Next week is my (and my husband’s) wedding anniversary. And I realize that I probably talk about him (the Husband) a lot in my blogs- but for good reason. He’s my best friend. My buddy. My partner and the love of my life. And we’ve been through a lot together. Eight years married, thirteen together, and the thing is: marriage isn’t easy. It’s damn hard, actually. It’s not even a thing- not a noun, not a singular idea, not defined in cutesy quotes or song lyrics or in words at all really. It’s a constant evolution of who you both are, where you’ve been, and what you’re becoming, day in and day out. It’s a connection that no one- NO ONE- on the outside will ever grasp: the depth and complexities of a relationship that make it your own. A relationship that comforts you when you need it, saves you when you need it, and pushes you when you need it- in a way that nobody else can. I love him. And that’s the beginning and end of everything else.
A few weeks ago, I photographed Savannah and Ryan’s wedding up at Amicalola Falls in the North Georgia mountains. It was- of course- beautiful. I’ve had some incredible opportunities to shoot many beautiful weddings throughout the past year, but this time, there was just something about being home. Tucked away in the mountains, with no cell phone signal but pumpkins and apple butter and just… the sweet kind of Southern wedding that only happens here, at home.
But the best part- better than that apple butter AND the red velvet cake- was Savannah and Ryan. I still remember my own wedding day and how things like centerpieces and seating arrangements have the potential to make you lose sleep at night- but how, in the end, that advice from your mom is true- it’s completely- and only- about the love. And that really is the beginning and end of everything.
Before Savannah and her bridesmaids made their way downstairs to, you know, get her all married, they prayed. Now I’ll be honest. As a photographer, my job is to capture the day as it unfolds around me- but during a moment like that- intimate and private and more honest than any camera can EVER capture- I always wonder if I’m in the way. And when Savannah, during her prayers, gave thanks for me and my second shooter Mishaun… for our presence on the most important day of her life… well, it was awesomely humbling. It literally gave me chills, speaking volumes about Savannah and her character. And it reminded me- as I’m often reminded in the most unexpected moments- why I love doing this. It’s because of love. I get to be there with people- in moments like this: private, honest moments that people want to carry with them forever. And I get to make that happen. WHAT? Seriously? This is my job? I LOVE THIS STUFF.
Savannah and Ryan- much love and congratulations. You get to have your best friend- your buddy, your partner, the love of your life- beside you for the adventure ahead of you. Nothing is more awesome than that. Thank you… so very much. You. Are. Awesome.
