KrashingMotions

Crash the Wedding | Wedding Photographer

2010-07-24T11:42:00.000-07:00

Brides check this out!

It's a mock wedding. It's a bridal show. It's a charity benefit. And it's all green!

...and you never know who might CRASH THE WEDDING!"

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

from 6pm - 10pm

at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

for more details & to RSVP check out their site

http://www.crashthewedding.com/

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

The Wedding Pantry | Went for smores and got back MORE | Wedding Vendor

2010-07-23T14:11:00.000-07:00

At the end of May, a few of us from the Long Beach Wedding Collective visited the Wedding Pantry for a smores party. I hadn't been there yet, so I was excited to see what they had done with their storefront; it was so cute. The space is much larger than I could have imagined. It's nestled in the old town of Tustin. Have you visited Tustin's historic area before? If not, then do. It's absolutely an adorable area with historic homes and treelined streets and a prime location for the Wedding Pantry.

We walked into the "pantry" and were welcomed with huge smiles and hugs from the ladies. These ladies exude happiness and joy. The cynical side of me usually thinks if you are overly friendly you must have an ulterior motive, but not these ladies. They are the real thing! Their charm, smiles, hugs and joyfulness is authentic and refreshing. Their storefront reflects this as well. Everywhere there are goods with words of inspiration.

This is a great place to be inspired for wedding ideas and goods for both couples and vendors.

Here are some of the fabulous ladies of the Wedding Pantry, including the heart of it event planner, Eva Chiou.

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Ashley & Hoff Baby Shower | Newport Beach Photography

2010-07-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

The same day Kruiz graduated from Pre-K, we had a baby shower to attend. Our dear friends Ashley & Hoff are expecting their 1st baby and it's going to be a BOY~ Rawley Quinn!!!!

The day started early getting Kruiz all dolled up for her graduation and then a quick bite right after to celebrate and then a trip south to good ole NP (Newport Beach). This is where Donovan and I met and some old stomping grounds for us both.

When we arrived, we were welcomed with cheers, hugs, kisses and the evermore announcements of " Kristi Krash is here" & "Krash what up?" Now you may all know how KrashingMotions developed.

It felt like home, a place remembered well amongst some friends who we shared some crazy times & great memories with. It was so much fun seeing all my old pals whom Donovan & I both worked with at Blue Water Grill years ago. Lucky for me, some of them are still there, it's like going to "Cheers" for me "where everybody knows your name and they're always glad you came...". And for those who are not still at the Blue, Ash & Hoff have kept them all close to them. Ashley is like the glue that holds us all together.

She has always been there for me. No matter how long we may go without seeing each other, she still remains to be one of the most amazing friends ever! I'm lucky we have shared in so many of life's moments; her wedding, our wedding, my baby shower, now her baby shower.

After some wine, some laughs, and the passing of the "Krash" torch to Lisa P for eating $#@! on her face and breaking her nose, we watched the opening of the gifts. I watched in amazement as Ashley opened her gifts while Kruiz helped and thought "wow, we have all had so many memories in the past 13 years and we have all had so many life changing moments yet we still remain friends through it all!

Thanks Ash & Hoff for being such amazing friends, such amazing people and now you will be amazing parents- what a lucky kid!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Canvas on demand | Wedding Photography

2010-07-20T15:41:00.000-07:00

This is so cool! Now Canvas on Demand allows pros to upload photos to show clients what their moments could look like on virtual canvas! Wow this is so great because I know how difficult it is to choose and visualize what shot will work best! Now my clients can get an idea of what to look forward to!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

8 Years Married | KrashingMotions | Lifestyle Wedding Photographer

2010-07-14T12:45:00.000-07:00

Last month , my husband and I celebrated our 8 year anniversary as husband and wife. I can't believe how fast time flies. I remember the moment we met 11 and a half years ago at the Alley in Newport Beach. I remember the day he proposed to me at Sunstone Winery in Santa Ynez and how excited we were. I remember the planning of our wedding and the trips to Santa Barbara to finalize each detail.

We didn't have much money but we created an amazing wedding that was uniquely our own.

I remember the doors opening of the El Presidio with my dad by my side. The Spanish guitarist began to play and the sounds of his strings filled the air as I walked towards my soon to be husband. I could tears welling up in his eyes. We promised our love to each other and I felt as if we were the only people in the room. Then we kissed and were announced as husband and wife. We walked down the aisle as Mr. & Mrs. Mauga.

The moment, the day, the feelings are still so fresh in my mind.

Our lives together have been drawn out with destiny and fate taking control. We have so many of those "meant to be stories" since we met. I cherish him, our love and our lives so much.

