To have a happy and successful marriage, you need to be in rhythm with one another. For Phil and Alison, they take being in rhythm quite literally as both are professional musicians, with Alison being a harpist and Phil playing the French horn. Having the opportunity to photograph their engagement photo session was definitely music to my ears.
With the wedding set for December 5, I met up with Phil and Alison at the historic Villa Del Sol in downtown Fullerton located in the Northern part of Orange County to start their photoshoot before heading out to some surrounding areas. It was such a beautiful day for these two gentile spirits to come together to take photos and to reflect on their relationship.
Alison’s Viewpoint…
Q: How did you first meet Phil and describe to us your thoughts upon that first meeting. For example, was he goofy, weird, prince charming, etc?
A: Phil remembers meeting me when I first moved to Los Angeles at a recording session for a film. I was the new girl and was pretty overwhelmed that day, so I actually don’t remember that meeting. But, over the years we would chat on break at the Pasadena Pops each summer. He struck me as someone who had a great love of family, a strong set of morals and a strong, good heart.
Q: What is something that you find totally cute about Phil?
A: Everything! He is incredibly thoughtful and I just love his thoughtful face. I could look at it for hours!!!
Q: Tell us the proposal story? How did it all unfold and were you surprised?
A: We had talked about marriage, so the proposal wasn’t a surprise. In fact, we went to pick out rings ahead of time. We went to a little mom and pop jewelry shop and as we were talking to the owner, he was very interested in my job as a harpist. We were going to reset my grandmother’s diamond and the jeweler surprised us by saying, “If she will play the harp at my store anniversary for 4 hours tomorrow, I will set this ring for you for free.” So, I knew exactly what was coming my way when he proposed.
As for the proposal itself, the house I was renting was suddenly no longer available and I needed to move out. Phil and I decided it would work to move in together last December because we knew we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together. On a chilly December night, we celebrated the final box being unpacked by going out to sushi, and then we stopped by Pasadena City Hall to look at the Christmas tree. Phil had thrown his back out moving all of my heavy stuff, so he couldn’t get down on one knee but he said, “There is still one little box to unpack” and pulled out the ring box.
Q: As you plan your wedding, what has this experience been like? What’s your advice to others as they plan their wedding?
A: To be honest, the experience has been pretty stressful. I am really really looking forward to being married to Phil. Right now, the actual wedding is pretty overwhelming. It has been a lot to juggle budget and planning along with being my own boss in the music business. I’m not sure I have any advice as of yet. I might in a few months once it is over!!
Q: If Phil were an animal, what would he be and why?
A: This is tough! He is incredibly steadfast, strong-willed, intelligent, dedicated, thoughtful, but also sweet and funny. I don’t think any animal can compare to that!
Phil’s Viewpoint…
Q: Describe Alison in one word and why did you choose that word?
A: Easy. Some relationships are just difficult to get going, difficult to maintain, difficult to get out of, and difficult to be yourself. With Alison, it’s been an easy relationship and transition.
Q: Tell us about your first date, what did you do, and were you nervous?
A: Our first date was lunch at a Mexican restaurant. Even though I had casually known her for several years prior, I was still very nervous.
Q: Was Alison surprised when you proposed and why did you choose to propose the way you did?
A: Alison was surprised at my proposal. We had already gotten the ring so she knew it would come, she just didn’t think it would be then. I chose that location because we had performed together there on a couple of occasions and it is a beautiful place, especially with the Christmas tree there.
Q: Looking towards the future, what do you most look forward to doing with Alison?
A: Every day is a good day with Alison. There’s always a new interest and new goal, but never pressure to do anything. As I said earlier, it’s easy and I look forward to where easy takes us.
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About the Author:
Jerrick O’Connor is the owner of Three16 Photography and has 15 years of experience in the world of photography. He specializes in Weddings, Engagements, Family and Corporate photography and loves connecting small business owners with other small business owners in hopes they can benefit each other’s production. When he’s not working, you can find him spending time with his wife Josie, playing board games or just spending time with his many friends.
