Blanca and Juan
Let’s just get it out there. I was nervous. I mean, extremely nervous. Blood pressure spiking kind of nervous. My shoots have always been merely for fun, to explore and for the thrill of trying to create something new. But actually being offered to shoot an engagement session and subsequently a wedding? I was completely unprepared until I learned the morning of..they would be picking me up from my house?
From the moment I stepped into their car, buckled on my seatbelt, I knew I was absurd for being so worried. For meeting two complete strangers, it sure felt like we’ve known each other for a lot longer. From the jokes we tossed around to Juan’s appall that I’ve actually been to the Great Wall of China, it was almost like catching up with old friends I haven’t seen in a long time.
For the shoot, they wanted to return to a place that’s always been like home: Olvera St. To my surprise, it’s conveniently located a couple of blocks from Chinatown, a place I know all too well. Home to the oldest house in Los Angeles, one of the original churches in LA, streets full of stalls and Mariachi emanating from every corner, I know why it felt like home to them.
After spending an afternoon with Blanca and Juan, it’s no surprise that they’ve been together for such a long time. 13 going on 14 years! That's incredible. Can’t wait to see you guys again in June.
A special thanks to Erick and Erica for coming along for the ride. And Juan, I’m taking you to Chinatown next time, my hood.
Location: Olvera St., Union Station
DCHU Photography