Recently, I bumped into a friend who said it was great to see Donovan and I and see how true love lasts. I think our relationship works & survives because we share our struggles; we fight & we make up; we share our thoughts~ the good and the bad; we live our lives as a family not separately despite the fact we are both very independent; we make efforts to work on ourselves and our relationship; we support each other's dreams; we are in it no matter what even when we feel like we can't go on; we create memories as a family; we are husband & wife.

Along those 11+ years, our love has always been there no matter what challenges or obstacles we have faced. We have had many fabulous moments & we have had some real struggles and it's those struggles that keep our relationship strong because we always know we can get through anything!

I thank you my husband for being my best friend, for being by my side always, for caring for me, for loving me, for sharing your life with me and of course for giving me a family and being their for us!

I love Donovan!

Wow this was 8 years ago! ( I have to find the pics from our honeymoon one day...they are archived somewhere).

Roy's was our 1st Anniversary dinner near Monterey.

This was last year's anniversary in Santa Ynez where he proposed 9 years ago and where we stayed the night of our engagement. We had such a great time reliving the moment. This year we stayed local but we still wanted to make our anniversary feel special so we got a room at the Avia in Long Beach. We always celebrate our anniversary- it's very important we make it special no matter where we are.

The people at the Avia are amazing BTW! If you stay there ask for Melissa Reynolds! She made our anniversary very special! The room was so inviting! We ended up having cocktails in the early evening then came back to our room by 7:30 to enjoy it. I haven't slept that well in years!

I just loved everything about this room. The bathroom was so great- I loved showering in it! Here we are just enjoying the day. That's my hubby- not bad for 40... yum, yum my hubby is hot! That building is called Camden- it's where we 1st lived when we moved to Long Beach 7 years ago. I love Long Beach if you didn't already know!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Happy Independence Day | My independent lil one | KrashingMotions Photography

2010-07-03T13:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Independence Day everyone! This year has been truly spectacular!

All around me there are changes, growth, new ideas, new found passions, and all of this I see through the eyes of my 5 year old Kruiz! She amazes me daily! She inspires me daily. She makes me want to be a better person daily!

I am so proud of her. She just graduated from P-K and soon will be attending Kindergarden; I teared up as I saw them dressing her in her cap and gown. My little girl has gone from newborn to toddler to a beautiful young girl what seems like in a matter of 2 years not 5! She is extremely inquisitive and bright. Yes we all say that about our children, but it's true in regards to her- she amazes me! My husband is quite the scholar and he has huge dreams for her and I just want her to do what she is passionate about. I know she loves art, music and reading. She definitely takes after daddy when it comes to achievements. She works in her workbook daily. She practices her keyboard and writes songs daily. She creates art daily. She practices her reading daily. Yes, we thought she needed to learn how to read before kindergarden, but we were wrong, that's 1st grade and now I'm afraid she will be bored in kindergarden. I wish I had the stamina and drive that my 5 year old has, again her independence & her drive just impresses me!

I love you my sweetie and I look forward to the days of watching your grow and learn. Your vision of life is inpiring and keeps me motivated to be better at everthing I do. Keep dreaming and continue to follow them!

I love you Kruiz!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Candice Maloney {Independence Day} | KrashingMotions | Long Beach Lifestyle Photography

2010-07-01T16:22:00.000-07:00

I work in an industry about uniting love. I have to admit my job is pretty amazing; I get to capture real moments between two people committing themselves to each other. I love being able to document and share these couples' amazing events.

In this day and age and especially at my age, some of the happy couples end up growing apart and end up turning the page to a new chapter of life. I have seen many break-ups, divorces in the past couple of years and yes it is sad to see your friends, your family split and move on. From these moments, I have also seen growth, strength, and independence from these new beginnings.

A new beginning, a fresh start, was celebrated just a couple of weeks ago for my friend and peer Candice Maloney. I met Candice last December through the Long Beach Wedding Collective; she along with Megan Gray founded the Collective and it has been so great to meet and work with such amazing people. Candice works in this industry as an event planner & owner of De-Lovely Events; she is absolutely amazing (call her if you are planning a wedding in the future).

Anyway, I got an invite to celebrate and document her {Independence Day}. Really? I love how she, her friends and family (her mom and aunt joined us) decided to embrace this new chapter in her life with a celebration! Candice is very lucky to have such an amazing group of friends and family!

The night was filled with laughter and more laughter as the night grew. We began the evening with food, vino and music at La Creperie, then some more wine at the Thai restaurant across the way. We soon jumped on the passport for an even more eventful night at the Avia (an amazing boutique hotel downtown) for a rooftop celebration. The ladies were so fun and so accommodating with the pouring of wine my way. I'm not sure how much wine we drank, but it seemed to be plentiful and constantly available. We made one last stop to the Dueling Piano Bar, which after 2 or 3 songs I had to make my way out in order to not end up tripping over myself later. My eyes were tired and I left feeling very fortunate to have been there to celebrate with Candice and meet some fabulous ladies!

