David + Devon // Seattle

It was the perfect day. The temperature was just right. The sky was bright blue with big puffy clouds. It was the day they had been counting down to since November, July 15th, 2016...the day they would finally become husband and wife. 

As I mentioned in their engagement blog post, I've known Devon since she was a teen and it has been an honor and privilege to see her grow into the mature woman she has become. 

Everything about their day was so incredibly special. The excitement was palpable leading up to their first look and when they finally got to see each other.....I could hardly hold back the tears myself as they took in a few moments to themselves before they were to commit the rest of their lives to each other before God, friends and family. 

Devon and David are two incredibly special people who are being used powerfully by God to do great work and I am confident that their union as husband and wife is only the beginning of everything God has planned for them. 

I am so honored they chose me to capture the beginning of their story and I love the memories and moments that Paul and I were able to document for them and their family. My absolute favorite moment was their hug in the room in the back right before they signed their certificate, when it had all sunk in...they were finally husband and wife!!!

My second favorite moment was when they noticed the framed photo on their table at the reception. Devons mom got them the frame a while back and she and I planned on getting them a photo from their portrait session in the frame that same day. It was tough, but we did it, and the looks on both of their faces was priceless when they realized what it was. 

Devon, I love you and have so enjoyed watching you grow up and become the woman you are. David, it is a pleasure to now know you better and understand why it is that Devon loves you so much. Enjoy these images and your gallery will be coming soon! 

Ashley + Steven // The Thayer Hotel, West Point

When we moved to NJ, I don't think I really realized just how close we would be to West Point. Even though Paul didn't go to West Point, he is still in the Army and so West Point remains a place that we obviously have ties to. We took a tour back in September of last year and thoroughly enjoyed the history and elegance of the campus. I knew right then and there that I wanted to shoot a wedding at West Point at least ONCE during our time living here. 

Thanks to Laura, that goal has now been achieved! I am 2nd shooting a LOT for Laura this year. Probably around 10+ times or so and when she sent me her list and I saw one of the weddings was at West Point, I instantly grabbed that one! I was looking forward to it all year long!

It was an absolutely perfect day. Everything took place at The Thayer Hotel including bride and groom getting ready, the first look, ceremony, portraits and reception. Its so nice when its all contained because you get to concentrate more on the actual photography rather than gathering up gear and driving all around, finding parking etc.. 

Laura and I shot some details together in the lobby and then I headed up to the room with the guys to get some getting ready photos. We met outside for the first look and thats when the emotions really kicked in. Steven was overwhelmed with excitement and nervousness to see his beautiful bride and Ashley's reaction when he turned around was one of my favorites I have ever seen. 

Both of their families were fun and gracious and kind. The bridal party was spirited and the family element was strong. It was an intimate wedding with a little less than 100 guests, but they still knew how to party. It was an amazing and fun day for all involved and a beautiful union between Ashley and Steven!

Go check out more of the day on Laura's blog post HERE!