The first wedding of the Summer came on June 17th. Nearly a year before, my friend Kathleen reached out to me and asked if I was available to shoot her friends wedding. I was thrilled and agreed. Soon after, I met Courtney and Allan for the first time to shoot their engagement photos. I remember being relieved that they were such an easy couple to work with and that they were so crazy about each other. 

A few weeks before the wedding, I asked Thomas Finch to assist me. Day of, we arrived at Wildwood Country Club to a nervous but excited bride. The next few hours were full laughter and silliness, as the girls had their hair and make up done. Thomas left us to photograph Allan and his grooms people getting ready.

I always love being there to document the bride getting ready with her very best friends, her close family, and in this case, her daughter to be. I find that I get to know a lot about the bride and the wedding party here. Inside jokes fly about, mingled with the laughter and endless chatter. It's a beautiful part of the day.

Once everyone was done up, the bridesmaids and mothers got their dresses on before helping the bride into hers. Kathleen and the other bridesmaids then helped her put on her jewelry, shoes and garter.

After everyone was ready, we went downstairs for Courtney and her son to have their first look. This was a very special photography moment. First looks are common, but first looks with the bride's son are a little more rare, and so very precious. 

The rest of the evening was a whirlwind of "I do"s and laughter, food and dancing. It was a joy to share this day with Courtney and Allan, as well as their family and friends. I took a big step as a lead photographer at this one, learning more about being in charge and taking control, particularly during the formal photos. I'm grateful, not only for the opportunity to shoot this wedding, but for the friendships I gained in the process.