Cheers! Thanks for having me! I look forward to knowing you more Candice and seeing what this chapter in your life brings!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

David & Danielle Married | Wedding at Cliff Restaurant in Laguna Beach | KrashingMotions Photography

2010-06-29T21:28:00.000-07:00

Like I said before, there was so much going on at this wedding, so many moments that it was almost impossible to not post every moment captured! The bride and groom, wedding party, the family and guest partied it up and enjoyed every moment. The ceremony was particularly my favorite! Danielle was so filled with emotion, she could not contain her tears of joy. David fought back the tears as well and even ststed that she need to hurry it down so they could make this official and make babies! So many memoriable moments! I loved shooting this wedding at the Cliff Restaurant in Laguna Beach. Thanks Charla for having me as your 2nd; it's always great to shoot with your best friend!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

"Can't Help Myself by Jeramiah Red" | Jeramiah Red | KrashingMotions Photography

2010-06-26T09:59:00.000-07:00

I am a product of the 70's; I was raised listening to Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, Doobie Brothers, Pink Floyd, Janis Jopplin and many other iconic classic rock legends. My love for music is vast. I love so many styles such as classic rock, hard rock, blues, spanish jazz, alternative, punk..... the list goes on. But if I were to be a rock star, I would be real rocker! Sorry I wouldn't be a Britney Spears or even Madonna (who I love), I would be a chick rocker in Stone Temple Pilots if I could. Unfortunately I didn't get the trait of a kick ass voice like my sister Karlee and my brother, the rocker, Wesley Dickson! My bro is living my ultimate dream and I am so proud of him! Thankfully I can have a glimpse into the spirit of a rocker and the thrill of a stage when I go to his concerts! I get so amped from their music, the beat of the drums, the twang of the strings, the edge of the mic!

Wesley is the lead singer of Jeramiah Red, a rock band at it's finest! They are the perfect blend of classic rock, blues, grass roots blended with some hard rock! There sound reaches the souls of all ages! They get the crowd going at every venue and their following grows daily!

If I weren't related to the lead singer, I would still be their biggest fan; I listen to them at home!

Lucky for me, these guys have pretty much grown up with Wes. We have the priveledge of their presence at our holiday get-togethers and our Christmas is the best! After a day of chaos, food, presents, paper, kids on a sugar high, we hang out around a fire and the boys break out their guitars and sing acoustic! Even better, both of my bro-in-laws are fabulous musicians as well and it's a family affair of shredding on guitars and ripping out a little, "I Love this Bar" as the night comes to an end.

Anyhow, onto a night with Jeramiah Red...

At the Whiskey and HEADLINING!!!!! Yes you heard me right- the boys were the HEADLINERS at the WHISKEY a Go Go!!!!

Jeremiah Red began their journey 2006. Wesley was originally apart of the Relentless, while Ian was the lead singer of another band (sorry I don't remember the name). My sister Kendee was about to get married, so I threw her a Bachelorette party here in LB. We rented a trolley from George's Greek Cafe and headed to the Queen Mary for a massive concert that my brother was going to be playing. He was asked to be a guest singer for Ian's band for one song. From there it seemed to be the beginning of some great collaborations and shortly after Jeramiah Red was formed!

Your music inspires me! I look forward to the day, I can say I knew them when...

You guys are on your way! I look forward to buying a CD soon!

Ian Cullien~Guitar & Vocals

Tim Miller~ Bass

Wesley Dickson~Lead Vocals, Guitar

Travis Ruiz~ Harmonica, Percussion

Matt Pleskacz~ Drums

This is

Jeramiah Red

Appearing tonight at Cabo Grill & Cantina. 301 N. Brea Blvd., Brea, CA 92821

& at the Whiskey again on August 13th

Click on the links to hear some of their work!

Can't Help Myself by Jeramiah Red

My Baby by Jeramiah Red

Hotel Cigarettes (LIVE) by Jeramiah Red

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

{Yve} MUA & Hair Stylist Guru | Long Beach Wedding Collective | Long Beach Photographer

2010-06-18T10:50:00.000-07:00

A few months ago maybe more like 5, I was at Flaunt Salon getting pampered by my stylist Ivan. I asked if he ever did weddings (hair that is)? With a smirk, tilted down chin and an upward glare he said, "uh, NO, but My friend Yve here does and she loves them!" Great! Yve has been in the business for over 17 years. I checked out her website and it is beautiful. She is a lover of vibrant, rich colors and has an elegant, eclectic style wrapped in one. So now why was I looking for Yve?.....

