When Cory and I sat down to write this blog, we struggled with where to begin. I wanted to jump straight to my favorite moment between Ashley and her dad. Cory on the other hand, couldn’t stop saying what a remarkable group of people both Ashley and Brian, and their entire family are. Because truly, we were in awe of how amazing these guys were. The guests kept coming up to us and complimenting our smiles (which is crazy rare y’all.) While the bridal party were such troopers, going along from start to finish with singing (yes singing, here’s looking to you groomsmen) and some awesome “fake walking” we came away from this rustic winter wedding wishing that we lived closer, because we concluded we’d be best friends with everyone haha.

But to be honest I wasn’t at all surprised that this day was one of my favorite weddings of all time. And it all started last summer. I was having a bad day. Actually it was more like a bad couple of weeks. I had posted a little blurb about being emotionally exhausted on Facebook, not expecting to get any response. A few hours later I opened my inbox to see a unexpected but heartfelt gift. It was from Ashley. It was an e-card from Starbucks (my favorite treat on the planet) and she sent this to me, hoping to bring some joy into my life and to let me know that she appreciated me. That act of kindness is So. Incredibly. Rare. But that’s Ashley to a T. And Brian? Made from the same cloth. Also, Brian loves Harry Potter, so that makes him the best of the best in my book!!!

My favorite part of the day was the moment Ashley’s dad turned around and looked upon his daughter, now a bride, for the first time. Amidst the sun filtered the whispering pines, there were a few trickled drops running down the chicks of both parties. He held her tight, the fingers that he had been nervously wringing just minutes ago, wrapped warmly around her shoulders. He lost his breath. Words barely came, for they would never be enough. In the background, Susan, Ashley’s mom, cried soft tears as she watches the two loves of her life embrace for the last time, before walking Ashley down the aisle. Ashley later told me, it was the first time she had ever seen her dad cry. Ever.

This is why we do what we do. Why we became wedding photographers, to be keepers of memories that should never be forgotten. To Ashley and Brian: I knew this day would be wonderful. But truly, it was beyond magical. Every moment was infused with your personalities, your laughter, the groomsmen singing, and such joy that Cory and I walked away, feeling more in love with each other, simply from being inspired by you. Please do not ever change. You have been a miracle in my life. And I will give gratitude every day for being apart of your wedding with you. Also, this one is for you Brian, we totally watched Harry Potter when we got home… movie one and two. And maybe the third after that. We love you guys!!!

Wedding Photographer: Lux Light Photography  |  Ceremony Location: Camp Firefly, Homestead Resort |  Reception Location: Mountainflowers Lodge, Homestead Resort |  Florist:  Blossom Shop |   Cake/Desserts: friend |  DJ: Mike Staff Productions |  Invitation:  Elegant Wedding Invites  |  Wedding Gown: A’doraBelle Bridal |  Tux: Men’s Wearhouse |  Rentals: Traverse City Wedding and Party Rentals |  Hair & Makeup: Lillyjade Salon  |  Rings: Lucido Fine Jewelry – Ritani