only one
I hope someday you’ll join us
And the world will be as one”
I have had these lyrics in my head since I left NYC. Our second day of our trip was memorable not only because we got to visit such popular sites such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and MOMA, but that day I realized that this city is full of talented, amazing artists from singers, musicians to painters. I was blown away…
We picked up some lunch at Whole Foods and brought it to Central Park for a little picnic.
I’m not usually a hot dog person, but for some reason I couldn’t get enough of them here.
Central Park is just what you’ve always imagined and more. I love that there’s so much to discover here. Playgrounds, pools, ponds, so many birds and beautiful trees that tower over you, people bathing in the sun…love.it.here.
The Mall.
The musicians above were performing “Imagine” by the Beatles. Beautiful…
Sheep Meadow. Perfect place for a picnic…and some singing.
Anny has the loveliest voice.
Anny’s friend, Greg sang and played for us as well. I loved watching and hearing them sing together. This was an afternoon I will never forget.
It started pouring down rain, but luckily we had MOMA to keep us dry and amused.
Check back later for photos from Day 3.
Much love,
Daisy
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I had been eagerly anticipating the day I would see NYC in person. This was my first real vacation away from my family and work in a long time. Yes, I was a little uneasy about saying goodbye, but I think we all need a little break, ya know? A couple of weeks before my trip I watched educational shows like Sex & the City and lots of movies that were filmed in NYC. And so after educating myself, I compiled a “little” list. Here are a few items of which I had to see or do:
Hear/watch live jazz music [check!]
Hear a real NY accent [check!]
Eat a NY hot dog and a slice of pizza [LOTS of checks! lol!]
Go see a broadway musical [check!]
And a real weird one…see a NY rat [check!] We saw one down in the subway. Why was this on my list? I couldn’t tell ya.
The list went on and on, but the cool thing was all of the unexpected little adventures that we had, which really made it a memorable trip.
My good friend, Cybil, was able to join me [yay!] and off we went! Here are the photos I took while walking throughout this wonderful, bustling city on our first day.
I heard great things about the High Line, so I knew I had to check it out. Looooved it!
In the photo above to the right, you’ll notice where the old tracks used to be. I love that they didn’t waste this precious property and really turned it into something beautiful, a place where people can come to relax.
After leaving the High Line, we walked by this park where kids can run through this tunnel-like structure that sprayed water. I’m not sure if you’ve ever been to the city during the summer, but it was HOT! My first thought while seeing water was LET’S RUN THROUGH IT!! And so we did. We were all soaking wet and let me just say, it was wonderful!
After all that walking and running, we got a little hungry so we headed to Chelsea Market.
We had finally gotten dry and just our luck it started pouring down rain. Once again…wonderful and very unexpected! I loved it!
We headed to Cybil’s friend, Anny’s apartment to get dry. Her place is just as adorable as she is.
We walked through Washington Park. Made me all kinds of happy to see kids splashing around in the fountain. Isn’t this what summer is all about?
The 5-year-old vs. the older dude. I’m betting on the one to the left.
Bikes everywhere! Hmmm…wonder if they bought this nifty cover on etsy?
The Brooklyn Bridge.
Ground Zero. So sad to think that this is where that horrific event took place almost 10 years ago. I can’t even begin to comprehend what these people went through on that day.
This was only day one. I have many more photos from my trip, so please stay tuned.
Much love,
Daisy
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Today, I will be saying goodbye to San Diego and hopping on a plane to New York. It’s my first trip to the Big Apple and I’m beyond excited!
In other fun news, this past week, we said hello to the newest little baby girl of the Smith family, Gwenevere. She looks so much like her big sisters. So adorable!
I love it when they smile in their sleep.
We’ve had so much fun hanging out with Becky and her girls! Her husband, Matt, is the pastor at Barabbas Road Church in San Diego.
So happy to meet you, baby G! Looking forward to seeing you grow throughout the years…
Much love,
Daisy
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06.18.11
These two are incredible. I have such a great amount of respect and adoration for Nicole and Dan. Hearing their story made me realize that good things come from bad experiences. They met during a dark time in their lives and are now stronger than ever.