I became apart of the Long Beach Wedding Collective back in November/December of 09. It's been a work in progress trying to get the most fabulous vendors with unique styles that set them apart from the rest. Megan Gray and Candice Maloney are the co-founders and inspirers who came up with collective, developed it and sought after all of the members with a few spots left when it had started. The collective has been very inspiring to me and I have been honored to be apart of it since the beginning.

When it came time for our first mixer, they had mentioned they needed hair & make-up and hopefully one person who did both. I am one of those people who loves a mission. Candice & Megan have posed a few missions for me and so far I think I have hit them out of the ball park when it came to finding talent (I hope I didn't sound la-de-da or neener-neener, but I am really proud of the people I have helped bring on board because they are amazing); my friend Charla of Charla Blue when we needed another photographer with fab style and Yve who not only just 'does' hair and make-up but exudes style in works of art... meaning you! You are her canvas and when she lays her brush on the canvas of your face, you are transformed into a beauty like no other!

Last month, the Collective met for a photoshoot to be done of us for a feature on the Long Beach Business Journal. After our shoot, Charla and I asked if anyone still needed headshots. I was thrilled to see Yve was in. She is so beautiful and edgy at the same time... my kind-a-girl! I shot a few headshots of her and they all came out amazing! She is stunning! Her eyes just grab you! I definitely need to hire her to do make-up n hair for my clients during boudoir sessions and me too (I could use a make over).

After some shooting, we met downstairs at the Avia's bar for some vino. Charla, Yve and I talked for while. Yve is soft spoken, super sweet and very creative in work and play. She is definitely an artist in the truest form! She mentioned that she and her husband Armando had created a drum circle called Drum for Love. I didn't know that, nor expect it. I have known a few people who sit in drum circles from my past, one being was in New Mexico while people passed the Native American ritual pipe and a few people danced naked around a fire.... but that's another story, another drum circle. Yve's drum circle has developed into something so much more. It has brought all sorts of talent~ violinists, trumpets, even fire dancers! I will have to check out their next performance which will be a collaboration with Alfredo's Beach Club in Belmont Shore (details to follow soon). Their vision of the Drum Circle is not small by any means, they look into the future and see it as a entity to give back to their community while doing something they love and hopefully traveling with their massive ensemble.

After hearing this, I had to know more about Yve. I asked if she would mind if I featured her along with some of her personal experiences in life.

Come to find out more, she has an amazing love story! Yes, I know I'm apart of the wedding industry and I have heard many but this one tops the cake when it comes to getting married to your lifetime partner, your soulmate! This girl is adventurous and so his her husband. Last November, she and her partner Armando decided to "follow their hearts to Guatemala" and have a traditional Mayan Ceremony performed by a Mayan Elder. Right there I am like "WOW!" but it gets even better. They took off without any real plans, no reservations, no guests, no contacts, no idea if they could EVEN find an Elder- nothing...just an idea that came from their hearts and off they were to follow that feeling, that inspiration! The day before they were to marry or as they prefer to say "Sacred Union", they saw smoke on a hill and decided to follow it. They had walked into a ceremony and met an Elder. Of course they told him of their wishes and he not only welcomed it, but said he had seen in it in a prophetic vision of them coming from far away to have their ceremony with him. OK can you say "what? n WOW?" Again! So it was set, the next day they would have their Mayan Union Ceremony. From what she says, the Mayan people were "so kind" and took care of everything! How is that for wedding planning? They say "it takes a village".... They built a sacred fire, altars and stringed flowers to "lasso" them together. She said the experience was surreal and I can only imagine. Their elder Tato Pedro Cruz was known as one the most respected Elders. Seriously this doesn't just happen to anyone.

So if you meet Yve just know she is talented, spiritual, adventurous, artistic. To have her presence on your wedding day should mark a sign of good luck for you I'm sure!

If you would like to get in touch with Yve... visit her website http://yvehart.com

If you want to know more about Drum for Love visit http://www.meetup.com/Drum-For-Love/

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Danielle & David Married | Laguna Beach Real Wedding | California Destination Wedding Photographer

2010-06-17T22:09:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I had a blast photographing a wedding in Laguna Beach with my best buddy Charla of Charla Blue. She was in a jam and needed a 2nd; she asked reluctantly as if maybe I would say no... NOT I said "of course; I'm in!" It always nice to go back and shoot with someone you have shot with MANY times; there isn't any stress or questions of what we need to do. We hadn't shot a wedding together since November when I had a couple who married out in Blythe (road-trip!!!!).

I couldn't have been more pleased to be apart of this wedding; the couple Danielle and David and the wedding party were an absolute blast! They were ready to celebrate before we even arrived. Their humor, their enthusiasm and their emotions really made for some exciting and memorable shots!

There were so many moments this day, I couldn't leave anything out. So this will be a 2 part blog.

Congrats to Danielle and David for being so amazing and living it up!

Details... I love the popping colors!

