Susie Hamidi Photography

Ben and Beth

2012-01-05T11:49:00.000-08:00

Mark and Eriene

2011-03-27T07:48:00.000-07:00

The backs of these beautiful photographs read, "In lieu of traditional wedding favors, a generous donation has been made to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and The Global Fund for Children."

Ceremony: St. Mary Coptic Orthodox Church
Reception: The Park Savoy
Second Photographer: Jeff LaPlante (May I never travel or shoot without you! My great thanks for your talent and friendship always!)

The Knot Ultimate Wedding Lookbook

2011-03-10T15:01:00.000-08:00

Excited to be published in The Knot Ultimate Wedding Lookbook! Thank you!

Tom and Christine

2011-03-04T16:32:00.000-08:00

Venue: Stimson-Green Mansion

Winter Wedding

2011-02-14T16:09:00.000-08:00

Wedding Venue: Saint Mark's Cathedral
Second Photographer: John Huson (Thank you!)

Pastels

2011-01-28T21:50:00.000-08:00

Venue: The Woodmark Hotel
Planner: La Belle Soiree Event Planning

Orchards

2011-01-20T11:12:00.000-08:00

My shoot was over. My gear was packed in my car except for one body and lens. I decided to walk around the orchard to unwind before my 3 hour drive back to Seattle. Orchards! They are even more romantic at dusk. Meandering led to a dilapidated barn with rusted machinery strewn about. No signs of recent life. I felt sad. Then, around the back, my surprised eyes looked up and found this sweet, happy heart.

Devin and Erin

2011-01-11T20:40:00.000-08:00

Wedding Venue: The Woodmark Hotel and The Skansonia Ferry
Second Photographer: Jeff LaPlante (Always wonderful to shoot with you! Thank you!)

Seattle Bride Magazine

2010-09-13T02:36:00.000-07:00

Always an honor to be featured. Thank you Seattle Bride.

Griff and Maria

2010-09-09T12:53:00.000-07:00

Seattle Met Bride & Groom

2010-07-22T14:23:00.000-07:00

Thank you Seattle Metropolitan Bride & Groom for featuring my work in 2008 and 2009. And, thank you to my brides and grooms for their beautiful weddings.

Micah and Jenny

2010-02-22T22:22:00.000-08:00

View the Slide Show

One of the favorites of the day. Jeff's image below.

Wedding Venue: Semiahmoo Resort
Second Photographer: Jeff LaPlante (Always, always amazing! Thank you!)
Band: The Paperboys (Fabulous! Must see!)

Mike and Nisa Basilicato

2010-02-07T21:54:00.000-08:00

View Mike and Nisa's wedding SLIDE SHOW.

Second Photographer: John Huson (Thank you for your talent and support. Great working with you!)
Wedding Venue: Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church
Reception Venue: DeLille Cellars

One of my favorites of the day: John's photo below.

Connecticut Wedding Reception

2010-01-11T23:00:00.000-08:00

Venue: Wadsworth Mansion

Kim and Ken Engagement

2009-11-19T13:35:00.000-08:00

View Kim and Ken's slide show.

Adam and Sherrie

2009-10-28T21:36:00.000-07:00

Kim and Theo

2009-07-28T09:48:00.000-07:00

View Kim and Theo's wedding slide show

Spend any time with these two and you'll know their wait for each other was well worth it. They are giddy in love. Theirs was a winter wedding, just three weeks after Seattle was hit by a blizzard, yet the sun was out in full glory and it felt like Springtime. I think even nature was moved by Kim and Theo's union!

Of course I have a huge heart for Orthodox ceremonies, and this one was made even more special since Theo's father has served as the priest of St. Demetrios for decades. How moving to watch Fr. John officiate the wedding of his son! Theo's uncle (also a priest) came over from Greece to participate in the service. It was beautiful!

Congratulations and may God grant you many years!

Again, my deep thanks to Jeff LaPlante for second shooting for me!

Malia and Ben

2009-04-09T02:32:00.000-07:00

View Malia and Ben's wedding SLIDE SHOW.

Malia and Ben celebrated their marriage on New Year's Eve. What a great day with great people! Ceremony at Blessed Sacrament and reception at the historic Arctic Club Hotel. Malia and Ben were all smiles, affection and appreciation. It is so touching to see how Ben looks at Malia with such love and warmth. Malia is SO beautiful, it is hard to take your eyes off her. And, she has one of the biggest hearts to match.

Congratulations to you both and thank you for letting me share in your day and memories!

My huge thanks to Jeff LaPlante who second shot for me. You're the best!

