I have rewritten this sentence so many times, trying to find the right words to express how I feel. Ally and Jon’s wedding was a special one for me…probably because with all the couples that I have had the privilege of documenting on their wedding day, I have witnessed Ally grow up in a way that brings me so near to the experience of being a father myself. Knowing Ally’s family for the past decade has given our family a front row seat for witnessing the Smith kids grow and mature before our eyes. Watching her dad Kevin walk Ally down the aisle gave me a powerful glimpse of what my future might possibly hold, if either of my dear girls ever choose to get married.
Sometimes you just have to dance in the rain. I know, I know…cliche saying for sure. BUT! Sometimes I think it really is true, and we just have to take what we are given and still get groovy amid the clouds, and the rain, and the cold. This past Saturday began with clear blue skies and ended with a down pour…and the fact that Stephanie and Sasha’s photos pay tribute to that is a testament to their willingness to stop at nothing to enjoy their wedding day to the fullest!
It feels like every year I remember all over again why autumn is such a stunning and inspiring season. It is days like this past Saturday that remind me of the beauty that can be found in the shortening of days, changing colors, and crisp, clear air. Melissa and Tyler’s wedding was amid those seasonal changes, on the banks of the Grand river, in perfect fall fashion.
It was several years ago that I first met Tori. She just happened to be a guest a wedding I was photographing as her sister was in the wedding party. And even though that was eight years ago, Tori still sought me out and asked me to document the celebration!
It is not hard to love Jackie and Matt. Everything about them as individuals and as a couple welcomes you in with open arms and honest smiles. Being in the spotlight was certainly not Matt’s favorite thing, and yet he endured the photos and attention with authentic happiness…and I credit that to the fact that he kept his eyes squarely fixed on the woman that he loved. The two were in it, 100%..and it was awesome to witness.
I have found that it is a key element to quality, honest, and captivating work as wedding photography - the element of trust. When a couple offers it to you as an artist, the canvas is blank you are given the chance to create in the midst of realtime moments of lasting emotional impact and gravity. All the more, that trust is a profound gift when the bride herself is an artist.