Ok, these shoes threw a stylish, edgy curve into the girly pink- luv'd it!

There was goosing....

The boys were in style with shades, cuff links, stogies and JD!

I love how these two were so emotional, especially Danielle.

Cheers! In rock-star true form... shades and stylin' flasks!

This was the best! I'm not into the traditional formals.... and apparently neither are they! So thanks for some of my favorite moments ever photographing a wedding!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Happy Anniversary to me, my hubby & YOU! | Wedding Package Special | KrashingMotions

2010-06-15T11:07:00.000-07:00

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Julia & Tom | Engaged in LA | Urban Engagement Photographer

2010-06-01T13:27:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday, I had the pleasure to meet Julia & Tom in Downtown LA at Big Wang's. They were one of the couples that had attended Jen O'Sullivan's Engagement Shoot Out but were not apart of the "red" group I was shooting. They approached me shortly after I had finished shooting that day. I think we hit it off, because they had asked if I would shoot them. They had missed the raffle and didn't win any of the fabulous prizes, so I offered them a mini shoot as prize.

This couple is so vibrant and full of life!

Julia is a fashion designer; I worked in the industry in different avenues and have always loved fashion and art so she and I definitely have common interest. Tom is a lawyer who just represented a high-profile case (don't know if the logistics can be mentioned though) and he is total sports fan! He said he was really looking forward to hopefully the Lakers and Celtics in the finals (my hubby said the same) and they both got their wish granted! I could see my husband and I meeting them out for happy hour to watch the Trojans and pitcher of beer.

The evening was very relaxed and they were both so easy to speak with, I love meeting people and feeling as if you've known them for a while.

Julia and Tom LOVE the city, urban feel. They met in DC and then lived in NY for about 4 years. After moving to the Grove area as their 1st Cali dwelling, they shortly realized that they earned for the city lifestyle again and now reside in the fast and fabulous life of downtown LA (though they say it's not fast, not when you come from the city of NY).

I love how they embrace the uniqueness of urban life; they are a very proud LA couple! I completely feel their love for each other and for their lives! I myself love the city and the variety of scenery; it's a different backdrop every 10 feet!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Nichole & Casey | Engaged & Shoot Out | Engagement Photographer

2010-05-24T18:55:00.000-07:00

While at the Charity Shoot Out in Malibu, I was in between couples getting ready to find the next couple in my group when a teal eyed striking gal approached me asking if I was KrisD Mauga.

"Yes I am".

She says, "I just emailed you my couple's questionnaire and checklist".

me, "Oh Nichole, right?"

"Yes".

Wow a potential client of mine, whom I had been in contact with for wedding inquiry for the past few weeks was here at the Shoot Out! I was so excited to finally meet her and her fiancee Casey! I asked if she was in my group- the red one. She said she was in yellow, but was hoping to get a chance to shoot with me.

"Of course I will to shoot you!"

How flattering for them to show for such a great cause and to have me shoot them as well.

Since they weren't in my "group" I had very little time to spend with them, so I offered an additional mini-shoot during our consultation a week later. We met in Santa Monica at the Pourtal Wine Bar. It's always nice to casually talk about wedding details and enjoy a glass of wine. Shortly later we had our mini shoot during a perfect day. So if you see a more photos than usual, it's because we shot twice.

After our 15 minute shoot, we sat down again to go over more details. We ended up talking for over an hour and half. They are so down to earth, enjoy rock climbing, love nature and are getting married at the Malibu Nature Preserve.

I have shot in Malibu multiple times yet not at the Preserve just yet. I really love that area; it's so lush with huge green trees, rustic with ranch style feel, and peaceful with ocean views. There is so much to offer for photography in this area!

Nichole & Casey thanks for spending time with me and allowing me to capture some more fabulous moments between the two of you!

These shoes really made my day! Lucky for Nichole she wears a 7 and I wear an 8.5 or they may have fallen into my bag.....

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Tehniat & Stillian | Malibu Charity Engagement Shoot Out | Engagement Photography

2010-05-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

So after a day of crazy wind and 4 couples I had just finished shooting for the Charity Shoot Out at the Malibu Restaurant, Mia, Amanda and I sat down to enjoy a glass of wine and celebrate the day. Come to find out I'm not done; more couples have shown and I'm needed! As much as I wanted to enjoy my wine, I really was hoping to shoot more couples! I was excited to meet couple #5 Tehniat & Stillian. They (more so she) really took to the camera. There wasn't much direction needed with these two. They were head over heals for each other and very comfortable with me shooting their moment! Since we had multiple shooters, my time was cut just to 8 minutes but really that's all I needed with this couple; they rocked the session! Thanks you two!

Tehniat's eyes are just stunning!