Their ceremony was a testament to their love for each other and the journey that they experienced together. It was one of the most thoughtful ceremonies I have been lucky enough to witness. They thanked so many individuals who have been a major part of their lives. They included a tree and asked the guests prior to their wedding to donate soil from their own gardens so that they may add all the soil together to help build the foundation for their future. As the ceremony went on,the rings were passed around to the guests, who each prayed and sent well wishes in silence. It was unique and very special.
And to top it off, the wedding was held in the gorgeous community of St. Malo in Oceanside. Some of the most beautiful homes reside here and it was super fun to explore a few of them throughout the day. I hope you enjoy these images…
Nicole, you are stunning.
I loved her long veil!
——>>>> To see more images from Nicole and Dan’s wedding, please CLICK HERE FOR THE SLIDESHOW!
[[ Wedding Vendors ]]
Wedding Venue: St. Malo Beach, Oceanside
Coordinator: Melissa Barrad of I Do…Weddings!
DJ: Tony Slater
Videographer: Joey Aguilera
Florist: Passion Flower Studios
Cake: Extraordinary Desserts
Catering: The Abbey Catering
Photobooth: Mobile Photobooth
Photographer: Daisy Varley
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Nicole and Dan, at the end of the night I said to you that you two are perfect for each other and I truly meant it. I don’t say that very often. After getting to know you, I really feel like you were meant to find each other. Thank you for letting me be apart of your special day!
Much love and happiness to you both!
Daisy
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Ever come across two people you just know were meant for each other? Who challenge, comfort and make each other want to be a better person? Meeting Nicole and Dan, you just know…
Much love,
Daisy
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06.04.11
Where do I begin? I got an email from a girl, wondering if I could photograph her wedding, which happened to land on my birthday. Initially, I said no, but her following email really struck a cord with me. Her warmth and kind-hearted nature had shown right through her words. I knew I had to say yes. Gem and Lake are two of the sweetest [and hilarious] people I have been lucky enough to meet and now know.
Their wedding was full of beauty, charm and so much personality! They had games such as Gumboot Throw and Croquet, which was a perfect tribute to the guests who traveled from the UK and New Zealand, a place Gem used to call home.
Gem and Lake felt something immediate the first moment they laid eyes on each other. And you can feel the love that they have for each other every time you’re in their presence. I believe that every person at their wedding can attest to that. They are incredibly special.
Yes, that is a mustache on her face [below]. Gem and Lake placed mustaches on each of the guests’ chair to wear right after the ceremony. Awesome? I think so!
You two make me giggle…
A photobooth with props and an instax camera! Love it!
A gorgeous cake made out of Gem’s favorite…cheese!
As if the toasts weren’t touching enough…
…they had to go and surprise me and Gem’s dad [we both share the same birthday] with a cake, a present AND a happy birthday song! It was incredibly thoughtful, kind and emotionally moving, for me at least. Even though I dread tearing up in front of others, I couldn’t help it. This was their big day and yet, they took time out to celebrate our birthdays. That says SO much about Gem and Lake and the kind of people that they are. Thank you both so much! It meant a lot…
The California Honeydrops – amazing!
——>>>> To see more images from Gemma and Lake’s wedding, please CLICK HERE FOR THE SLIDESHOW!
[[ Wedding Vendors ]]
Wedding Venue: The Condor’s Nest Ranch
Coordinator: Lisa Doherty of the Condor’s Nest Ranch
DJ: Jake of the Condor’s Nest Ranch
Band: The California Honeydrops
Florist: Rae Florae
Photographer: Daisy Varley
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I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again…you two are simply amazing.
Much love to you both!
Daisy
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We’ve known the Ghoellers for a couple of years now. They’ve become good friends of ours. When they told me they were expecting their 3rd child, I was ecstatic! Three adorable girls…they are truly blessed.
Meet the Ghoeller girls —–>
Gracie [one month]
Sophie [Four]
Kaley [Six]
Much love,
Daisy
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These two are unique and special in so many ways….and their wedding was a total reflection of who they are. Can’t wait to share more images from this beautiful wedding…
Much love,
Daisy
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I loved playing sports growing up. In junior high, I got to play first base in softball. My nickname back then was “Legs” – go figure! As soon as we heard they were having sign-ups for softball, I asked Sophia if she wanted to give it a shot and she said yes! Woot! I was thrilled. She had so.much. FUN! Not only did she learn the awesome game of softball, she also learned how to work together and play like a team. She made friends with some amazing girls! And of course I just had to take a “few” photos and videos.
