100 Brides Later...

Saturday, I photographed my 100th wedding. I began my business in 2006 so that is averaging about 14+ weddings a year. At my peak, Eric and I photographed 22 weddings a year. Last year we did 12 and this year we are cutting down to just 8. I am so blessed to be able to work with my best friend and husband as my second shooter. I can't imagine not having him by my side. He keeps me calm, hydrated, and makes sure I go potty at least once during the day. (Sometimes, I just am so focused, I forget!) We make a great team. The clients I serve are amazing in so many ways. They trust me fully to capture their wedding day through my lens and they allow me to really "get in their business". I've bustled dresses, explained how to gently lock lips, nuzzle noses, and dip kiss. I've pinned on flowers, dried tears, prayed with nervous brides, held hands, held chewed gum and used tissues, and gave advice on fashion (gasp, it's true...even low maintenance women like myself know a few things ;) I've walked through mud, poison ivy and rivers. I've climbed onto things and jumped off of things, laid on the ground, and been in places I probably couldn't get into again...all in the name of getting a good shot. I've cried countless tears behind my camera for various reasons when emotion swept over me. I've laughed watching guests cut a rug on the dance floor, heard amazing toasts, and eaten incredible food. I've crossed over Pennsylvania borders to California, New York, and Maryland to capture weddings. And I have NO REGRETS! It has been an incredible journey over the past 7 years and I am looking forward to whatever lies ahead. Today, I am thanking the LORD for allowing me to reach this milestone. He has given me courage to step out in faith and trust Him to connect me to every single bride and groom that I was to be connected with. I remember each wedding day, each couple's love story, each time someone was brave enough to book Eric and I to capture their wedding day. I am humbled. So here is to the last 100 brides, and all those yet to come...

Jake & Selena: Married

They couldn't have picked a more beautiful spot. These two got married on the farm where Selena's parents live. Perfect weather, gorgeous couple, and we were in the zone. I absolutely love photographing outdoor weddings! It was a wonderful celebration of Jake & Selena becoming one. Her grandpa married them, siblings were all in the wedding party, and I wept (of course) during the father/daughter dance as I watched Selena's dad come undone twirling his little girl around. Jake and his mom danced to Taylor Swift's song "Never Grow Up" which I had never heard. I literally had to turn away because my face was wet with tears and I couldn't stop thinking about my two boys and the fact that some day, if they want me to, I will dance with each of them at their weddings. I came home, downloaded the song and have been singing it to them almost daily. I sure am a sap! Jake & Selena, I wish you all the best as you begin your adventure of life long love together. I know the LORD will lead you each step of the way wherever He plants your feet. It was an honor to share in your wedding day. Enjoy some highlights from our perspective...