To finish with a sunset. I wish I could have had 6 sunsets that day for all the couples. It was a beautiful moment and my favorite time of the day everyday!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Stephanie & Pat | Malibu Wedding Photographer | Charity Engagement Shoot Out

2010-05-21T20:13:00.000-07:00

Again, I would like to thank Jen O'Sullivan for taking the time to put together this amazing event at the Malibu Restaurant- "The Charity Engagement Shoot Out". The event raised funds for the LETMESAIL, a foundation "to provide therapeutic, social, recreational, and educational opportunities for differently-abled individuals with disabilities (and their family members) enabling them to maximize their potential to lead a more independent, healthy, and enriched quality of life through a wide variety of activities held on-site at its Lifestyle Enrichment Center as well as a myriad of community-based activities."

So now onto my couple #4- Stephanie & Pat! An adorable couple who surprised me and were wiling to get wet in the ocean. When I had asked if they would frolic on the shore they said "no problem", but then they said "you mean just our feet right?" I really meant get in the waves and let me capture something great, but I'm not going to force anything on my couple they really don't want to do. So I said sure just your feet would be fine. As they played and I shot, a surprise for us all.... a huge wave came over and took them nearly up to the waist (actually mid thigh)! I loved it! They seemed shocked but loved it as well! I love that they were such great sports!

These kind of moments make for great shots and great memories to look back on, so GO FOR IT!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Sonia & Luis | Charity Engagement Shootout | Malibu Wedding Photography

2010-05-18T23:32:00.000-07:00

Couple #3... Sonia & Luis! They are such a fabulous couple full of romance & laughter. It was such a pleasure to shoot them.

They were the 1st couple I shot where I had to actually share with other photogs; I love shooting with other photogs but usually there is an order you are either primary, 2nd possibly a 3rd, but there is one person in charge (I definitely felt as if we had too many cooks in the kitchen and we all cooked a different cuisine0. It was a fabulous experience to shoot amongst many fabulous photogs despite our challenges trying to get the shot or trying to execute our own vision. When I'm in charge I have my own vision, when someone else is in charge I usually just go with the flow. With Sonia & Luis, I had so many visions that I just didn't have the time to execute with this many cooks.

No worries though. Later that evening Luis & Sonia had approached me asking if I knew "KrisD Mauga".... ok this was the 1st moment were I heard my name without someone knowing me...but kind of like my name had meaning (funny). I said yes I do, that's me. Sonia says "I told you so" to Luis. Luis then said he had wanted to shoot with me... luckily they had but it was short lived. The only worry I had was their expectations could be much higher from my past work given most of my eSessions are around an 1 hour and I'm the only shooter. So I hope I delivered given the circumstances of our 15 minutes shoot amongst 4 other photogs. It was a fabulous experience; you are a FUN, LOVING couple and the shots I got definitely show your love!

enjoy....

This is my favorite moment and I didn't even pose it... Cakes and Kisses set it up. I love how a real moment was captured (that's always my goal... I think many of their moments were real but this was one just ended being even more real & romantic)!!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Jessica & Garrett | Charity ESession Shoot Out | Malibu Wedding Photographer

2010-05-17T16:37:00.000-07:00

Here is my 2nd couple Jessica & Garrett I had the pleasure to meet and shoot last Tuesday for the Charity Shoot Out hosted by Jen O'Sullivan at the Sunset Restaurant in Malibu. Every couple was so different and so much fun to shoot. For the little time I was able to spend with them I could tell they laugh a lot, they are a tad shy at 1st but able to warm up (since I was the one who shot their first on screen kiss), Jessica likes to tease Garrett and Garrett is very tender with Jessica.

Here was their 1st kiss in front of the camera; they both were giddy and a little embarrassed at the same time.

Giggles galore! It was like they had secret only they knew about. Jessica pointed out Garrett's unique laugh (his head or neck or shoulders kind of bobble...it's hard to describe but was quite endearing). Too much fun with these two!

Their 2nd kiss in the shadows!

Their 3rd kiss on the beach! I think they were definitely warmed by now!

So here you two go, thank you for allowing me to be apart of your engagement photo shoot!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Nicole & Daniel Engaged | Charity Engagement Shoot Out | Malibu Wedding Photographer

2010-05-14T09:21:00.000-07:00

I have been anticipating the day for Jen O'Sullivan's Charity Shoot Out. Due to crazy weather, it had been rescheduled a few weeks ago. The day finally arrived this past Tuesday! The setting was in Malibu at the Sunset Restaurant (they were great accommodating us). Jen is an amazing person to have coordinated such an event while being a full-time photographer, photog mentor, mother and wife. I really admire her ability to juggle so many balls without dropping even one. She is super organized and on top of it ALL! Jen I need to hire you to teach me how you stay organized!!!! She doesn't holdback and shares all of her secrets when it comes to the business of wedding photography! So, thank you Jen for sharing your world with all us photogs.