View Malia and Ben's wedding SLIDE SHOW.

Allyssa and Steven | Bainbride Island

2008-11-25T23:45:00.000-08:00

Celebration! is what I think of when I reflect on Allyssa and Steven's wonderful day (even with the rain!). Preparations and reception were held at Allyssa's parents' beautiful home. Before leaving for the ceremony held at Grace Episcopal Church, the wedding party started partying: singing and dancing and celebrating.

Some of the highlights: the gospel choir. Yes, they really did sing "Going to the Chapel." Just perfect! And, the sweet, expressive relationships Allyssa shares with her parents, sister, grandparents (and doggies). And, the walk down to the family pond where guests made a wish and set their candles afloat (often with a little help from the kids). And of course, Allyssa's fabulous Luly Yang gown.

Jeff LaPlante photographed the day with me. Thank you, Jeff! Always great to work with you! You add so much to the event and coverage.

View Allyssa and Steven's SLIDE SHOW.

View Allyssa and Steven's SLIDE SHOW.

Kristy and Dan | Walla Walla

2008-11-13T12:12:00.000-08:00

I knew I just had to photograph Dan and Kristy's wedding. They have a magical connection - a real energy that draws you in - feels like you're being wrapped up in their love. You can't help but want to be with them.

Dan and Kristy hosted their weekend celebration in wonderful Walla Walla. We had that gorgeous western Washington light everyday. Rehearsal dinner was held at 26 Brix, once the Dacres Hotel: the largest hotel in Washington Territory in 1873. The wedding day was spent at Areus: inn and yoga retreat. Views of mountains, golden rolling hills and vineyards... The sunset was amazing and we had a full moon! I must share just one of the many special details of the wedding: Kristy's something borrowed and blue - her garter - was worn by both her mother and sister on their wedding days.

Melissa Bryan of Lush Parties and Events was their coordinator. Everything was beautiful! I loved the succulents driven in from Texas. And the wonderful Sharlane Chase photographed with me. Shar, thank you for all your support over the weekend. Truly a pleasure working with these two artists together!

Congratulations Dan and Kristy!

Lauren and Bob | Roche Harbor

2008-11-04T02:13:00.001-08:00

The union of the Seattle Tindalls and the NY Croccos! It was an amazing celebration of love and family at the beautiful Roche Harbor Resort. September turned out to be the best month of the year for sunshine, and we were blessed with a perfect, warm weekend on San Juan Island.

There were so many special details: the rehearsal dinner BBQ, the surprise bagpiper at the conclusion of the ceremony, the reception tent right on the water, the band, the seafood, seaplane departure... Every toast was heartfelt. The JOY was overflowing...

Lauren and Bob, congratulations! You're amazing individually and even more so together! I wish you could keep getting married and that I could keep photographing you!

Again, a big thanks to the wonderful Sharlane Chase who photographed with me and added her beautiful images and presence!

Travis and Jesse of True Colors Events were Lauren and Bob's wedding planners and David of Rented Elegance provided the decor. We had a great team!

Visit Lauren and Bob's slide show.

Kim and AJ | Philipino Wedding

2008-10-24T20:07:00.000-07:00

It could only have been a perfect wedding day with Kim and AJ. They're beautiful, expressive, super fun, and so in love! They celebrated a traditional Filipino Catholic mass (I always love the cord ceremony) at the beautiful chapel of Holy Names Academy, and they had hundreds of amazing people supporting them. One of my favorite moments was witnessing AJ's excitement just before Kim entered the sanctuary. He was literally bouncing with joy in anticipation. And, their first meeting was so sweet - such tenderness and tears of happiness. It was also really special to see the genuine affection their priest has for them.

Kim and AJ created one of the most impressive wedding Web sites that I've seen. The best part is the video of their actual proposal.

Thank you for asking me to be part of your engagement and wedding! Congratulations you two! A big thanks to Sharlane Chase for shooting with me. Always great fun and photography.

Visit Kim and AJ's wedding slide show.

Jill and Mike

2008-09-27T09:15:00.000-07:00

We met in late August of 2007. A few weeks later, Jill, Mike and I left Seattle for New York City. Could there be many better places than Central Park for an engagement session? It was amazing! And, unusually hot in NYC that weekend. High 80s in October?! I think it was a sign of things to come... Jill and Mike were married in Seattle on one of the hottest days of the year. It was in the 90s, and Seattle residents only see the 90s on an average of three times a year. So, we were really HOT. But, it was a gorgeous, cloudless day. And, we had one of the best views in the city: the Olympics, the Sound and the Seattle skyline. The evening was perfect and included wonderful toasts, a Scottish bagpiper at sunset, a great band and one of my very favorite cakes - ever.

