Gravenor Wedding

I am not going to lie, Kirsten and Stephan's wedding plans concerned me. They wanted me to work my light and airy magic in December. I loved this couple and I was very upfront about what limits we might have and how comfortable they would be going outdoors.

They still booked. I thought about it throughout the year, "oh yeah December.. I hope that goes ok" I knew I would get good images for them, I will never not deliver, but I just care so much about what my couple's experience is and making sure I get them the very best images to remember their day. So, believe me I knew I would, but I still worried. Especially because the weather seemed to be dropping so fast this past fall!

To my surprise though, it was kinda warm. However, it was raining and miserable. But, I worried already and it was show time so we did the thang.

Kirsten and Stephan were such a pleasure to get to know through out the whole process of engagement and wedding day. I truly felt the love that they shared. They had and I am sure still have excellent chemistry. Their families were beautiful and kind. It is so nice coming to work in a room just full of love and passion.

The beautiful plans and touches throughout the day you could tell that these two put so much thought into making this day about them and making it special.

They gifted each other wedding rings that they did not get to see until the ceremony.. so I got to be the first one to see them both together during bridal details. (I actually didn't know about the special rings until Kirsten told me later)

Also this couple did NOT want to do a first look. They wanted that special moment when they see one another for the first time. And on this wedding I am SOO SOO glad they did that! Stephan's reaction was like something out of a movie. I absolutely got chocked up about it! Also, side note, first looks are certainly beneficial but I always respect and encourage couples to do what they envision. Also, I don't blame Stephan for breaking down. Kirsten is beautiful, but she transformed into this magazine worthy bride with very little effort. My jaw even dropped when I saw her for the first time that day.

Their ceremony didn't stop there on the amazing. There was also incredible written vows and a bottle of wine with letters to one another they locked away for their 10th anniversary. As someone who has been married 10 years I wish I had thought of something so needed at that 10 year mark. You really can forget that passionate love you experience on your wedding day.

Kirsten and Stephan also wanted to try the reverse angle for the first kiss. I was a nervous wreck over this idea, but also I was so excited! I practiced how to ensure the transition to behind them was smooth with their officiant and it went off PERFECTLY!! And the awesome shot of them coming up the aisle after was just a bonus because I hadn't even thought where my location would be after they were married and exiting!

But then it was time for portraits. I asked the bridal party if they minded going outside for a few so I could see what I could achieve. Then just as we were finishing up.. THE SKIES OPENED and the sunset was absolutely AMAZING. I was beside myself. We made absolute MAGIC out there! I didn't want it to ever end. I had this beautiful couple with amazing energy and this unbelievable sky. They definitely thought I was out of my mind.. I was FREAKING out!

Their reception was such a blast! This couple and their guests knew how to party! We had a blast!

Kirsten and Stephan you two, your story, and your day will stay with me because it was just that beautiful in so many ways. I wish you many years of happiness and I hope that I one day get to document your lives again. I hope you treasure these photos and each other for the rest of your lives!