So now....

Tuesday arrives and I'm excited for the day to start; engagement photography is so much fun! Mia (a photog as well) and Amanda (photog and my assistant of the day) meet me at my house to carpool; it was kind of like a girls' road-trip! We talked, n talked, well Mia and I talked n talked; Amanda kept pretty quiet back there (I think she was texting her boyfriend -don't they call that sexting?). I was lucky to get Amanda to assist me for the day; she was amazing! She is also a photographer just getting into the business (she graduates in 2 weeks so she will finally have the time to focus on her business). She used to intern for my friend Charla (man I wish I could have nabbed her back then). Amanda had my back every step of the way! She went and got me a balloon, I requested last minute, picked up some instant film and kept the flow of couples coming and going without missing a beat. You may think why would I need an assistant, well this day was not an ordinary engagement shoot.

Jen had set up a charity shoot for couples to come and be shot by multiple photogs. This allows them the freedom to work with us first and see which will be a great fit as their wedding photographer. As I said it before this was a Charity event, so they all got many photogs to shoot them for FREE! Where was this event when I got engaged? I don't even think there were digital DSLR's yet... it was film back then...wow I'm old! Anyhow, it was fast paced like speed dating and sometimes a struggle to get the shot if you had more than one photog shooting the same couple at the same time. So having Amanda was imperative for me to get shots I needed. Not only do I need to give her credit and thanks but a little apology as well for being told what to do by other photogs (who must have thought she was a public assistant); thanks Amanda for being such a fab sport!!!!

Now onto the couples...

My first couple was Nicole & Daniel; an absolutely gorgeous couple whom I'm sure have had some experience being shot. They worked so well in front of the camera and more so with each other. Advice to all engaged couples, be in the moment for this is your practice run before the big day! Don't worry about me or any photog, look at each other and forget we are there and you will end up with the most amazing shots!

This shot was steamy!

I love shooting feet/ shoes...thinking of that, many photogs seem to love shooting feet n shoes!

This was just awesome...Daniel looked into Nicole's eyes and swept the hair from her face... a real moment caught- this is what makes amazing photos!

This was yet another candid moment. The wind was challenging that day, but it really made for some great real moments of laughter! Daniel was struggling with this GIANT balloon we had brought for the shoot.... it was too funny!

And here is the infamous balloon!!!! This is what you get for $9!!! WOW!

More couples to come, so come back on Sunday and see couple number 2!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Celeb Style Portrait | Long Beach Artistic Photographer | KrashingMotions

2010-05-12T22:57:00.000-07:00

Last Fall I was hired to shoot Jen for portrait/head-shots shots just for fun, we recently found the time between both our schedules to commit and shoot. Little did I know how photogenic she is! To capture a moment in time especially when you are this beautiful is truly amazing! Don't we all wish to have a moment when we felt the most fabulous caught artistically, vibrantly, & fabulously at our prime?! It's an opportunity in life, we really shouldn't overlook; a moment we should embrace!

So people of all ages all genders, embrace this time in you life and document it how ever you seem necessary; it's a moment in life to pass on to our children & to generations of family!

Her eyes are so clear, so intriguing!!!!

Her laugh was infectious! She made it slightly difficult to shoot, because I kept laughing with her!

This was me just being quirky; I really wanted to shoot a replica within a replica!

I think it looks awesome.. I just might get a canvas wrap for my own home!

It's amazing how she can carry a look of more than just one person; if I didn't know better I would think there 2-3 gorgeous girls in this shoot!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Grand Prix, Auld Dubliner & Avia | Long Beach City Events | Long Beach Photographer

2010-05-10T21:58:00.001-07:00

Every year my husband and I get sucked into the sounds of the revving motors of the Indy & Drift cars at the Long Beach Grand Prix. It's an event we really love and love to share with friends and family. It's especially fun when we have race virgins! This year we brought new frinds Andy, Andy and Nina.

A special thanks to our friend Eric owner of the Auld Dubliner who again for a 2nd year helped us out with tickets; he is such a sweet guy. Of course we made a run to the pub to thank him in person and enjoy some spirits to celebrate the day. If you have never checked out the Auld Dubliner, please make sure to stop by there for a Guinness or some Irish spirits. This place is adorned with authentic irish antiques and trinkets. The boys of the Dubliner spent much and effort creating a unique and authentic atmosphere. They have quickly grown in 6 years from 1-10 establishments, so I know they are doing it right!

Anyhow, our day of racing adventure shortly turned into a Vegas feel in the LBC! We had such a great time partying it up firt at the DUB then at Avia! They have an amazing roof-top pool that on occasion host fabulous parties! A day party.... actually Rock-Star party on a roof-top pool area with kick-ass music definitely feels like Vegas! Thank G it can't last all night! It was actually perfect! We celebrated, shot pictures, met great people, danced, drank a tad too much and left just at sunset.... yes sunset not sunrise (see NOT Vegas)!!!!