Jill and Mike incorporated some of Seattle's most beautiful architecture into their wedding celebration. Preparations at The Farimont Olympic Hotel, ceremony at the Chapel of St. Ignatius for their beautiful Coptic Orthodox service, and reception at The Golf Club at Newcastle. This combination is difficult to match.

Jill is such an elegant woman, and Mike is a true gentleman. A very refined and classy couple. And, what a fun wedding party!

Congratulations Jill and Mike - on your marriage and your new life together in Philly! I appreciate you both so much.

Here are a few of my favorites.

Oona and Jamey (and Willa)

2008-09-05T00:10:00.000-07:00

Destination: Tofino, British Columbia. This was my second time to beautiful Tofino. If you've never been, it's definitely worth the 12-hour drive!

The weather (will it rain?) is always such a big issue in the Pacific Northwest. This weekend was no different as we had torrential downpours three days before the wedding. We were blessed with not only no rain on the day of, but the clouds disappeared about 45 minutes before the beach ceremony. The sun graced us the rest of the day!

Oona and Jamey, congratulations! It was so special to witness your marriage, your sweet affection and the immense love that binds your family. We'll never forget the words of your ceremony, the poetry, the singing, the arbor made by your brothers, and of course Willa, who stole our hearts.

Oonie, I couldn't be more happy for you!

Here are a few of my favorites from the day.

Jodie and Brian

2008-08-26T20:52:00.000-07:00

July 4, 2008 at the lovely Sorrento Hotel. I had the pleasure of second shooting for Sharlane Chase at the wedding of Jodie and Brian. Their tears of joy at first sight of one another were only a prelude. Grateful tears were shared all evening. What a celebration! Thank you for inviting me Shar!

Here are a few of my favorite images from the day.

Jamie and Chris

2008-08-22T22:49:00.000-07:00

June 21. The first day of summer in sweet Walla Walla. Jamie and Chris had a beautiful destination wedding at Basel Cellars. Even the looming storm couldn't dampen our spirits. Fortunately the rain held off until after the first dance. Jamie was gorgeous - in person and in her boudoir photos (by Stephanie Cristalli) presented in an album to Chris before the ceremony. What a surprise and great moment! One of my favorite details of the day was Jamie's gown. She wore a Vera Wang that played so romantically with the light. Congratulations Jamie and Chris!

A big thanks to Savanah Rae Kent for giving up her weekend to shoot with me. Your images are always so beautiful.

View the Slide Show.

Amy and Kent

2008-08-13T15:20:00.000-07:00

What a perfect day at The Edgewater! The sun, the Sound, and a great couple. It was truly one of the most enjoyable weddings to photograph. A big thanks to the groomsmen and officiant for your help and for keeping us laughing. :) The day was a delight from beginning to end. Amy and Kent, it was such a joy to witness your playful, happy love! Congratulations!

Thank you, Sharlane, for once again sharing your enthusiasm and talent. You make every event better and complete the coverage with your beautiful images.

View the Slide Show

Vijya and Scott's Indian Wedding

2008-05-20T15:14:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful event! Jeff LaPlante invited me to photograph Vijya and Scott's wedding with him. Such loving and outgoing people - all 400+ ! Here are a few of my favorite shots. Jeff's images are amazing. Look for a full slide show of his images on his blog. Congratulations Vijya and Scott.

Malia and Ben

2008-03-27T03:26:00.000-07:00

View their slide show

Kimberly and Doug

2008-03-21T21:43:00.000-07:00

View their slide show

Lauren and Bob

2007-12-22T00:52:00.000-08:00

View their slide show.

Kim and AJ

2007-12-21T13:26:00.000-08:00

View their slide show.

Kate and Jeff

2007-12-18T21:47:00.000-08:00

View their slide show.

Kelly and Adam

2007-12-15T15:08:00.000-08:00

View their slide show.

Tracy and Wes

2007-11-29T01:39:00.000-08:00

View the slide show.

Kelly and Will

2007-11-16T03:07:00.000-08:00

View the slide show.

Galya and Blake

2007-11-13T21:04:00.001-08:00

View the wedding slide show. And, the engagement session slide show.

Galya and Blake were married on the 8th of September at the beautiful Benaroya Hall, home of Seattle's symphony. A grand affair, gorgeous day and fun trip to the Olympic Sculpture Park.

My huge thanks to Jeff LaPlante for his excellent second coverage on the day and his ever present smile, friendship, and support! I've said it a million times, "What would I do without you, Jeff!"

