The Journal

Destination wedding inspiration, planning resources, and heartfelt celebrations along the West Coast + Arizona.

Whether you're searching for venue inspiration, thoughtful planning advice, or real wedding stories, you'll find a collection of experiences designed to help you dream, prepare, and feel excited for the journey ahead.

Bride and groom standing close together on a balcony, holding hands, looking into each other's eyes, with greenery and rooftops in the background.

Explore

Step inside heartfelt celebrations filled with genuine moments, intentional details, and timeless imagery from weddings across Oregon, Washington, California, Arizona, and destination celebrations beyond.
Thoughtful resources designed to help you navigate timelines, prepare for your destination wedding, and feel confident every step of the way.
From coastal escapes to mountain retreats and iconic wedding destinations around the world, experience inspiration, travel tips, and expert advice for planning your celebration.
A collection of engagement sessions, anniversary celebrations, personal reflections, and the little moments that remind us why love stories deserve to be preserved.

Blog | Val Photo Co | Destination Wedding Photographer

5 Honest reasons why I require my couples to have a Wedding Planner

On the fence about hiring a wedding planner for your wedding day? This blog will help you understand the importance - recommendations included!

Wedding at Del Mar Villa

With its Tuscan-inspired architecture, lush gardens, and panoramic views, the venue exudes a romantic atmosphere that’s both luxurious and inviting.

Managing Wedding Day Stress: 5 Tips for a Stress-Free Celebration

5 tips for managing wedding day stress!

The Ultimate Guide for Newly Engaged Couples

The ultimate guide to being newly engaged - In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of finding a wedding planner, calculating your wedding budget, and a 5-step plan to help you get organized and start the planning process with ease!

Valerie Lindahl 7/24/23 Valerie Lindahl 7/24/23

How to Prepare for Your Engagement Photoshoot

10 Essential tips on how to prepare for your engagement photoshoot and enjoy your session.

Valerie Lindahl 7/22/23 Valerie Lindahl 7/22/23

Capturing Love and Equality: LGBTQIA+ Friendly Wedding Photographer

Love is love, and it knows no bounds. In the modern world, as we embrace diversity and strive for equality, it becomes crucial to celebrate love in all its forms. For couples belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community, your love stories are just as beautiful and valid as anyone else's.

Valerie Lindahl 7/19/23 Valerie Lindahl 7/19/23

5 Reasons Why Hawaii is the Perfect Place for Your Destination Wedding (FULL GUIDE)

Curious about hosting a Destination Wedding in Hawaii? Check out this FULL GUIDE that covers everything you need to know about having a destination wedding in Hawaii.