Go Pink Panthers!
Navajo Girls Softball from Daisy Varley on Vimeo.
p.s. Coach Jamie – you ROCK!
Daisy
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Last Sunday, the family and I headed to California Adventure [our first time] for a little pre-birthday celebration for moi. I took all of the images with my iPhone, which really allowed me to relax and have a good time. And we totally had a good time!
Much love,
Daisy
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Gianna turned 2 last week so we decided to throw her a party with her 2 favorite characters, Dora and Diego. And well, because we love Mexican food and we all love a good time, we decided to make it a Fiesta! We had banners, maracas, fun latin music, a pinata, sombreros and mini mustaches!
Okay…maybe I got a little carried away with the sombreros and mustaches. But look how CUTE these kids are!
Limbo!
Look at the expression on her face – MAJOR concentration!
A gigantor Dora pinata!
Ole!
Daisy
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I love anything handmade. And so, I was on the hunt for some cool cd sleeves. Then the thought came to me, “why not make them myself?” So I did. I chose to use one my favorite material, burlap. Each disc(s) will be packaged with love, attention and detail. It does take a bit of time, but I think it’s so worth it! Hope you like them.
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What an amazing experience to watch Prince William and Kate say their vows in front of their family, friends and many people across the globe. Their wedding ceremony was at the Westminster Abbey, a beautiful church in London, England.
On a sentimental note, I remember watching Prince William and Prince Henry with their mother Princess Diana when they were just little boys. Like many people, I’ve seen them grow into amazing, respectable men. It makes me so happy to see the oldest take this next step in his life. I’d like to think that Princess Diana is looking down from heaven, gleaming with pure love for her son and his new wife. As a mother, you hope for only the best for your children and I couldn’t be happier for the Prince and his new wife.
Here’s a recap video of their marriage vows earlier this morning:
Prince William and Kate make such an adorable couple and I wish them lots of love and happiness together!
Daisy
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I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter, whether it was attending church, decorating eggs and hunting for them, eating peeps and other chocolate goodness or just hanging out with friends and loved ones. Hope your day was joyous!
This was a fun Easter because Gianna was finally old enough to go egg hunting. I love my little bunnies.
Their Nana brought some awesome goodies like this magnifying glass.
Much love,
Daisy
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To say that I’m a lucky girl is an understatement.
Gem + Lake are a great reminder of why I love my job. Two individuals in love, who make each other laugh til their bellies ache, are both passionate about life and who truly care about each other.
We had SO much fun during their engagement session! These two earned major points by:
1. laughing at my corny jokes/statements [Jack Black, you better watch out]
2. Looking super cool while shadow fighting [that's no easy task]
3. Sharing a love of antiques, thrift stores and treasures in the alleyway
4. Hiring a band to perform at their wedding
5. Riding ponies to school
6. Speaking a really cool foreign accent [and attempting an American accent]
7. and lots more…
And so it begins…
These two are shadow ninjas! I tried to make sure my shadow didn’t interfere in this fierce battle.
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I learned a lot about these two including they both love romantic comedies, he loves to cook and she likes to eat what he cooks AND he massages her feet. I was a little distracted during the session because we laughed a lot. Now looking through these images, I noticed how lovingly Dan looks at Nicole. They are incredibly sweet together.
Much love,
Daisy
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I look back on my childhood with fond memories. Growing up in a primarily rural area, I spent ninety-percent of my time outdoors. Wading in the rivers, climbing trees, playing cowboys and indians, walking through fields, building forts and so on. My best friend was my imagination.
The series of images below reminds me so vividly [and I'm sure so many of you can relate] of what it is like to be filled with a hunger for adventure, to be carefree, happy …to just be a kid.
Having daughters, I get to relive that precious time in my life all over again. It’s amazing.
Much love,
Daisy
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A couple of weeks ago, we took a trip up to our family cabin in Big Bear. This was a special trip because this was the first time that the girls truly bonded. They were inseparable the whole weekend. Running, laughing, playing games. It was so so wonderful to watch.
Having two sisters, I know no matter which direction life leads us, we’ll always be there for each other… even when we’re at a rocky point in our relationship, frustrated because your sister knows how to push your buttons better than anyone else or even just giving each other the silent treatment, we’ll always drop whatever we’re doing to be there, especially when we need each other the most.