Thanks also to my favorite Seattle wedding coordinator: Melissa Bryan, owner of Lush Parties and Events.

Congratulations Galya and Blake!

Shannon and Pablo

2007-11-02T13:09:00.000-07:00

Shannon and Pablo were married on August 11 at Bassetti's Crooked Arbor Gardens. Beautiful - and whimsical - gardens, secret paths, and all kinds of sculpture and art by Northwest artists. We had a gorgeous, sunny day for their outdoor wedding.

Reception was held at the wonderful Willows Lodge. Thank you again, Erin, for your excellent service always!

I have to mention Shannon's exquisite flowers - and all the arrangements. TJ Montague of Garden Party did the floral design. They were just amazing!

Yuriy Manchik provided great second photographer coverage for us. Thank you, Yuriy! You were totally fun to work with, and I really appreciated how you kept your lens choice opposite of mine. This made for superb coverage! You got the best cake shot!

Photography is a major part of Shannon and Pablo's life; they both work at Corbis. It was truly an honor to create your wedding photographs! Thank you, Shannon and Pablo. A perfect day! Congratulations!

View the slide show.

Trisha and Brian

2007-10-23T14:10:00.000-07:00

This is a truly sweet couple. It was such a gift to witness the sincere tenderness and appreciation they share toward one another. And, what a beautiful pair! The light was perfect on the 10th of August. The historic Sorrento Hotel for the bride's preparations and the Seattle Yacht Club for the ceremony and reception provided lovely backdrops on their wedding day. On those prized sunny Seattle days, the club is saturated with the warm glow of the sunset.

There were many heart touching moments. When the bride and groom opened the gift that the other had sent on the wedding day, they both had tears fill their eyes. They have a deep and sensitive gratitude for their relationship. And, it was beautiful seeing Trisha and her mother walk down the aisle arm in arm.

Trisha works for Nordstrom and gets to know many designers. Steve Madden personally made her wedding slippers. Trisha's dress reflected her elegant style and was just perfect for her. I loved the delicate straps. Brian, well he's just completely handsome, especially that smile!

Thank you Sharlane for second shooting! As you know, I love your work and being with you! Everything is always more fun in your company! What a privilege to have this great photographer and creator of Urban Unveiled with us .

Click here for their wedding slideshow. Congratulations Trisha and Brian!

Monica and Jonathan

2007-10-15T20:46:00.000-07:00

Monica and Jonathan were married on August 4th in La Conner. It was a beautiful summer day - lots of sun - which hasn't been the case for many weddings this season. We enjoyed an amazing panoramic view of the north Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountain range. Monica and Jonathan's fun loving personalities truly reflect their parents' energetic and full of life spirits! What great people! The evening ended with fireworks over the Sound and Monica and Jonathan exiting to sparklers! Congratulations!

Jamie and Brett

2007-10-02T18:21:00.000-07:00

Jamie and Brett were married on July 28 at Everett Golf and Country Club. It's always such a compliment to be booked over the phone. Jamie and I didn't have the pleasure of meeting until a few weeks before their wedding day. We met for coffee in quaint downtown Edmonds and what a wonderful surprise and delight when I first laid eyes on Jamie. Such a beauty and sweet soul. Thank you for inviting me to be part of your special day! Congratulations you two!

Salwa and Leon

2007-09-20T17:17:00.000-07:00

Salwa and Leon were married on July 14th. Their wedding was held at Leon's parents' amazing property on Camano Island, WA. We were right on a cliff! The moody, hot summer weather cooperated, and we enjoyed incredible views of the Puget Sound and Mt. Baker. Such a great couple, beautiful Egyptian bride, fun music, dessert (pies instead of cake :) and open air dancing... And, the children had so much fun with the kitty, the chickens and the eggs...

Congratulations Salwa and Leon!

Jennifer and Dave

2007-09-17T21:10:00.000-07:00

Jennifer and Dave were married in Jennifer's hometown of Lebanon, Oregon on June 30th. Dave is one of my husband's dearest and closest friends, and Paul was honored to be Dave's best man. Theirs was an extra special wedding for us, and I had the joy of photographing it!

We are so thankful that you've been blessed with one another! Congratulations to you both! You are true soul mates.

One of the most memorable moments of their wedding was Dave's substitute for the garter toss. In place of this more recent tradition, Dave chose one that symbolizes commitment and humility. With probably a dozen children around him, Dave removed Jennifer's sandals, and washed her feet. It was beautiful and we were humbled by your love!

