This last weekend I got to photograph a sweet friends elopement surrounded by her best friends and family. I’ve photographed over 100 weddings and I’ve never walked into one and been completely overwhelmed with emotions. Olivia and Jonathan didn’t spruce up their wedding as an “event”, but rather enjoyed every second of getting ready and prepping in a stress free, loving environment. Their guest count didn’t exceed 50 people, and it was magical. Family flew in from all around the United States and you could tell it meant the world to these two newlyweds.
Olivia and Jonathan, both new to Austin, met at their church. And while it wasn’t “love at first sight”, they make up for it now with a new kind of adoration. They appreciate each other for who they are, and cherish each other as their partner.
Olivia and I used to work together, and when she asked me if I would photograph their special day, I was honored. I felt an unusual weight of responsibility as I drove up to their rental house where the ceremony was set to take place. I knew she had family in town that she doesn’t get to see often, some not in good health, and I was chosen to capture their time together. No joke, this thought brings me to tears. Someone trusts me enough to photograph such a monumentous time in their lives. One they will treasure for the rest of their lives. Photos they will go through countless times over the next 40 years. I feel so incredibly grateful to be trusted and chosen.
Jonathan, Olivia, I wish you both the best in your journey together. It will be challenging, stressful, and involve a lot of changes. But you will have the best, most gratifying, and joyful experiences together. Happy two day anniversary, you’re MARRIED!
