I don’t even have words to express how near and dear this wedding is to my heart.

Sam is my very best friend. She asked me to be her matron of honor as well as photograph her wedding. Normally I don’t recommend trying to take on both things but since Sean (my husband) and I always shoot together and I know there would be a few other photographers in the bridal party, we figured it would work out. I would shoot the getting ready for the most part, the details and all of the bride & grooms portraits and Sean would cover the Ceremony and formals… and we’d tag team the reception. The crazy thing about this… is it worked! Seamlessly, actually. I had a lot of help from everyone and I’m so thankful. First and foremost to Sean who was super dad… did I mention our two little ones were IN the wedding, and of course to Paloma and Jenna for manning the camera when I couldn’t. There are so many other thank you’s but I would literally be here all night typing that up. You know who you are. THANK YOU.

It was funny… well not “haha” funny but just interesting… I was fine taking Sam’s engagement photos and totally didn’t cry once! That is a really big deal if you know me! But on the day of the wedding, when she was getting her make up put on, I looked at my LCD screen on the camera and thought how beautiful she looked and then it hit me, that it wasn’t just a beautiful bride… it was Sam. It was my  best friend and I got to be here sharing the moment AND document it. I can’t explain the rush of joy and emotion I felt. That’s when I lost it. I sobbed. Full on ugly cry sob. I was just so happy for her. Sam deserves the world and she found that in Dallas.

The day was perfect beyond and was full of laugher, love and true support.

Venue: Hidden Oaks: Private Weddings & Events 

 

 

Now for some photos!

This is when I started crying. :-)

This beautiful garter was made by Kristina of  Bitty Baby Bands. She is amazing and makes tons of custom pieces!

I love Sam’s ring!

It’s so strange to post a photo of myself in here! Thank you to Paloma who took this!

These photos are why I always want my couples to do a first look. This is perhaps one of my favorite parts at weddings. It’s so sweet and intimate.

Dallas literally gasped when he saw her. I mean, who could blame him?

Dallas and his beautiful mom.

I realize I’m biased… but isn’t Jude a total stud? I love my little guy!

Here comes the bride…

I cannot express how much I love the look on the groom’s face as he sees his beautiful bride walk toward him.

Sam, you look so full of joy!

I adore this ceremony site that Hidden Oaks has… so rustic and awesome!

Because of their love for coffee: her to Starbucks and him to Coffee Bean – they opted to make a unity coffee. Favorite!

I can’t even explain this. But if you didn’t see it first hand, you are missing out on one of the best things one could ever witness at a wedding. That’s all I’m saying.

And after shooting SO many weddings you would think I would know better and not exit the ceremony like this. Also, I lost my shoe. I was just totally winning.

I love every single one of the girls SO much.

Best bridal party. Ever.

This wasn’t posed… she was just standing there, looking off into the distance like that. Work it.

The perfect couple.

My best friend is gorgeous.

Naturally.

You two. The best.

Sam you are seriously the most stunning bride!

Dallas’ mom made this beautiful cake… also it tasted amazing. One of the best cakes I’d ever had… and I have a LOT of cake. ;-)

Sam and Dallas had super creative table names… they were all things that were important to them. Sam may or may not have had a Starbucks table. ;-)

Some first dance sweetness.

There was a nice tribute to Ramona!

Nothing like getting pegged by birdseed for your exit. :-)