Erin and Steve

2007-09-13T23:32:00.001-07:00

Erin and Steve were married this year on the seventh day of the seventh month. According to theknot.com, 38,000 weddings were planned for 07.07.07 - three times the norm for July Saturdays. I would not have wanted to be anywhere else on this special day. Erin and Steve are two of the most friendly, fun and appreciative people one could ever meet or work with. Their families and guests reflected their vivacious personalities, and it was such a fabulous celebration.

Photographing their wedding was a gift in every way. One of the most touching moments was when Erin's father saw her for the first time in her wedding gown - just before she was to meet Steve. If every father and daughter shared such love and affection, the world would surely be better place!

The wedding and reception were held at the beautiful DeLille Cellars in Woodinville, WA. Willows Lodge provided wonderful event coordinating services, and the amazing catering was provided by Barking Frog. Everything was beautiful.

Chris of C. Charles Bowden Photography provided excellent second photographer coverage. Thank you, Chris! I love your images, and it was truly a pleasure to work with you.

Congratulations Erin and Steve! Thank you both for the privilege of photographing your wedding and our new friendship!

For the wedding slideshow, click here. And, the pre wedding day slideshow, click here.

Nina and John

2007-08-22T01:59:00.000-07:00

Nina and John were married on June 23 at the beautiful new Suncadia Resort in Roslyn, WA. We were blessed with a perfect day for their outdoor wedding. If you've never visited Suncadia, I highly recommend the trip. What a gorgeous drive and destination.

I met Nina and John through Candice, one of Nina's bridesmaids, who attending a 2006 wedding that I covered. Thank you, Candice! You and your husband were so helpful on the wedding day - and so joyous! Much appreciated!

My great friend and fellow photographer Sharlane Chase joined me at Nina and John's event. What a gift to all of us. Thank you, Sharlane. It's always a complete delight to be in your company. Thank you for your valued time and beautiful second coverage. No one's better at the details than you!

Congratulations Nina and John! You planned a truly picturesque wedding. Thank you for asking me to document your day!

Visit Nina and John's engagement SLIDESHOW and wedding SLIDESHOW.

Galya & Blake

2007-08-06T17:23:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy to be working with Galya and Blake. I was introduced to this fun, creative couple through One Thousand Words Photography. Thank you Angie and Ashley!

Galya and Blake will marry on September 8, 2007 at the beautiful Benaroya Hall, home of Seattle Symphony.

Here's the SLIDESHOW of their engagement session. I really love this collection of images! Galya and Blake you were so very natural and fun to be with! Looking forward to your wedding day!

Dane Sanders and Emily & Scott

2007-08-01T17:32:00.001-07:00

Dane, thank you for inviting me to share in Emily & Scott's beautiful wedding with you! What a great day! Theirs was such a joyous celebration!

Dane is based in California. His blog and simple photo minute will keep you up on ALL the latest in the photog world. At Emily and Scott's wedding, Dane tried out Jessica Claire's alternative to the traditional camera bag. Check out her Shootsac line. They're great!

Here's a SLIDESHOW of some of the images that I took at the wedding. Thanks again, Dane. It was a pleasure working with you! Congratulations Emily and Scott!

2nd Shooting

2007-08-01T16:08:00.000-07:00

West coast photographers are blessed to have a special community of talented and giving colleagues. One of my brides recently told me how surprised she was to discover that many of us actually link to the sites and blogs of our competitors. It's true: some of our best competitors are also some of our best friends.

One of the privileges of these relationships is 2nd shooting. Many of us share our calendars and 2nd shoot for one another when we're available. What a gift for us and our couples.

I've had the opportunity to 2nd shoot for Jeff LaPlante, Sharlane Chase and Dane Sanders. Here's a SLIDESHOW of some of my favorite images that I've taken at their weddings. Congratulations Tiffany & Bobby, Ashley & Derek, Ashley & Jason and Becky & Tyler! And, thank you Jeff and Sharlane for having me along!

Erin & Steve & Jens

2007-06-11T23:33:00.000-07:00

Meet Erin, Steve and my new favorite friend, Steve's son Jens. What a sweetheart! I was introduced to this wonderfully warm and fun couple through another good friend and fellow photographer Me Ra Koh. Thank you, Me Ra; I'm smitten with this family!

Erin and Steve planned their engagement session at the location of their very first date: Discovery Park. This is the spot where Steve surprised Erin with a picnic basket, wine glasses, blanket... all the essentials to woo this old fashioned girl (what woman wouldn't be swept off her feet by a picnic in the park with Steve!).

