Leslie

Though she had dreamt of working in the wedding industry since the age of 12, Leslie’s first introduction to weddings came as an event planner. After spending several years helping couples curate their big days, she grew an appreciation for photography as a way to preserve all of the details from the wedding day. Born and raised in the Bay Area, love brought Leslie to Santa Barbara, where she currently lives with her husband and daughter. A heart for romance and a firm believer in continuing to date your partner, she and her husband enjoy a standing date night every Tuesday. When she doesn’t have a camera in hand, you’ll find her enjoying a picnic on the beach with her family or cheering on her beloved Golden State Warriors. 

WHAT IS YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSION? 

A bracelet with tiny elephant charms that my mother gave me on my 21st birthday. When I was growing up, she had a collection of elephant figurines throughout our house, so they’ve always represented family to me. 

WHAT FICTIONAL CHARACTER DO YOU MOST IDENTIFY WITH?

Olivia Pope from Scandal is the first to come to mind! A strong, independent woman who’s fiercely protective of the people she loves and who’s devoted to doing what’s right… I like to think we share those traits!

WHERE ARE YOUR FAVORITE Santa barbara HANGOUTS/SECRET SPOTS? 

We’re spoiled with good Mexican food in Santa Barbara, but Los Agaves is my absolute favorite! Literally everything there is delicious, but the steak nachos are my jam. I also love grabbing Spanish tapas and a gin + tonic at Loquita (my #1 date night recommendation!) 

what is your idea of perfect happiness?

I’m imagining a lazy Sunday morning, being gently woken up by the scent of fresh waffles. A breakfast tray with a few tulip stems and my Kindle. The freedom to enjoy an unhurried meal and devour a good book, set to the soft soundtrack of my husband and daughter playing and laughing in the next room.

Go-tos

BOOKS

I seek out reading time any chance I get! I love learning about new perspectives, and most often find myself reaching for biographies or books about behavioral economics.

yogurt pretzels

My favorite treat, they are perfect blend of sweet and salty. Give me a bag of these and we’ll be friends forever.

THANK YOU CARDS

Words of affirmation is my love language. I love both giving and getting hand-written cards, and I keep a collection of all the cards I’ve received over the years.

WRAPPING PAPER

My very first job was working as a gift wrapper. I still love carefully creasing each fold and making the exterior of a present just as exciting as the contents of the box.

AVOCADOS

early 2000's Music

I’ll find a way to put avocados on whatever I’m eating. I’m grateful that my husband’s family owns an avocado orchard so I can have a near-endless supply.

The music from my formative years will always have a soft spot in my heart. And yes, I still know the choreography from the “Bye Bye Bye” music video.