So here's to memory to blog down and remember!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Intimate Moments | boudoir Blog | KrashingMotions

2010-05-01T20:36:00.000-07:00

So this is crazy, it's been over a year since I have shot a boudoir session! Time has just rushed by and my photography has been more focused on engagement sessions & weddings. I love shooting couples; there is so much emotion, intensity, and beauty! Me being so wrapped up in this part of my photography left me oblivious to the fact that I haven't shot a boudoir session!

Really I love them ALL! I love sessions that evoke emotion, love, intimacy, and empowerment!

This is why I love couples and now after shooting a boudoir session again, I realize this type of session lends these same moments and emotions as well!

After my 1st 2010 Boudoir Session, I noticed my Intimate Moments Blog needed a facelift, so I looked into some help from HOT Bliggity Blog! Casey, the designer and owner, rocked! She's had my site up and running in less than 12 hours! So check out my new digs and 1st session of 2010 @ http://kmintimatemoments.com

This is a boudoir blog, so keep the lil ones away...

oh and the pervy ones too!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Megan Gray of Honey & Poppies | Floral Designer | Long Beach Wedding Collective

2010-04-19T20:13:00.000-07:00

This is Megan Gray, owner and floral stylist guru of Honey and Poppies and co-founder of Long Beach Wedding Collective and self proclaimed flowerholic.

Megan has been working in the industry practically her entire life. Her parents owned their own floral shop called Rainbows for over 29 years. I guess you can say it's in her blood and she was destined to do this for a living. Like many of us, we try to leave the shadows of our parents and go out on our own seaching for our future's path to destiny. Well, Megan did the same and it led her back to where she started. She realized her fate was her passion and her future. So here we have Honey and Poppies, one of Southern California's top elite floral companies.

Megan is a true artist and her visions are bountiful.

Lucky for me she found me on the web last November and invited me to be apart of this amazing group of uber talented vendors of the Long Beach Wedding Collective. I love our group; Megan's vision along with co-founder Candice Bradley of bringing fabulous vendors has come to fruition. I'm thrilled to have met so many fun, vibrant, talented people and to consider them friends.

Megan and I have become fast friends since meeting at our 1st gathering in December. She comes across as soft spoken, possibly shy and of course very sweet, but under her soft exterior lies a witty, classy, sassy, spitfire of a gal who chooses her words wisely; she seriously cracks me up! She's a gal full of surprises; you never know what's up her sleeve. Little did I know how photogenic she was either; she blew me away when we met for a 15 minute shoot. Check out the talented Miss Sassy Classy~ Megan Gray!

Donovan Headshots | Long Beach Photographer

2010-04-19T16:24:00.000-07:00

My sis-in-law Noelle hired me to shoot headshots of my adorable nephew Donovan. Donovan is only 9 mos older than Kruiz but has the stature of 7 year old. He is a strong 5 year old who is doing amazing in Tae Kwon Do and football already! Besides being a natural athlete, he is full of personality. A possible acting career in his future. Hence why we are doing headshots. He has the look, personality and spirit to be on TV. So keep your eyes out and wish him luck when he has his 1st audition!!!! I would just love to see him on TV, luckily he has an amzing mommy to keep him on the right track if he ever gets famous.

He's so stylin'!

I love his hair- it's so retro!

The backlighting through his hair just takes me back to the 70's- luv it!

Can he have anymore expressions? Wow- what a doll!!!!

Sweet rewards in due time! He was so good for our shoot, we rewarded him with some delicious chocolate ice cream!

Contact KrisD Mauga | View KrashingMotions Gallery | Book Me

Charla Blue | Headshot Exchange | Long Beach Wedding Photographer

2010-04-19T14:43:00.000-07:00

I have been in need of some pro headshots. I seem to be the one always taking the photos of course, but I'm rarely in the shots even we are just having fun. Luckily for me my best friend is a professional photographer as well. She and I have each others back when it comes to our daughter's B-Days, family sessions, and headshots whew!

I'm so glad we found the time to do a headshot exchange! She was awesome! She is so photogenic! I love shooting her! We took turns intermittently. I think it helped us both warm up to the camera. Remember, we are usually behind the lens not in front of it. It was awkward having ourselves shot. Even though she said she felt uncomfortable, she was an absolute natural. Your photos were so beautiful that it even inspired me to create a few sets of lightroom presets inspired by her style and color of Charla Blue.

Thanks Charla for being my friend, for your advice on business, for your inspiration of the amazing images you take, for your take on life. You are an amazing person!

Love you!