Erin and Steve will be married on the most sought after wedding date of 2007. July 7th at the beautiful DeLille Cellars.

What spontaneity, affection and love these three share. SLIDESHOW.

Nina & John

2007-05-21T12:09:00.000-07:00

Nina and I began corresponding last fall while I was in Chile for my wedding in Santiago. I'll never forget her first e-mail; it was so kind and inviting that a portion of her inquiry now leads the moments section of my portfolio. I'm very excited to be working with Nina and John!

We had such a gorgeous spring evening for their pre-wedding day session! We met in quaint downtown Edmonds at Starbucks and walked down to the picturesque waterfront park where we enjoyed our time against the backdrop of the sunset and comings and goings of the ferry. We timed it perfectly to take advantage of the day's loveliest and last light.

Nina and John will be married on June 23, 2007 at the amazing Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum. Such a great venue for this beautiful and fun loving couple.

Since we share a love for travel and Latin music, I've chosen Fotografia by Juanes & Nelly Furtado for Nina and John's SLIDESHOW. I love this song even though all the lyrics that I can find for it are in Spanish. I hope the words are as sweet and fun as its tune.

Nancy & Donn

2007-05-04T00:29:00.000-07:00

Nancy and Donn, what a joy it has been getting to know you (and Cotswold :) over the last few months! From our first meeting, and beyond the Southern roots that Donn and I share, we enjoyed such a natural connection. You are two of the most friendly and fun loving people one could ever meet. Nancy, you are such a kind soul and radiant spirit, and I have delighted in our correspondence! How wonderful it was to photograph your overflowing enthusiasm, spontaneity and love on your wedding day!

Thank you for sharing your day and so much more with me! You were both so very gracious and went out of your way to make Jeff and me feel among your closest guests - even before the wedding. Thank you for making it a point to introduce us to so many of the special people in your life.

Nancy and Donn have an endearing love story that began in an elevator at the Metropolitan Building in downtown Seattle. This is where they met - once - then twice - then Donn figured he better not let this amazing woman disappear again. On their beautiful, blue-sky wedding day, we went back to where the spark began. On the rooftop, the incredible view was the perfect backdrop for the tango!

Nancy was full of surprises: her vibrant parasol, spicy tango dress, magnificent band and the groom's cake, to name a few. What shape does the groom cake take when the groom is from Texas? An armadillo, of course. And, what does an armadillo wear to a wedding? Texas bluebonnets, of course. It was truly cute - until Donn cut its poor head off to reveal a red velvet interior. Shocking and so much fun for all of us!

Nancy and Donn had a truly elegant wedding at the Women's University Club, which has a very interesting history dating back to 1914. The whole day was a delight! So much expression! SLIDESHOW!

Sally & Paul Lebanese Wedding

2007-03-13T12:51:00.000-07:00

Sally and Paul will forever hold my affection and prayers in an extra special way. I had the blessing of introducing these two beautiful spirits to one another (along with the help of Paul's friend Vasileios). It makes me deeply happy knowing that it was my photography that first drew their hearts together. Of course the real credit is God's who orchestrated their miraculous story.

Last July I visited dear friends (the Mamalakis family who introduced me to my husband) in Boston before covering a destination wedding in Vermont. During dinner with friends Nektarios and Vesileios (Greek names!), I first learned of Paul Kassab: half Lebanese, half Greek, doctor, single and known for his warm personality and deserving character. A plan was developed for me to subtly meet and photograph Paul at Nektarios' going away (back to Greece) party. This way I'd have information and photos for my girlfriend Sally (an extraordinary woman, editor, and writer), whom we believed could be the perfect match for Paul. Sally was vacationing and visiting family in her homeland of Lebanon when the July War began. (You can read some of her war experiences in her article that appeared in the Seattle Times.) As Sally was waiting to be evacuated from Lebanon, I was meeting her future husband!

Seven months later, I photographed their wedding. Sally and Paul are genuine soul mates. Their love and gratitude overflowed on their wedding day with tears of joy and so much expression.

The Lebanese are wonderfully passionate! Sally and Paul (with the help of the truly talented coordinator Melissa Bryan) planned a wedding rich with meaning and traditions from their faith and culture. The ceremony was celebrated in three languages and chanted in Arabic. You can learn more about the Orthodox wedding service on Sally and Paul's Web site. As a gift to their family and guests, Sally and Paul surprised everyone by entering the reception to the traditional ceremonial hail, a "zaffeh," performed by a Lebanese dance troupe complete with drums, tambourines and lots of color!