Sisters from Daisy Varley on Vimeo.
Much love,
Daisy
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I love the fact that these two drove all the way from Tempe, Arizona for their engagement session, a perfect time to get to know each other before their big day. I am excited for their wedding at the Darlington House this Summer!
This dog was really cool.
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I had SO much fun photographing and hanging out with my photog friend, Gabrielle, her fiance, Ryan, and their adorable [super energetic] dog, Rocky!!! Check back later for more photos from this session…
Hope everyone had a wonderful [and safe] Thanksgiving!
Daisy
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Have I mentioned how much I [heart] this family? Because I do…I really, really do
Much love,
Daisy
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I’m so thrilled that Summer of GreyLikesWeddings chose to feature Jaclyn + James’ wedding, which was at the beautiful St. Malo, a private residential community in Oceanside.
Thank you to Summer and Kerrie for the feature!
Much love,
Daisy
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Last week in San Diego, it rained everyday, causing many floods. For some it’s inconvenient, but for me it’s…wonderful! I love wearing my rain boots, opening the windows to bring in the fresh air and hearing the sound of the rain dropping on the pavement, running down the drains, or watching the ripples in the mud water. I think I value it even more because it doesn’t rain very often here in So Cal, so when it does, I totally appreciate it. And besides, who doesn’t love green grass?
A Rainy Day from Daisy Varley on Vimeo.
The video above was taken with my 5D MKII. *Please excuse my amateurish editing*
Much love,
Daisy
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Happy New Year, friends!
I can’t help but think what a great year 2010 was. It almost seems as though it went by within a blink of an eye. So many memories… I wish I could slow time for just a bit. I’m trying to document more, mostly with photographs, but with more and more videos.
I’ve compiled a collection of video clips taken throughout last year. I hope you enjoy watching it.
Looking Back on 2010 from Daisy Varley on Vimeo.
I hope 2011 brings you many great opportunities, amazing adventures and lots of happy moments with your loved ones.
Much love,
Daisy
[The videos above were taken with my Canon 5DMkII]
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I spent a week in paradise and I cannot wait to share more images with you…
[image above photographed by my wonderful husband. <3]
Daisy
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Waikiki Beach. Sunrise…
John and I hiked to Manoa Falls. Beautiful! Totally looks like scenes right out of the show LOST.
We went to a luau and got Polynesian tattoos.
We also went cage diving with Galapagos sharks!!!
The above image was taken with John’s Olympus point + shoot at the North Shore. I love the grainy film feeling of this image.
We hiked with our friends the Coalsons to Maunawili Falls. Absolutely breathtaking. One of the most memorable moments was during the hike back when it started pouring rain. It was really muddy, so were slipping and sliding a lot. It was perfect. An experience I’ll never forget.
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I think I filmed more footage from our trip than I photographed. I’m falling more and more in love with my camera and it’s video capabilities…so much fun!
I hope you enjoy!
Oahu, Hawaii [2011] from Daisy Varley on Vimeo.
[some of the footage was filmed with an olympus point + shoot]
Mahalo!
Daisy
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I am not afraid to admit that I’m not a huge fan of V-day. I’m not into the flowers, although the chocolates aren’t bad…I think love should be celebrated everyday!
There are many things I claim to “love,” but here are two things I truly love —->
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Last Sunday, my sister, Christina and I traveled up to one of my favorite wedding venues in Southern California, The Condor’s Nest Ranch [Thank you Lisa + Bob for being great hosts!].
We ate, we mingled, we wandered around and ate some more! So much fun!
We have fun whenever I bring my camera, so we took this opportunity to take a few photos at this beautiful location. Isn’t she a natural? And notice the bump? She’s 18 weeks preggo
Much love,
Daisy
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One of the best parts of my “job” is getting to meet incredible people, such as these two. I am naturally curious about people, so getting this opportunity to get to know them was wonderful. We talked about their love of writing, comedies and life. I chimed in with my love for Jack Black [the guy has me laughing til my belly aches].
Erica really wanted to shoot in a place with cool architecture, so Balboa Park was a natural choice.
Doesn’t she sort of resemble a certain 80s actress?
These two are so adorable and I am super stoked to be photographing their wedding in September!
Much love,
Daisy
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Much love,
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