Lastly, I have to share a sentiment of Sally's father delivered during his toast. He explained how it had been his dream to walk his daughter down the aisle on her wedding day. And having experienced it, he announced that he felt sorry for fathers who have only sons. I loved that! Sally requested the beautiful Lebanese song (translated by her father) that accompanies their SLIDESHOW. She heard it during the war and wondered if she would ever find the kind of love in the song. Yes, Mrs. Kassab!

Congratulations Sally and Paul!

Quote

2007-03-05T13:34:00.000-08:00

Received an e-mail from a good friend Jean Murphy (brilliant college professor, writer and musician) who follows her signature with this quote. Very good food for thought and I wanted to share it.

"May we look upon our treasure, the furniture of our houses, and our garments, and try to discover whether the seeds of war have nourishment in these our possessions." -- John Woolman (1774)

Urban Unveiled

2007-02-14T14:05:00.000-08:00

I was having tea yesterday with wedding photographer Sharlane Chase and learned more about the upcoming Urban Unveiled. We're all invited to this premier event on the evening of March 8th at the Palace Ballroom. Luly Yang will be there with her exquisite gowns. Tom Douglas will prepare the food... it's going to be a top notch affair designed to introduce couples to local vendors who truly provide excellent services and products - all in a relaxed and beautiful setting. Even if you've selected your wedding vendors, join us anyway to meet new friends! Sharlane has worked tirelessly to make this a one of a kind event. Here's a glimpse at her wonderfully vivacious personality!

Vanessa & Mike

2007-02-12T11:46:00.000-08:00

Vanessa and Mike were such a delight to work with! Theirs was my first wedding of the new year and what a gift to begin with such an easy going and fun couple! They planned a beautiful wedding that included special Filipino elements in their meaningful ceremony at Blessed Sacrament and reception at McCaw Hall. Immediately after Vanessa and Mike's introduction to the reception, they and their guests were greeted by an amazing Filipino drill team performance! This couple really showed how a winter wedding in the Pacific Northwest can be truly lovely. Even on an overcast day, planning with rich wedding colors, unique architecture, and natural light creates a gorgeous day! Here are some of my favorite photographs of their wedding SLIDESHOW.

Jeff LaPlante

2007-02-09T15:22:00.000-08:00

Where would I be without you, Jeff! I have to take a moment to thank this indispensable business consultant, great photographer and wonderful friend who has affected and changed my life in such a beautiful way. Jeff was a true Godsend during my conversion from film to digital, and he continues to offer excellent (and patient) work flow, storage and Web development support. Jeff is the Community Leader of Seattle's Pictage User Group. He is incredibly knowledgeable and infinitely giving. Despite his full and busy life as husband, father of two (plus 2 dogs & a cat) and PUG leader, Jeff always answers his phone and finds time to share his talents. I walked into his office this week to hear him on the phone with Dane Sanders. Last night he was helping Mike Colon troubleshoot his RAID set and talking to Jim Davis about Action Runner. Today when I called, Joann Arruda had just walked in the door. Jeff is a sterling example of community builder! DJ (Open Source Photo) should be proud! Jeff's not only a technical master, but he's an all around wealth of knowledge - everything from mouse traps to how to paint your house to the best coffee beans! Thank you, Jeff!

Jeff helping wedding photographer Sharlane Chase set up her network calendar.

Shannon & Robbie

2007-01-28T00:42:00.000-08:00

Shannon and Robbie had a beautiful winter wedding in December at the Hollywood Schoolhouse in Woodinville. Shannon was stunning! One of the sweetest moments of all my weddings was Shannon's father's toast. He described the day when he and his wife first brought Shannon home and how much joy she has brought to them. With so much love and pride he shared, "Today is the happiest day of my life!" Could there be more special words for a daughter on her wedding day? Here's Shannon's dear dad and other photographs that I love.

Vote for Seattle Bride Best of 2007

2007-01-26T12:34:00.000-08:00

Did you have outstanding vendors at your wedding? One way to acknowledge their hard work and talent is to nominate them for Seattle Bride's "Best Of." This great resource helps future brides and grooms make excellent choices for their wedding. Seattle Bride Magazine is collecting the votes and will list the winners in their next issue. Votes are due by February 15th!

Seattle Bride Magazine

2007-01-26T11:58:00.000-08:00

The new Spring/Summer issue of Seattle Bride Magazine was just released! I was very happy to find my full page ad coupled with Niki Stojnic's "Something Green" article. It's so important for us all to make natural choices, and it's truly awesome when couples include their wedding! I chose a sweet image of Karen Dempsey for this issue's ad.

Here are a few of my favorite images from Karen and Albert Kim's wedding day.

The Knot Seattle

2007-01-24T00:15:00.000-08:00

Just discovered that Lara Holman and Mike Garritano's story is featured on The Knot. Lara and Mike are such a fun couple and their wedding day truly expressed their personality and love for one another! I can't even remember how many times Mike swept Lara up into his arms (I later learned that Mike is a former Ironman competitor)! Oona Copperhill and I photographed their wedding together. Visit the SLIDESHOW to see some of our images. And, here's Lara's very sweet recommendation:

"A great venue and great photography were our top two priorities in planning for our wedding. Mike and I must have visited dozens of venues around Seattle, debating the pros and cons of each site, before we decided on the perfect spot. Selecting a photographer was thankfully much easier: Susie and Oona were the first photographers we met with, and Mike and I agreed immediately that they were a perfect match for us. And they definitely met our high expectations. Aside from being professional and easy to work with, they provided us with beautiful photographs that really capture the emotions and events of the day."

Weddings Gig Harbor

2007-01-23T23:32:00.000-08:00

The Pennisula Gateway asked me to provide the cover image for their 2007 Wedding section. We chose this colorful image of Marni Mueller (now Granston :) taken on her wedding day at her parents' home on the Sound to reflect the beautiful community of Gig Harbor. Here it is!

Marni with her groom, Jon Granston.

Persian Wedding in Las Vegas

2006-12-22T17:35:00.000-08:00

Oasis Found!

I'd never been to Vegas. And I'd never experienced a Persian wedding. I found my oasis in the desert at Mark and Heather Tadrissi's wedding. Mark is incredibly handsome, smart, a successful dentist - and my husband's cousin! We were so happy to learn of his beautiful bride and their engagement. I flew into Vegas from my Alabama Wedding and had the unusual opportunity to be a guest - not photographer - at an event. I knew it would be a challenge for me to keep my seat, but it was really wonderful to relax and to dance with my husband. I've been photographing at weddings since high school, so I couldn't attend this important wedding without at least one camera. I forced myself to take only one and left all my other gear in the hotel room. Mark and Heather's wedding was exquisite with the most intoxicating colors - gold, red, palm green and azure blue. Here are a few of the images that I couldn't resist. I fell in love with this song by Persian artist Omid. I don't speak Farsi, so I'm hoping the words are as romantic as the melody. I'll be posting a description soon about the details of the beautiful cultural elements of their wedding. Click here for Mark and Heather's SLIDESHOW.

Thankful!

2006-11-04T20:17:00.000-08:00

My first post! I can't believe I'm blogging! I feel I must begin by sharing some of my many blessings. 2006 has been an incredible year! Amazing opportunites, brand new look for Susie Hamidi Photography & Web site, first house, and especially so many wonderful friends in Seattle and around the world.

Divine intercessions, years of education, lots of hard work and many extraordinary people have nurtured an unbelievable harvest in my life. God, thank You for your merciful and loving provision! I thank my dear husband Paul for his support, which has provided me the freedom to follow my dreams, and for his patience when my passion for photography separates us – particularly during the most beautiful months of the year. Thank you for formatting my cards, making me breakfast, understanding my craziness on wedding day mornings, and for the days you spend alone while I'm shooting when you’d rather take me camping and exploring this beautiful part of the country. My special friend since grad school days and former business partner, Oona Copperhill, thank you for your friendship and for sharing your unique vision with me. I wouldn't be here without you. Jeff LaPlante, my Web designer, fellow photographer and one of my new favorite people - your generosity, encouragement, technical genius, and enthusiasm have changed my world. You are a true light! A huge thank you goes to Sara LaPlante for sharing your talented husband with so many of us. Pictage membership has been the bridge to an entire community of professional photographers and really great people. WPJA, how awesome to be invited to join this organization and worldwide group of photographers commited to photojournalism.

And, my beautiful brides and grooms! What a privilege to capture moments that preserve the memory of your wedding day. This year I've worked with couples living in Romania, England, the Philippines, New York City, Washington, D.C., Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, and of course many kindred spirits in the Pacific Northwest. Coming soon is a slideshow of my beautiful 2006 newlyweds!

On November 8th, I leave for Claudia and Alfredo's destination wedding in Santiago, Chile. Paul is able to join me for this trip, and after the wedding, we're really looking forward to touring this gorgeous country over two weeks. Thanksgiving in Chile! I invited Jeff LaPlante to cover the wedding with me. He said yes! and is bringing his lovely wife, too. What a fabulous time it will be. Can't wait to share photos when we return!